The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2022

THE KING AND I

by Steve Williams

As a second generation African-Caribbean who is proud to say he was born in Wal sall, Birmingham, where grow ing up was very different than it is now in terms of integration, equal opportunity and the un derstanding of diversity.

Like America when Obama be came the first black President of the United States, it was a first and a groundbreaking experience for people of all cultures. Never would I have thought that here in the UK, we would be celebrating a Prime Minister from a South Asian background.

This leads me on to how Britain as a whole has developed over the

years, and whether we like it or not, there is a greater understand ing of diversity amongst the ma jority of British people.

This saw Rishi Sunak officially becoming the new UK prime min ister, after meeting King Charles III at Buckingham Palace, follow ing HRH’s meeting with the out going prime minister, Liz Truss.

Mr Sunak met the King in the 1844 room - often dubbed the most important room in the Pal ace - after which, he became the UK's 57th prime minister during a ceremonial rubber-stamping act, known as “kissing hands.”

He entered Downing Street as the youngest PM in two centuries and the second Prime Minister of The King’s reign.

After King Charles welcomed the Prime Minister during an audi ence at Buckingham Palace – and official photographs - the meeting was then private, setting a pattern for the confidential weekly audi ences that will be held between the monarch and prime minister.

Mr Sunak then returned to Downing Street and walked past No 10's cat, Larry. Stepping up to the lectern, Mr Sunak addressed the nation.

He paid tribute to Ms Truss, saying she was not wrong to want to improve growth in this country. “It's a no ble aim," he said.

By Dr Tony Talburt

Liz Truss won the Conservative Party leadership contest in September 2022, it seemed to signal the end of in-fighting and scandals over illegal gatherings and an opportunity for a fresh start for the party, the government and the country.

While the death and subsequent funeral of Queen Elizabeth 11 brought a period of political calm, what we have witnessed within the conservative government in the last few weeks is nothing short of remarkable.

At the heart of the political drama, was Liz Truss. As the former leader of the Conservative Party and prime minister of the country, all eyes, understandably, were focused on her.

One day after declaring in the House of Commons that she is a fighter not a quitter, Liz Truss resigned from office. This was a dramatic, although expected outcome, and one has to ask how and why did it go so wrong so quickly?

It seems, the Truss government wanted to implement radical unpopular economic policies without getting cross party consensus or support.

One of the problems with politicians the world over, is the fact they often make more promises than they are able or willing to deliver within their 4 or 5 year period in office.

The major problem with Liz Truss was that most of her campaign promises were completely abolished within the first 4 or 5 weeks of her premiership.

In summary, Liz Truss’ signature economic policy was to embark on a programme of reducing taxes which, in theory at least, should result in greater spending in the economy.

This in turn should then help to increase consumer spending and overall economic growth.

Liz Truss made big statements about these tax cuts from day one, even though we were not clear how funds were going to be raised to pay for all the services the government would need to finance.

She, like most leaders in new positions, wanted to stamp her authority and identity very early. There were, however, warnings about her economic plans.

For example the international Monetary Fund (IMF) suggested Britain demonstrated the wrong

WhenTHE FALL OF LIZ TRUSS AND CRISIS IN THE CONSERVATIVE PARTY

way to handle the cost-ofliving crisis, and that tax cuts or giveaways risk creating financial instability and complicating the fight against inflation.

Even President Biden expressed his fears when he said the trickle down economic plan of Liz Truss was a mistake and one he disagreed with. The financial markets also reacted negatively to her economic plans, resulting in the pound falling to new lows against the US Dollar.

The main problem for Liz Truss seems to have been the inability to get her party to agree with her economic plan.

This resulted in an embarrassing series of retreats or U-turns. At this level, one or two minor U-turns would not seem so bad, government leaders often make adjustments or changes in a policy or two; not, however, a complete re-drafting of their main economic programme.

The replacement of Kwasi Kwarteng with Jeremy Hunt, only served to signal reinforce the point that Liz Truss had made some serious blunders in her economic plans.

Kwarteng’s mini budget was consigned to history, as cuts in dividend tax, cuts in the basic rate of income tax and the reduction of the two year energy bills programme to just six months, all signalled the nail in the coffin for Liz Truss’ confidence and her ability to carry out her mandate.

In one stroke, Jeremy Hunt reversed virtually all the government’s planned tax cuts, which were the centrepiece of Liz Truss’s promise to reignite Britain’s economic growth.

The same IMF which had previously warned Truss about her economic plans, later announced they welcomed Jeremy Hunt’s more orthodox approach, as it represented fiscal

discipline.

At this point, it was if Liz Truss had suddenly become invisible. She became the shortest serving prime minister, with just 44 days in office and her resignation speech was equally astonishingly short, just 90 seconds.

A prime minister without an economic plan and dwindling party support, is like a dead person walking. Although Liz Truss is gone, the problem the Conservative Party will now have, is how to unite behind a new leader.

The departure of the previous prime minister, Boris Johnson, demonstrated how fractious the party and the government have become.

These divisions and in fighting contributed, in part, to Truss’ departure and failure to unite behind the leader could consign the Conservative Party a long stay in the opposition wilderness.

PEOPLE AFFECTED BY DEMENTIA TO EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF SINGING

Interestin singing groups for people living with dementia has soared in Birmingham thanks to a moving twopart documentary fronted by TV star Vicky McClure, says Alzheimer’s Society.

Following last week’s final episode of the BBC One show ‘Our Dementia Choir Sings Again’, the charity has recorded a marked increase in enquiries about its popular Singing for the Brain service.

In the programme Line of Duty star Vicky, an Alzheimer’s Society ambassador, shines a light on the connection between music and memory and how participation in singing groups can benefit people living with dementia.

Since the first of the two episodes was aired on October 10, sign-ups from organisations and individuals interested in becoming a Singing for the Brain delivery partner have more than trebled.

Singing for the Brain is an uplifting and stimulating group activity, built around familiar and new songs, with fun vocal warmups. There are already groups set up across the UK, but Alzheimer’s Society wants more people in Birmingham to benefit.

The charity has created bespoke training to organisations or individuals across the UK, with an interest in music, to run their own group and become a Singing for the Brain delivery partner. They will provide partners with the support and resources to successfully do this.

Shelley Atkinson knows the benefits music has, as part of a Signing for the Brain group at the Leaf Creative Arts centre in Birmingham. She said: “Our sessions are designed with those with dementia in mind but are open to the wider community.

“The aim is to take away the stigma around dementia and ageing. We make sessions enjoyable for all age groups, with songs from various eras and try to tap into musical memories, but also make new ones. Ultimately, we want people to come and be in the moment as music can transport us to other places and times or transform our mood.

“When we sing together, there is quite often power in that togetherness providing a united experience. The group meets for our Moving Memories Choir at Stirchley Baths every third week of the month and has been so

popular that we have just started another location in Edgbaston.

“We know Edgbaston has been highlighted as having an ageing community, so we are keen to get music to more people in that area. Music can be enjoyed by everyone.

“Singing at the choir puts a smile on people’s faces, while giving a bit of respite to family carers bringing their partner or loved one along. Our feedback shows that this carries through to the rest of the week in many cases, sparking memories and imagination.

“We usually get around 30 people attending each time. The social element is such a strong part of what the choir is about. If one carer is dealing with an issue, it is likely someone else there will have dealt with it before so they are able to share advice. Songs are really great for getting both sides of the brain working and active."

On average, Alzheimer’s Society receives two to three online registration forms to become a Singing for the Brain delivery partner a day. Since Vicky McClure’s choir documentary aired on Monday 10 and 17 October, there has been 60 new registration forms submitted to the charity.

Business & Finance

Coping Mechanisms for Small Business in an Economic Crisis

by Dr. ChristopherA. Johnson

Atthe time of writing this article, figures suggested that UK inflation was running at over 10%, the highest for several decades.

APPLE TO MAKE ITS NEW IPHONE 14 MODEL IN INDIA

Fivepercent of iPhone 14 production is expected to shift to the country this year, much sooner than analysts had anticipated.

By 2025, a quarter of all iPhones the company makes could be produced in India, say analysts at investment bank JP Morgan.

Apple has been manufacturing iPhones in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu since 2017. But the decision to make their flagship model in India is a noteworthy step as trade tensions between Beijing and Washington show no signs of

letting up. As a result, global firms are increasingly adopting a ‘plus one’ strategy - or avoiding investing in China alone - to reorient their supply chains.

Oscar De Bok, CEO of logistics company DHL's supply chain business, said: "Companies are no longer willing to sit and wait for a policy change in China, or put their eggs in one basket for their sourcing needs.

"They want to make sure they have two or three alternatives."

Mr De Bok added that this trend towards omni-sourcing had clear beneficiaries in countries like India, Vietnam and Mexico.

He was in India's financial

capital Mumbai to announce a €500mn ($49mn; £43mn) investment to double DHL's warehousing capacity and headcount in the next five years.

He said this commitment was driven, in part, by the growth of foreign investment in sectors such as manufacturing and electronics where Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has been offering financial incentives to companies that are keen on making India their production hub.

As part of this productionlinked incentives (PLI) scheme, mining conglomerate Vedanta Resources has also earmarked

investments of close to $20bn (£17bn) to set up a semiconductor plant in India in collaboration with the Taiwanese electronics manufacturing giant Foxconn. Anil Agarwal, Chair of Vedanta Resources, said; “The world was looking to adopt a ‘China plus one’ strategy and India is clearly in a sweet spot".

India has a large domestic market and plentiful low-cost talent. With GDP growth in the range of 6-7%, and headline inflation that's more modest than in many other parts of the world, it has been one of the betterperforming major economies this year.

the same numbers.

Inflation is measured by the Consumer Prices Index; that is, consisting of rising costs in housing and household services, transport, as well as increases in food and non-alcoholic beverages.

More recently, energy prices, attributed to the war in Ukraine, have also impacted on consumer confidence, thereby placing national and international markets in a volatile position.

Are governments prepared to deal with the scale of the economic problem in light of prices of gas and electricity set to rise further, as supplies are either reduced or sold at exorbitant wholesale and retail prices?

Aside from state support for vulnerable families, groups and businesses facing mounting overhead costs, the UK domestic market has been struggling for over a decade, with low productivity and growth.

The latter has been compounded by low-skilled employment along with millions of workers suffering from either sickness or long-COVID.

across the country, is indicative of the present state of industrial relations involving employers, trade unions and employees, which appears chaotic.

Can this reputable tripartite system of bargaining be restored to a semblance of normality, reasonableness and parity for concerned? How long will this malaise last?

No amount of state bailouts can replace a long-term economic growth strategy, that supports the competency, experience and talent of small firms in the UK’s inner-cities and potential investment zone areas.

Prior to the pandemic, and since the easing of restrictions, the post-COVID situation has mirrored underlying problems affecting the emotional, economic, financial and wellbeing of millions of workers across the country.

If small businesses are to make a definitive contribute to growth in the UK economy, they will require the following lifeblood: -

• A review of current structures, leading to possible, leaner and fitter organisations.

BARBERS in the West Midlands and Birmingham, who may be considering closing their shops because of the cost-of-living crisis, have been thrown a lifeline by a mobile male grooming business.

Get Groomed Mobile

Barbers is looking to recruit between 15 and 20 barbers in the Birmingham area at a time when soaring energy bills and other costs are making it increasingly difficult to keep shop premises going.

Instead of waiting for customers to arrive at a shop the mobile barbers go into

workplaces and homes with customers booking their appointments online. Get Groomed, founded in 2017 in London, has expanded into the West Midlands and is recruiting to cope with demand.

Giuliano Dore, who founded the business, said: “These are very worrying times for so many barber shop owners. After a period of being closed during Covid many have not seen their customers return in

"Add to that the costs of all overheads going up and many really good barbers now face tough choices. We are saying to them that they shouldn’t despair and we have a business that they can join and use their skills as a visiting service.

“We have found that since Covid many elderly or vulnerable people do not feel so comfortable about sitting in a crowded waiting room for their haircut and have turned to us for an at-home service. We also have a number of businesses looking for ways to attract their workers back into the office and they have started having events where we set up mobile barbershops in the workplace on specially arranged days.”

The overall mental state of some older workers has also been impaired by anxiety and uncertainty to their economic and financial futures.

Others think that their earning power has been blighted by the global pandemic and recently, increasing predictions of an economic recession.

Additionally, there is constant speculation that the UK Government policy on investment in key industry sectors of the economy, is very questionable.

This is evidenced by growing skill attrition rates in sectors; viz, food and hospitality, social care and aspects of the construction industry; namely machinists, carpenters and brick layers or plasters.

The wave of industrial strikes

• Analysis of domestic and international market trends by customer segmentation, product and service demands.

• Assessment of pricing policies to take into account the elasticity of demand versus supply curves.

• Annual skills audits to determine the levels of effectiveness and efficiency of firms across directorial, administrative, supervisory and technical levels.

• Implementation of new quality control systems, procedures and processes to enhance the image and reputation of existing and potential customers.

• Build new networking alliances and partnership consortia arrangements to strengthen market intelligence systems.

journalist, editor and publisher Dr Christopher Johnson writes his monthly column in The Phoenix aiming to inform, educate and entertain.

ADOPTION & FOSTERING

PACT ENCOURAGING MORE BLACK PARENTS INTO ADOPTING

Adoption charity

PACT (Parents And Children Together) is urgently appealing for people from Black and Minority Ethnic communities to consider adoption.

PACT, which offers outstanding Ofsted-rated adoption services to families across the south-east of England, is one of the leading independent adoption charities in the country. Last year the charity helped transform the lives of 82 children by finding them their forever families.

With more than 2,000 children

waiting to be adopted, PACT specialises in finding secure and loving homes for priority children, including those of Black and Minority Ethnic heritage, who often face the longest wait for their forever family. PACT adopters can be couples or single people, of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds.

It is particularly looking for adopters of Black Caribbean, African or dual heritage.

PACT’s Chief Executive, Jan Fishwick OBE, said: “We are really keen to do what we can to reduce the time that children of BME heritage have to wait for

their forever family. Please do get in touch if you would like to find out more about adopting with PACT.”

Marcia, who is Black British with a Guyanese/Jamaican family heritage, and her husband Ian, who was born in Jamaica, adopted two sisters of Caribbean family heritage through PACT in October 2015.

“We liked the support that we got and we felt empowered from the start, particularly from our social worker, and all the training and parenting courses we received were really excellent. Meeting

the girls for the first time was amazing.

“I had thought they might take a while to get used to us, but they ran up calling us Mummy and Daddy. There was this moment of realisation that this is really

happening.

“For me, I am absolutely determined to do what I can to make my girls proud of who they are, and I know I can help them with that.”

What Next For The Adoption Support Fund?

WITH THE Comprehensive Spending Review and longawaited Care Review on the horizon, the government should seize this opportunity to improve support for adoptive and special guardian families.

With the announcement of this autumn’s Comprehensive Spending Review, and the government’s manifesto commitment to a comprehensive Care Review, although the ASF has provided critical support to many thousands of children and families, there is much that could be improved to ensure that every adopted and SG child can benefit from the right support at the right time. Hopefully, the government will seizing this opportunity to improve the ASF and truly commit to long-term, evidence-based support that is accessible to every child who needs it.

ASTON UNIVERSITY ENTREPRENEURSHIP GRADUATE JOINS TECH AWARDS JUDGING PANEL

An entrepreneurship graduate from Aston University was one of the panel of experts judging the Tech Awards 2022 as part of Birmingham Tech Week, the UK's largest regional tech festival and conference in October.

Davies Okeowo, originally from Nigeria, graduated from Aston Business School with a masters degree in entrepreneurship in 2021, after which he founded the company Novel Innovations Ltd which provides business management software that gives micro businesses access to business insights.

Earlier this year, Davies was shortlisted in the start-ups and enterprise category of the Future Faces annual awards organised by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce to recognise and celebrate young talent across the West Midlands.

The Tech Awards celebrated tech and digital talent across the West Midlands. The winners were announced at a black-tie dinner at the ICC in Birmingham on 14 October which was attended by 550 tech experts and digital leaders from across the West Midlands. Russ Shaw CBE, founder of Global Tech Advocates, was the guest speaker. Mark Smith, executive director

CRRE Annual Lecture With Professor Michael Apple

CENTRE FOR RESEARCH in Race and Education (CRRE), at the University of Birmingham, are honoured to welcome back Professor Michael W. Apple, John Bascom Professor Emeritus of Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Policy Studies University of Wisconsin, Madison and Professorial Fellow University of Manchester.

For all of the well-deserved attention that is given to neoliberal agendas and policies, to privatization and choice plans, to audit cultures and standardization,

Attention must continue to paid just as much to the actual stuff that is taught—and the “absent presences” of what is not taught—in schools. These struggles over dominant meanings are crucial elements in social transformations.

A major question here is whether dominant knowledge

itself can be used to actually interrupt dominance.

Focus will be paid to two examples of these critically democratic attempts involving minoritized groups and on the contradictions and victories they produce. All are welcomed.

The lecture takes place on Wednesday 2nd November (57pm) in the Lecture Theatre G03, The Alan Walters Building (R29).

of business engagement at Aston University, said: “Davies Okeowo came from Nigeria to study at Aston University and was awarded a partial Aston Enterprise Scholarship for demonstrating his potential to be a successful entrepreneur in the future. Realising that potential, and utilising his learning from Aston University, Davies has since started his own tech business.

“His achievements have already been recognised by being shortlisted for a Greater Birmingham Chambers Future Faces award earlier this year. We at Aston University are delighted and proud that he is now a judge for this year’s Tech Awards.”

Software Company Expands Educational Assessment Offering

A CARDIFF-BASED software company has expanded the available Welsh Government Personalised Assessments for school pupils in years 2-9 and is now developing similar software for use by public bodies in the US and Middle East.

Method4 works in a consortium to deliver the assessment software and framework in Wales, which was rolled out in 2018. The company provides the online platform for the scheduling and delivery of the assessments, along with the framework for delivering the reports.

The software initially launched with procedural maths, and Method4 and its associates have now introduced maths reasoning and English language reading to the suite of assessments.

Author Calling For Year-Round Black History In Schools

ONE OF THE UK's most successful children's authors says schools should teach Black history all year round.

Malorie Blackman said history lessons should tell the whole truth of the British Empire, such as Britain's role in the transatlantic slave trade. Schools in England are not currently required to teach any Black history.

Adding it to the curriculum would help prevent those speaking out against racism being accused of "race-baiting", the former children's laureate said.

"For some people, they don't want anything taught that makes them uncomfortable," she said. “History shouldn’t be about cherry-picking the best bits. Black history should be taught all year round.

"If you're talking about the history of Britain, then that history includes Black people and people of colour," Malorie said.

Percussionist Jordan Ashman, who’s studying for a BMus at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, was the winner of the prestigious competition, held at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall.

Speaking after his win, the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire student said: “I feel really lucky to have had the experience of playing an amazing concerto with an incredible orchestra in front of so many people - I've learnt so much from it. I'm really enjoying my first year at RBC, I'm looking forward to working hard and seeing which path it will take me on.”

Professor Shirley Thompson, Interim Principal at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire,

said: “We are incredibly proud to have Jordan as part of the RBC community and look forward to supporting him following such an exciting and pivotal moment in his career.”

Jordan (18) began playing the drum kit at the age of seven, before then expanded into percussion. The musician, from Cambridgeshire, has played with the National Children’s Orchestra, National Youth Orchestra and the National Youth Brass Band.

He impressed the judging panel with a performance of American composer Jennifer Higdon’s Percussion Concerto, written in 2005 for celebrated percussionist Colin Currie, and scored for a mix of pitched and non-pitched instruments. Jordan was accompanied by the BBC Philharmonic conducted by Mark Wigglesworth.

Head of Percussion at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, Toby Kearney, said: “Jordan's outstanding performance was jaw-droppingly exciting, stylish and committed - his risk-taking playing is full of joy and displays musicality and flair way beyond

Music Student Celebrates Following His BBC Young Musician Win

his years.

“The percussion department at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire places versatility and employability at the heart of its courses with a cutting-edge

curriculum nurturing all students’ strengths and weaknesses individually. Percussion students are incredibly busy with countless performances and opportunities every year and our roster of

highly acclaimed specialist tutors give students and graduates the skills and opportunities they need to build a successful career.”

AWE

BOOSTS WOMEN’S EMPLOYMENT

Lamiaa Salah told her parents she planned to leave her home in Asyut, Egypt, to pursue education and a career in Cairo, they did not want her to leave.

Salah says Egypt’s conservative society sometimes presents challenges to women who wish to find jobs, and that education and professional opportunities for women outside of Cairo may be limited.

But she persisted, even inviting her parents to accompany her to Cairo. When they saw her passion for learning, they gained confidence in her dream of becoming a successful

Whenbusinesswoman.

In college, Salah became interested in sustainable development, particularly the role of women. She interviewed other women and found many wrestling with the same challenges she faced. “Young women in rural areas are hungry for education and career advancement, but they do not know where to start,” she said.

In 2021, she launched the training and mentorship business TamaKani. It promotes equal access to Egypt’s labour market by providing women job-training skills that boost their chances of getting hired. Named for the Arabic word for “empower,” TamaKani now has

l Academy for Women Entrepreneurs alumna Lamiaa Salah founded TamaKani, a business that helps women in Egypt find jobs

over 7,000 participants and has helped 150 women find jobs. Its business partners come from an array of local organizations and its participants from nine different Egyptian governorates.

Salah credits the U.S. Department of State’s Academy

for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) with helping her launch TamaKani. She is among over 150 AWE participants since the program entered Egypt in 2020.

Worldwide, AWE has equipped more than 16,000 women with the knowledge, networks and

access they need to launch or scale businesses since 2019.

“This program covered every detail that a start-up entrepreneur must take into account when launching a business, from naming a brand to making a business pitch to the legal aspects in intellectual property,” she said. She wants TamaKani to provide other Egyptian women career-launching learning and development opportunities.

Offering more than 20 professional skills training programs, including marketing and graphic design, as well as resume-writing and interviewing to match women with courses, they evaluate participants’ technical skills, Englishlanguage ability and learning style. TamaKani’s trainers, most of whom are women, measure participants’ progress throughout the program and pair students with companies that are recruiting for jobs, internships and volunteer opportunities.

“The cultural and traditional mindset is a huge thing to change,” Salah says. “Knowing that many women face the same obstacles I did, one of my biggest dreams is to support and empower the women of Egypt.”

The King & I

Continued from front page

"Not born of ill will or bad intentions, quite the opposite,” he went on, “but there were mistakes nonetheless." The PM said he is determined to “fix the mistakes" made by his predecessor.

He went on to say that he was ready to lead the country "into the future and put your needs above politics." He said he would build a government that represents the best of his party.

At 42, billionaire, Sunak, is the young est prime minister in more than 200 years. The son of African-born Hindus of Indian descent, he is also the country’s first ethnic minority leader in 140 years, after Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli in the 1800s, who was of Jewish descent but a practicing Christian.

When King Charles formally appointed Rishi Sunak as Prime Minister, it was a his toric moment for the new monarch. It was the first time that HRH had to carry out the sovereign's duty of appointing a head of the government - coming seven weeks into his reign.

Depeche Mode announce first live shows in five years

Rock& Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2020 inductees Depeche Mode announced today at a special event in Berlin that they will be releasing a new album and embarking on a world tour in 2023.

The Memento Mori Tour will support the band’s forthcoming 15th studio album, Memento Mori, due out in Spring 2023.

In a break from tradition, Dave Gahan and Martin Gore revealed today that the Live Nationpresented tour will begin with a special, limited series of North American arena dates starting

March 23rd, before the band heads to Europe for their summer stadium tour. These limited North American dates will feature stops at New York’s Madison Square Garden, Chicago’s United Center, Los Angeles’ Kia Forum and Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena, among others.

The band will then begin their European stadium tour on May 16th, with noted stops including the Stade de France in Paris, Berlin’s Olympic Stadium, Milan’s San Siro Stadium, and London’s Twickenham Stadium.

In speaking about Memento Mori,

Martin Gore commented: “We started work on this project early in the pandemic, and its themes were directly inspired by that time.

"After Fletch’s passing, we decided to continue as we’re sure this is what he would have wanted, and that has really given the project an extra level of meaning.”

Dave Gahan added: “Fletch would have loved this album.

"We’re really looking forward to sharing it with you soon, and we can’t wait to present it to you live at the shows next year.” Tickets are now on general sale.

Food & Fine Dining

Charity V For Life Inviting People To Join Their Monthly Virtual Vegan Luncheon Club

OPEN TO VEGANS, vegetarians, and meat reducers aged 65 and over, the club offers attendees the chance to learn new dishes, get tips from an experienced vegan chef, and meet like-minded people from across the UK. The club takes places through Zoom on the fourth Tuesday of every month.

Recipes are provided in advance, so you have plenty of time to get the ingredients. Cook that morning and then join Vegetarian for Life Chef Justina, along with attendees from across the UK, at 1pm.

Justina is a Culinary Arts Management graduate who brings knowledge and passion for sustainable, plant-based eating. She has managed a variety of groups of chefs and created her own menus, working in both Italian and theatre restaurants.

Pilsner Urquell Celebrates 180 Years

She is passionate about experimenting with different/ unusual flavours and baking. She enjoys travelling and seeking inspiration in cuisines around the globe.

"As always, there is no need to cook all of the recipes," she says. "You can choose just one or two,

or simply join the lunch club with a cup of tea or what you're having for your lunch that day".

Attendees have told the charity, which supports older vegans and vegetarians: "It was a lovely lunchtime meet up, with lots of pie!" and: "It was really nice to attend for the first time yesterday. Thank you."

Recipes take a different theme each month and are The next club is on: 25th October - Bake Off take 2.

Pilsner

Urquell, the world’s original golden pilsner, is celebrating 180 years of putting foam smiles on people’s faces.

First brewed on the 5th October 1842, through its iconic pilsner style, the brand, which is part of Asahi Europe & International, has inspired thousands of other pilsner beers around the world.

To commemorate the momentous anniversary, this year’s annual Pilsner Fest will be taking place in the city of Plzeň, Czech Republic, where Pilsner Urquell first originated, on Saturday 8th October. Throughout its history, Pilsner Urquell has been brewed in the same brewery in Plzeň, with the same Czech ingredients and recipe from 1842.

Pilsner Urquell, distinctive for its dense, creamy foam, is reinforced through the Pilsner Urquell Tapster Programme, a global community of trained bartenders who champion beer quality and pour the perfect pint (with three fingers of foam, of course) all over the world.

Pilsner Urquell is dedicated to the goals of Asahi Europe & International’s Legacy 2030 sustainability strategy, working with farmers from the region to maintain the tradition of local cooperation using high quality, sustainably sourced ingredients.

Pilsner Urquell’s brewery in Plzeň has maintained its perfect recipe and brewing process, whilst responding to the world’s changing climate with a strong commitment to sustainability.

Since 2021 Pilsner Urquell’s bottles use 100% recyclable paper labels, saving 48.4 tonnes of aluminium and 57.6 tonnes of plastic every year.

Ard Bossema, Pilsner Urquell Global Brand Director said: “Our 180th anniversary is an emotional milestone. Our golden pilsner is now the world’s favourite style of beer. It’s also a celebration of the passion, consistency and integrity that’s gone into crafting every drop for over 180 years. In a world where things are evolving at lightning speed, we’re proud to say we haven’t changed a thing –from the way we brew our beer to the way it’s poured with three fingers of foam.”

Kamil Růžek, Pilsner Urquell Senior Trade Brewmaster added: “The traditional Pilsner foam style is important on many levels. It creates the perfect balance in our beer – the creamy sweetness complements the bitterness of the Saaz hops. It’s also our quality promise to consumers, as good foam can only come from good ingredients. Finally, it acts as a barrier to oxygen, keeping the beer fresher for longer.”

Birmingham Voted As Britain’s Most Exciting Food Destination

BIRMINGHAM WAS recently voted as Britain’s “most exciting food destination” at a ceremony at The Groucho Club, in Soho. The Good Food Guide’s awards put the second city ahead of second-place London for best food venues.

Three restaurants in the city were ranked in its Top 20, with the highest ranked West Midlands restaurant being The Wilderness, in the Jewellery Quarter placed tenth. Michelin star, Carters of Moseley, finished 18th.

In its 70th year of publication, at The Good Food Guide: Top 20 Most Exciting Restaurants of 2022 the 20 most exciting restaurants in Britain saw L’Enclume in Cumbria take the top spot, followed by Ynyshir, in Ceredigion, mid Wales. Bronze was taken by Lancashire’s Moor Hall, Lancashire, while the Raby Hunt, in County Durham took fourth.

The Good Food Guide said: “No other English provincial city is as well served with such

a range of unique and frequently exceptional restaurants right across the price range. At the top of the scale, three exceptional places from the Birmingham area feature in our 20 most exciting restaurants in Britain – an extraordinary feat.

“But getting the balance just right extends to others including Opheem, with its unmistakably curry-based but uniquely modern-British approach, and

Harborne Kitchen, where Jamie Desogus pulls off a real coup, making the restaurant a bit of a holy grail in terms of packing mass-appeal into posh nosh. Nowhere but in Britain – and perhaps even more specifically in Birmingham - could this cooking occur”.

The top five was rounded out by the UK’s first-ever Michelinstarred pub, the Sportsman, which sits just outside of Whitstable.

All five frequently appear in UK food and restaurant award lists; the three medallists all picked up the Good Food Guide’s “world class” title.

The highest performing London restauant was Jason Atherton’s Pollen Street Social at number eight, with Tom Sellers’ Restaurant Story (11), Da Terra (17), Kol (19) and Endo at the Rotunda 20th.

l Brewmaster Kamil Ruzek at Pilsner Urquell brewery in Plzeň

Tony Iommi Receives Unique Picture Of Black Sabbath Bench

Auniquework of art that captures Black Sab bath’s ‘heavy metal’ bench in Birmingham has been created for and deliv ered as a special gift to Tony Iom mi, the band’s lead guitarist.

And now a limited edition of 250 prints of the painting have been produced for die-hard metal fans to purchase.

The picture, created by local artist Paula Gabb, looks down on the canal from the Barajee Indian restaurant opposite the bench on Broad Street, which has become a major landmark for tourists to the city.

Westside Business Improvement District (BID), where the bench is located, spotted what was original ly a digital picture on the web and then commissioned Gabb to repro duce and refine it as a one-off work of art.

The BID has now delivered it to Tony Iommi’s Midlands home as a ‘thank you’ present for the star’s continued support for the district.

Iommi, who unwrapped and viewed the picture for the first time on a bench in his back garden this week, said: “Thank you Westside! It’s a great painting and I’m so chuffed to see the Back Sabbath bench depicted in such colourful art.”

Mike Olley, general manager of Westside BID, said: “Tony has shown fantastic commitment with his willingness to turn out in person on Westside over the years, and we

wanted to find a special way of say ing ‘thank you’.

“When we first saw this painting by Paula, I shared an image of it with Tony and he expressed his de light and pleasure at the work and how it had so accurately depicted the bench.

“I knew then that this would make a great gift for him and am delight ed that the picture is now hanging in his home studio.”

OLLY MURS WITH MARRY

Don’t

believe everything you see on TV: Olly Murs has been away. After re cently signing to EMI Records, the chart-topping star is back and now returns with the re lease of Marry Me, his first new studio album in over four years, and the 7th of his illustrious ca reer, on December 2nd.

'Die Of A Broken Heart' opens the album, and arrives as the first single. From the opening notes, you can hear why – it’s an in stant ear-worm, a one-listen-andyou’re-hooked pop-reggae outlier - listen here.

As Olly describes it: “It has that steel drum at the intro, which just gets in your head straight away.

It has a very Gotye, ‘Somebody I Used to Know’ feel to it, with a touch of The Police – and just a coolness to it. That really excited me.”

He jumped in, committing to writing and recording the album solely with David Stewart and Jessica Agombar, who between them have had roaring success writing for BTS securing a Bill board number one - a number one in over 100 countries. One album, three writers and no fea tures. “I've never done this before.

It felt weird writing with the same people constantly. But I loved the routine, and the consisten cy. We just kept writ ing good songs. They had a great

vibe and an enthusiasm, and a hunger”

The singer, songwriter and sol id-gold pop star has been all over our screens recently. He’s been front and centre as host of ITV’s Starstruck, then, he returned to the big swivelly chair on The Voice. But in the artist world – the world that forged him, Olly has been off the radar for over four years. Now, the musician who had four Num ber One singles and four Number One albums in a near-back-toback run after bursting onto the scene with his double-platinum self-titled debut in 2010, is well and truly back.

The joy and energy of that cre ative process ripple and radiate out from Marry Me. Case in point: ‘Go Ghost’. The playfulness of the lyric is matched by the very Eight ies bounce of the track, like peak

IS BACK MARRY ME!

A-Ha

Also

DESTINATION: GHANA

not dissatisfied with the delivery and attention to detail of the entire staff on hand at Movenpick, in particular Valentine Sena, their Meetings and Events Executive.

We could not have asked for a more accommodating establishment, for our Be Bold! Conference on the 29th September, and the Gala Dinner and Awards on the night of the 30th September.

We also had invited special guests and our team staying at the hotel, who enjoyed a luxurious and more than comfortable stay.

Nana Addo Dankwa AkufoAddo visited London to unveil the launch of Destination: Ghana, where he once again invited the world to visit The Gateway.

While this was marketed as a hassle free, covid-unhindered process, this was unfortunately far from the truth.

EDITORS

Welcome to “The Phoenix Africa” an exclusive FREE quality Newspaper for the people and business community of Africa.

The Phoenix Africa is a fresh and vibrant publication bringing quality content to the masses. The first free newspaper to be published in Africa by Africans. Leading the way and setting trends.

This is a sister publication to the successful “The Phoenix Newspaper UK” which has stayed true to its focus in providing a regular mix of Positive and Informative articles with an honest and unbiased viewpoint that have a direct connection to its growing readership of 8million worldwide.

This newspaper is birthed from a positive perspective with the intent of showcasing the true state of events ranging from three cardinal perspectives, which are places, events and people.

These promote culture, discovering of talents, and achievers, (traditional, political, career, and academics).

Events - drawn from three main perspectives, festival, carnival and shows, as well as personal celebrations, birthdays, weddings, graduations and more.

Places - what are the reasons behind the attraction of people, of which invariably people will take advantage of in creating business opportunities thereby addressing the issue of poverty eradication.

The Phoenix Newspaper decided to stage its 10th Anniversary in Ghana this year, we knew that we would face certain challenges.

However, with faith, determination and the will to win, we were optimistic of a positive outcome.

The people of Ghana were generally very welcoming and accommodating, and the Mampong connections in Ghana that the newspaper already enjoyed, dating back to 1997 with its previous title, 'The Enterprise' made navigating this new space a lot easier, especially thanks to

WhenHRH Ohene Nana Agyemang Nyamekye Amlak Aduana Hene of Kwakye Dida Nsuta Ashanti.

Choosing a venue that would reflect the standard of the venue

The Phoenix Newspaper regularly used for its annual awards in the UK, The Internatinal Convention Centre, was a difficult task until we discovered Movenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra.

Perfectly positioned in the capital city of Accra, and truly a 5-star offering, in it's location, vibrancy, professionalism, hospitality, once they found it, Movenpick was the obvious choice.

They felt that the people of Ghana deserved the best, and were

From the warm and welcoming greetings from the doormen and porters, to the chefs and the culinary masterpieces they created, the stay at the hotel was top tier.

Thanks must go to the chef also, for upgrading the fish option to salmon, to give a more accommodating selection to suit every palate.

It's true what they say about the spiritual aspect (if you are that way inclined) of entering Africa for the first time. It truly felt like a homecoming, and you felt the need to kiss the ground upon your arrival.

A remarkable proudness coupled with a sense of belonging enshrined this connecting of communities, with the aim of enspiring the next generation.

AKWAABA!

In July of this year, President

From confusion over vaccination and visa requirements, to testing and screening on arrival, there were far more barriers to entry than we were lead to believe, and a lot of people who had intended to visit Ghana for the event were unable to do so, after parting with their hard earned cash for flights and accommodation.

It would be prudent for the embassy to consider updating their sites to allow a more user friendly accessibility so that those who are interesting in taking up the invitation to return, will have an easier and more streamlined visit.

That being said, upon arrival in Ghana, we were welcomed with open arms. One of the things that we weren't expecting was the juxtaposition of high humidity, decent temperatures and torrential rain, although it was desperately needed!

Ghana was a fantastic experience, and we can't wait to return, look out next year for the Phoenix Africa Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation!

The Phoenix Newspaper is renowned as the “voice of the people” truthful and professional journalism, in depth reports and interviews, facts and not fiction, presented in a bright and refreshing publication that attracts and captivates its audience.

Now these exciting developments are coming to the people of Africa in this Exclusive Free Newspaper & Online Publication.

Working with the people and communities of Africa, starting in Ghana, which is seen as the Gateway, The Phoenix Africa will be connecting with senior government departments and embracing the leaders of major business enterprises, we will be bringing something for everyone, in this new and exclusive publication providing a platform for the Role Models that the next generation will aspire to be.

Building upon our success “Phoenix Africa” will contain exclusive news and developments from across the continent of Africa and the world, bringing detailed and authoritative reports and reviews of matters that reflect and affect both the lifestyle and prosperity of the African people.

People - discovering of individuals who stand out in their area of work .

Discovering of, and the empowerment of young talented youth and showcasing them to the world as well as older people who are achievers especially in the traditional institutions.

This is a platform that will create employment for many young people who aspire to be within this type of industry.

It will invariably give them the chance to write their own narrative to reflect a more inclusive attitude when representing themselves, their culture and their people.

It is important to note that we do NOT report sensationalised news, only uplifting and nonbiased apolitical journalism.

Welcome to The Phoenix Africa, your one stop shop of everything positive.

Finally, may I give my warmest thanks to the children of St Peter's Lutheran Church and School, who were absolutely phenomenal on the night, serenading everyone with the utmost professionalism, from their entrance to their exit, they were the pinnacle of perfection.

We hope they all continue to rise like Phoenixes.

l Valentine Sena & Paul Harrison

l Air Commodore Dr Marcia McLaughlin, Editor In Chief, The Phoenix Africa

A Special Message From Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh, And Our Partners For The Be Bold! Conference, The Nishkam Centre

TheGala Dinner was a delight to attend. Distinguished guests, dignitaries, and His Royal Highness Nana Agyemekye Amlak Aduana Hene of Kwakye were welcomed with much enthusiasm by drummers, dancers, and traditional entourage.

A wonderful sight for all to experience and enjoy. Even more heart-warming was the appreciation of the entry of Dida Nsuta Ashanti, the Queen Mother and the ladies in her entourage.

They were shown such deference and respect – a reminder to us all of the importance of our parents.

We were treated to such beautiful music and songs with thought-provoking lyrics. The children from St Peter’s

Lutheran Church and School sang ‘Something inside so Strong’ and ‘Lean on me’ with such enthusiasm and great gusto. We were moved by their perfect renditions of both songs – such an impressive performance from the children.

We were treated to a short film that showed the achievements of the Phoenix Newspaper across the World as they go from strength to strength in building relationships and partnerships – all for the advancement of communities that are in need.

A shining example of keeping positivity and optimism at the fore front of all you do. Smiling in the face of adversity as you keep on trying despite the setbacks. Their strength and determination has helped them become a real

positive force – one that will surely be seen and felt across Africa very soon indeed.

The awards ceremony recognised some of the hardworking individuals that are going above and beyond to help others through education, industry, and community matters.

The thank you speeches conveyed such humility and modesty that you knew the right people had been chosen to receive the accolades. Such inspiring individuals that you felt proud to be sitting amongst them and sharing their special evening with them.

A huge thank you must be said to Marcia McLauchlin for inviting myself and GNNSJ Team to Africa, the continent of my birth. It has been an honour

to visit Ghana – a very warmhearted nation with a rich-legacy and the first country to achieve its independence from colonial rule. It has since flourished and become one of the peaceful nations in Africa – a huge achievement given its multitude of people with over fifty spoken languages.

I would also like to thank Dr Haruna and Professor John Azumah of the Sanneh Institute without whose support and collaboration our trip would not have been the huge success it has been.

May we all be inspired to search our traditions for those practices that bring the mind, body, heart and soul into synch, to establish a wholesome, lasting peace within the self and others.

l

Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh

BE BOLD! CONFERENCE

Aroyal

procession, led by HRH Ohene Nana Agyemang Nyamekye Amlak Aduana Hene of Kwakye Dida Nsuta Ashanti, preceded an eventful, though-provoking prelude to The Phoenix Newspaper 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Show, which came under the theme of ‘Be Bold! Conference’. It was also time for the unveiling of the ‘bold’ Phoenix Africa!

The multi-faith Conference began, by welcoming Professor John Azumah, Executive Director of the Sannah Institute, in Ghana, who talked of the advance of the country – on a worldwide basis – as more and more people are turning to the country, for many reasons.

Within his speech, he said: “As one of the first countries – south of the Sahara region - to gain independence from our former colonial masters, we are also one of the leading west African countries blessed with on-going peace, in the region – something that we don’t take for granted. We take pride in being so uniquely multireligious”, he went on, “and as such, there is no better place in west Africa”.

An ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church and associate professor of World Christianity and Islam, Prof. Azumah is one of the leaders in Islam and Christian–Muslim relations and he is currently working on research in the area of World Christianity and Islam.

Following this, was the introduction of the ‘Peace Charter for Forgiveness and Reconciliation’ by its director, Dr Josef Boehel, a Research Fellow at the University of Birmingham, UK, who talked about his vision “is that the process of forgiving is vital if healing and reconciliation are to take place, as part of our collective efforts to seek justice, harmony and sustainable peace.

“Fostering and practising forgiveness,” he continued, “has the power to transform memories and deep-seated responses to legacies of injustice, conflict and war. It can liberate people from being imprisoned in their pasts and long ingrained mental and emotional conditions.

“Faith and spiritual traditions guide and inspire us to awaken the best of our human potential,

by practising compassion, mercy, kindness, love, forgiveness and reconciliation, and to positively reshape our destinies. We, people, mindful of our shared humanity, commit to practise and nurture forgiveness and reconciliation, to foster healing, harmony, justice and sustainable peace in our world”.

His presence, which was live screened, pre-empted a panel, which included Sheik Anyawo Shaibu, who is the spokesperson for the National Chief Imam of the Republic of Ghana, the Head at the Department for the Study of Religion at the University of Ghana, Professor Rose Mary Amengo-Atego, Ambassador Mussie Hailu of the United Religions initiative, Global Peace Foundation and the General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana, Reverend Dr Cyril G.K. Fayosa.

The theme, ‘Building Towards Peaceful Communication’, highlighting the challenges faced on ground level and the relevant steps to take to solve the issues, and what’s working well? And what is not?

The panel went on to discuss the ‘Peace Charter for Forgiveness and Reconciliation’ and its worldwide movement of people seeking forgiveness, reconciliation, justice and sustainable peace – as well as being aware of the oneness of our human family. This, before the focus turned on to what mechanisms were needed to address whether enough have been, and will be, done to address the significant issues and move forward.

After facing a barrage of questions from the floor, and allaying queries and doubts, and adhering to the collective drive forward, for Ghana, Africa, and indeed, the world-at-large, a

second panel discussion – ‘The Primacy of Forgiveness and Reconciliation for Peacebuilding in Africa’ – included the chair of the National Peace Council, Rev, Dr Ernest Adu Gyamfi, academic Hajia Fatima Sulamanu, who is a National Trustee at the Federation of Muslim Women Associations in Ghana, Prof. John Azumah and Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh Ji, chair of the Guru Nanak Nishkam Sevak Jatha, in Birmingham, Co. President of the Gandhi Foundation, the Hon. Ela Gandhi, who is the granddaughter of Mahatma (Gandhi) gave a recorded message, which was a continuation of the anti-colonialist and political ethicist message once lauded by her grandfather.

She highlighted the idea of mobilising communities – in all aspects for an easy transformation for forgiveness and reconciliation, to facilitate change in others.

“The biggest challenge,” she said, “would be to convince others that change is the only way forward.”.

the panel then went on to discuss ‘The Primacy of Forgiveness and Reconciliation for Peace in Africa’ which, as one point, was the role of women in society as a whole.

“One thing is vitally important,” said one speaker from the floor, “and that is -regardless of sex, faith, or age, it’s about bringing people together. If we really want to make a change, we must engage with young people if we want to make a change for the future.

So, please, let’s engage with the children.”

That was the perfect pre-cursor for the main reason for our being there, the unveiling of ‘Phoenix Africa’ which took place after group photos were taken for the morning session, and breaking for lunch which was compliments of The Phoenix Newspaper for all delegates.

The afternoon session was moderated by Alistair Soyode, and began with the unveiling of The Phoenix Africa by the team, led by one of the leading team members, Bernard Kwakye. He would then present it to the audience, who, themselves, could not wait to be part of what promises to be a very bright future.

This draws on the sentiment of the message of the morning to engage with the youth of today, giving them a platform and a voice to write their own narrative.

It was after then that one of our specially invited guests, Commander RJ Walters, defence adviser to Accra & Non-Resident Attaché Adidjan, Lome and Cotonou, facilitated by Honorary Air Commodore Dr Marcia McLaughlin and Wing Commander Howard Leader of the Royal Auxilliary Air Force in the UK, entered on stage and spoke of Ghana and the Commonwealth.

The country’s role, moving forward, was laid bare for the country - in particular and west Africa, in general, the highlight of the message here.

“How are we perceived in this area?” Cdr Walters asked. “I think that the UK is seen as a trusted partner”, he said. “Like training Ghanaian officers at training schools in the UK.

“Moving forward,” he went on, “is that we want to see Ghanaian officers trained here, in Ghana, so that African solutions can be made for African problems. So, we want to train Ghanaian officers in Ghana, and likewise others similarly in nations in and around the region, and beyond.” A message that was endorsed on by host, RAF Media Reserves’ Cpl Jonathan Sarabadu, representing The Phoenix Newspaper.

“Whatever it is,” CEO of BEN TV Alistair Soyode, said, “there’s

always dignity and integrity in culture.” It was then that Stephen Osle-Ameche of Green Tropics International Group, Ghana, and Hotel Chocolat Plc, UK, who introduced the ‘Working in Partnership to Promote Gentle Farming and other ForwardThinking Initiatives in The Cocoa Sector’, to join a new panel.

“I represent a group”, Stephen said, “that is known in Ghana as the Green Tropics International Group. As part of the biodiversity, they create specialized chocolate and, for the past 20 years, have had funds provided to take on and train young people - in their Gentle Farming Scheme, for them to then take on and develop their own businesses.

“For every acre of land they produce, we will give them 450 high-grade cocoas, as part of the ‘Young Farmers Support Scheme, which is free of charge. So, when cocoa is removed from the land, we would see that the land is replenished”.

"That is just one of the many engagement initiatives that makes Green Tropics International Group, Ghana, and Hotel Chocolat Plc, UK, so uniquely special, when it comes to engagement – at all levels."

Khori Hyde was last to speak at the Conference. A Chief Diaspora Representative at real estate development and management group, Moorland Development, in Jamaica, he spoke from the heart when he said: “Boy Ghana, when I looked out of the plane window, I said ‘bwoy, I’m home.

“I grew up in Jamaica, but to be part of this homeland… WOW!

“I came here to talk about Moorland Development, but I want to talk about ‘peace of mind’, because when you have peace of mind, we Caribbeans are healing. And I am evidence of that reconciliation. We in the Caribbean were disconnected, centuries ago. We are now healing, as part of our reconciliation process.

“I am proud to be part of this great gathering of great African leaders, and African kings and queens –my brothers and sisters, aunties and uncles, great grandfathers and great grandmothers. I’m proud to be here (in Ghana) to be part of The Phoenix Newspaper’s 10th Anniversary celebrations “At Moorland Development we believe in developing communities and we believe in ‘strength in affinity’. All which is inspired by nature. Moorland is offering you a ‘home-from-home’.

“In this room,” he went on, “we are one love, with one heart… so, let’s just get together and feel alright!" as he emotionally burst into a rendition of 'One Love' by the late great Bob Marley. Which, for all who took up this once-in-a-lifetime African adventure, was the least we all felt!

l Bhai Sahib Ji

l Commander RJ Walters

l Alistair Soyode

l Khori Hyde

l Dr Alex Akwaeze

THE

Itwas Destination: Ghana as The Phoenix Newspaper marked ten glorious years of being the only internationally read positive, informative, and objective publication.

And, to mark this auspicious occasion, it was time for the great and the good, from home and abroad, to gather – in Accra!

The continent was calling for a piece of The Phoenix action, and they got it –in splendour and abundance. This, for the team, it proved a dream coup – for everyone who witnessed this marvel, it was, without doubt, an unbelievable celebration – for the TPN Media team, as a whole and its creator, Air Commodore Dr Marcia McLaughlin F.Birm.Soc, in particular. Now an established fixture on

the UK’s annual Awards calendar, and Birmingham’s International Convention Centre’s No.1 Awards event, Air Commodore Dr Marcia (our truly fearless leader) saw fit to have this, our 10th Anniversary, celebrated at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel, in Ghana’s capital city, concluding on her promise made in 1997 to the Chief in the Mampong Region of the Ashanti to provide for Ghana.

In the presence of some of Africa’s leading Kings and Queens, Spiritual Leaders and other renowned dignitaries, from the continent and further afield, this, in many ways, was the ultimate destination – for the ultimate Awards Show.

“This was a fantastic evening where we recognise some of the wonderful people from across Africa,” Dr Marcia said in a special speech, “and we also proudly give away specially diamond cut glass batons to everyone who has done remarkable service for their community.

“We also give a special tribute to the Nayiri, one of our greatest rulers, who has done so much for his community and thank all the African Kings, Queens, and Spiritual Leaders

Thank you, too, also went out to the Guru Nanak Nishkam

Sewak Jatha, in Birmingham, especially its Spiritual Leader and Chair, Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh. They visited Ghana to use it as a platform to launch their ‘Peace Charter’ initiative – a charter for peace and reconciliation.

Dr Marcia also gave great thanks to St. Peter’s Lutheran School, in Accra –“an amazing bunch of young people,” she said, “who showed that when young people get together, they are a joy.

(More was to come from St. Peter’s).

“Take this opportunity to embrace Phoenix Africa and thank you, Ghana”, she finished off saying, “for accepting our invite”, before her chosen song; ‘My Special Prayer‘, sung by Percy Sledge, enhanced the spirit that led the Conference.

And after Nishkam Civic Engagement and Partnerships Director, Amrick Singh Ubhi expressed the honour for the Nishkam Centre to be invited to be part of this memorable trip – with the blessing of a present Bhai Sahib Jiand highlighting the Nishkam’s worldwide brand he invited their dedicated volunteers on stage, whose performance was the perfect prelude to what followed.

“Quite the most fantastic group of young people you have ever seen in your life,” RAF Media Reserves, Cpl. Jonathan Sarabadu who was representing The Phoenix Newspaper, said, as he introduced St. Peter’s Lutheran School to the stage at the 5-Star venue which was perfect for them.

And, boy, he was so right as their version of Labi Siffre’s ‘Something

l Alistair Soyode, CEO of BEN TV

l RAF Media Reserves, Cpl onathan Sarabadu

l Chef Kano with Jonathan Sarabadu and Khori Hyde

l Roland Joseph Tetteh and his daughter

l Khori Hyde with Paul Harrison and Alistair Soyode

Inside So Strong’, followed by their rendition of the Bill Withers classic, ‘Lean On Me.’

To say ‘tears flowed’ after that was an understatement, to say the least.

To see those young, impressionable children perform on stage, in front of a packed room, you’d feel that they were intimidated by that. Not in the slightest! They all took it in their collective strides and received a standing ovation for their efforts.

And, not finishing there, the young boys and girls couldn’t leave the stage until they received special Phoenix gifts – for just being very special young people.

Ghana’s future is bright. No mistake there. And that was just the beginning.

Now, it was time to eat. And, without doubt, if it’s hospitality you’re looking for, the 5-star Mövenpick Hotel had it in spades, as the food laid on, and the staff on-hand made this night very, very special for all concerned – especially us at The Phoenix Newspaper!

But it was onto the Awards, which, with great anticipation, was as follows:

Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Nana Kweku Agyemang Leadership and Empowerment Award

Community Engagement Award

Humanitarian Award

One of the attractions was when Nana Tangme Ababio Mamano came to receive her Community Engagement Award for her work in the Kumasi Ashanti region, she created quite the spectacle with drums and dancing from her seat to the stage.

It was then left to Paul Harrison, who, having emphasized his call to always continue to “support one another,” then led the continuation of the presentations - by this time, The Phoenix Newspaper Baton Awards, which would then bring to a close what was an overwhelmingly awe-inspiring 10th Anniversary Dinner & Gala Awards presentation and Conference, the likes of which WILL live in the memories of all in Ghana, all who were present, and all of us here at The Phoenix Newspaper!

Whilst it was an incredibly immense honour and pleasure to be able to be a part of what took place at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel, to celebrate The Phoenix Newspaper’s 10th Anniversary and to launch Phoenix Africa, this truly was all that was hoped for and expected, plus much, much more! See you next year!

The Phoenix Newspaper would like to thank our Partners, The Nishkam Centre

for their contribution towards this event.

We are grateful that they chose us, and our 10th Anniversary as the platform to launch the Peace Charter in Africa.

We would like to thank our sponsors Victoria Mutual, for their vision and sponsorship of the Be Bold! Conference.

And special recognition goes out to Roland Joseph Tetteh, Content Editor of Phoenix Africa, who has stood by Dr Marcia since 1997 through all of her endeavours.

Also to Dr Alex Akwaeze, whose dedication, determination and desire to make change in his country of Nigeria and has given 8 years of service to this mission.

To Bernard Kwakye, Operations Manager Ghana for Phoenix Africa, and his team, Rhoda Adjowa Ampeaw and Michael Edem Attivor, for their dedication to deliver positivity to Ghana over the last 4 years.

None of this would be possible without a very important 'glue' - our Head of Production and Technical Affairs, Mr Daniel Riley, alongside Mr Steven Williams, Content Editor for The Phoenix Newspaper UK, and Mr Mark Dwayne for Social Media Marketing and Advertising.

Finally, we would like to thank Cpl Jonathan Sarabadu for taking up the challenge of hosting both events, Mr Alistair Soyode for facilitating and moderating the afternoon session of the conference, and Mr Paul Harrison for his expertise in Public Relations and handling our dignitaries and Royal guests.

Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings Educational Excellence Award

Ben Amoako

Nana Tangme Ababio Mamano International Excellence Award

Alistair Soyode Business of the Year

Dr Kwadwo Safo Kantanka

Editor’s Award

‘King’ Chef Kano Charity of the Year Rev. Dr Sam Ato Bentil

Lifetime Achievement Award

Nana Prof Susubribi Krobea Balfour Asante

Naa Bohugu Mahami Abdulai Shiriga

l HRH Nana Amlak with Chef Kano

Diasporians

are owning high-end properties in Jamaica with Moor land Development and mortgage partners Victoria Mutual (VM), as experienced and trusted pillars in real estate development and investment.

Through a series of Expos, Soi rees, and customized chats, VM Ambassador Khori Hyde has awakened the desire of Diaspori ans of the UK and Europe to ac tively pursue their dream to own property in Jamaica. These events were precursor to his recent visit to the Continent of Africa in Sep tember where he met with real es tate business interests.

Gratitude extended to Dr. Mar cia McLaughlin of The Pheonix Newspaper who invited Mr Hyde to the newspaper’s 10th Anniver sary Conference and Gala Awards, held in Ghana, Africa, on Septem ber 29th to 30th 2022. Mr. Hyde embraced this opportunity and delivered an engaging presenta tion to a receptive audience, who, at the end queued up to gain more insight on how they may take the next step to transform their prop erty development and ownership dreams into reality, ranging from social housing solutions in Africa to luxury investment units in Ja

maica. With Mr. Khori Hyde as a VM Brand Ambassador, the Diaspo ra has a familiar, accessible, and trusted avenue to property own ership, whether for personal use or for investment. Moorland De velopment Company has devel oped communities and single-lot properties in Jamaica for over two decades aiming to always deliver “The best of living inspired by nature”. With Victoria Mutual as mortgage partners, they have in deed transformed the everyday of anyone who dared desire property ownership.

Mr Khori Hyde – “Building Communities, Strengthening Affinity, Inspired by Nature”

vibe and an enthusiasm, and a

The singer, songwriter and sol id-gold pop star has been all over our screens recently. He’s been front and centre as host of ITV’s Starstruck, then, he returned to the big swivelly chair on The Voice. But in the artist world – the world that forged him, Olly has been off the radar for over four years. Now, the musician who had four Num ber One singles and four Number One albums in a near-back-toback run after bursting onto the scene with his double-platinum self-titled debut in 2010, is well

The joy and energy of that cre ative process ripple and radiate out from Marry Me. Case in point: ‘Go Ghost’. The playfulness of the lyric is matched by the very Eight ies bounce of the track, like peak

IS BACK MARRY ME!

A-Ha for the social media age. Murs met his partner in 2019, an other big change. This life-chang ing jolt is reflected in another new song. ‘I Found Her’ is a big tune with big energy and a big, soaring synth line.

Also bringing the good-time party vibes is ‘Dancing on Cars’, a tune with an exuberant ‘Pull Up To The Bumper’ feel. And if

all been enormously successful. The stats speak for themselves: 6 multi-platinum albums, 4 #1 UK albums, 4 #1 UK singles, 6 mil lion spotify monthly listeners, 800 million Youtube views & 1.8 mil lion tour tickets sold.

Olly is sure to have people dancing – if not proposing – in the aisles next year, when he gets back on tour. Last time round he

This is the Essex-machine at his happiest, too. How do we know?

The clue is in the album title: Marry Me. The answer? Hint: she said yes…Anything else to declare – other, of course, than ‘I do’?.......... “I'm buzzing! I've got my music. I know where I am now."

You can catch Olly at: April

Fri 21st Glasgow, OVO Hydro

Sat 22nd Newcastle, Utilita Arena

Mon 24th Cardiff, International Arena

Thu 27th Nottingham, Motor point Arena

Fri 28th Leeds, First Direct Arena

Sat 29th London, The O2 Arena

May

Mon 1st Bournemouth, Interna tional Centre

Tue 2nd Brighton, Brighton

has shared details

of UK and European dates for her ‘The Spe cial Tour’ in 2023.

The pop star, who kicks off the tour in North America in support of her latest album, ‘Special‘, will play 15 dates across Europe and the UK next year.

It begins at Oslo’s Spektrum on February 17 before wrapping at The O2 in London on March 15.

Those with American Express cards in Norway, Netherlands, Bel gium, France, Italy and the UK can purchase tickets in a pre-sale.

Meanwhile, last week Li made history by becoming the first person in two centuries to play the Library of Congress’ 200-year-old crys tal flute. The huge moment took place last Tuesday (September 27) at Lizzo’s Washington DC show where she played the flute which was originally owned by the fourth president of the United States, James Madison.

Sharing a clip of the performance on Twitter after the show, Lizzo wrote: “NOBODY HAS EVER HEARD THIS FAMOUS CRYS TAL FLUTE BEFORE […] NOW YOU HAVE.”

“I’M THE FIRST AND ONLY PEROSN TO EVER PLAY THIS

Lizzo Announces Dates For Her 2023 UK And European Tour

PRESIDENTIAL 200-YEAR-OLD CRYSTAL FLUTE – THANK YOU @librarycongress.”

During her set, Lizzo – who is a classically trained flautist – will

also provide her fans with in sight into her classical history. Joy Crooks will support Lizzo on all UK dates.

Fortnite Games Creator Building An Immersive Experience For Drivers

VISUALISATION

technology will be in Birmingham soon, allowing drivers to purchase electric cars with advanced 3D animations and immersive graphics.

Volvo Cars has collaborated with Epic Games, best known for its globally successful videogame, Fortnite, to bring unparalleled high-quality graphics to its upcoming range of electric cars. The partnership will allow the next generation of Volvo cars to showcase advanced displays that feature sharper renderings, richer colours and brand-new 3D animations.

Within the next 18 months, the technology will allow Birmingham drivers to purchase electric cars from Paul Rigby Birmingham on Chester Road that include Volvo’s next-generation infotainment system. This will be more than twice as fast as its predecessor, creating a cutting-edge user experience.

The first car to contain the new graphics is the new, all-electric flagship model that Volvo Cars

will reveal later this year. The model will be the first of a new generation of all-electric Volvo cars, as the company aims to sell only pure electric cars by 2030.

Andy Kirkham, Sales Director at Paul Rigby Birmingham, said: “This collaboration is another exciting step forward on our journey to ramp up the electrification of motoring through a range of cars that provide the best possible user experience.

“This technology will offer our customers a rich, immersive and responsive visualisation inside their cars, which not only provides an innovative experience for the driver, but for passengers, too. The interactive design and high-resolution graphics, which function in real time, will provide a fresh and modern motoring experience that is sure to entertain everyone in the car.

“We look forward to sharing this technology with our customers in our new, allelectric flagship model.” Volvo Cars has one of the most ambitious electrification plans in the automotive industry."

Final 20 cars revealed TO compete for the Lancaster Pride of Ownership title

Fromover 80 entries from private owners, the 20 finalists have been selected for their diversity, history and, in some cases, rarity.

Andrew Evanson, Senior Operations Manager of Lancaster Insurance, sponsors of the Pride of Ownership, said: “The display is firmly established as a fan favourite and it’s because you are always guaranteed to see some incredible classics and hear some special stories too, and this year has certainly not disappointed. The beauty of this competition really is that anyone, and their classic, can take home the trophy and we can’t wait to crown them in November.”

The oldest of the finalists is a 1938 Austin 10 Cambridge owned by Paddy Doherty while the youngest is Aaron Patel’s 1998 Bentley Turbo R. In between is a fantastic mix of ages with seven cars representing the swinging ‘60s including Adrian Liepins’ 1960 TVR Grantura, once called ‘the worse car he’d ever driven’ by the late Jim Clark OBE, and Ian Croft’s 1968 Lotus Elan, previously owned by racing driver Graham Hill.

Adrian Howells’ 1972 Aston Martin DBS V8, heralded as the World’s fastest saloon car when it was launched, will be joined by a

trio of classics from the disco era including Louise Barrett’s 1976 William Cyclo, believed to be only one of two in existence. The 1980s are covered by Stephen Cheape’s 1981 Ford Fiesta 950 Popular, Philip Egan’s quirky 1985 Honda Acty, David Roberts’ freshly restored 1985 Nissan Cherry, and Mick Jones’ original 1983 BMW 316 Baur Convertible.

There is tough competition from the ‘90s as Jamie Eglinton’s 1992

Rover Mini, Andrew Ray’s 1993 Vauxhall Nova GSi, and Lez Dix’s 1995 Ginetta G33 RV8, battle it out for the visitor votes. While all finalists receive a certificate, the winner and two runners up all receive trophies and a year’s free car insurance from Lancaster Insurance up to the value of £250 (T&C apply).

The overall winner will also be offered the chance to display their car at the next event held by the

organisers – as well as the obvious bragging rights. Previous winners include Jake Clappison’s 1979 Triumph Spitfire, Ted Brookes’ 1961 Morris Minor Million and Laura Godtschalk and her 1992 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet. The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show, with discovery+, is scheduled to be held at Birmingham’s NEC from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 November 2022.

live at the Barbican during last year’s London Jazz Festival, White Juju is award-winning British saxophonist and rapper Sowe to Kinch’s powerful new work for jazz quartet and symphony orchestra, written in response to lockdown, BLM, British history and the culture wars.

The album, set for release in conjunction with LSO Live on December 3rd, highlights Kinch’s distinct approach to jazz and hip hop with classical mu sic—drawing broad inspiration from European folklore, the Af rican Diaspora and divisive na tional myths to create a uniquely contemporary tone poem.

A summer of racially-led po lice violence, the murder of Sarah Everard and discussions around ‘essential’ workers meant the nation was beginning to draw causal links between, racism, misogyny, class and en vironmental degradation.

This reassessment, contrasted starkly with government mis management, disinformation and a noisy and disorientating culture war—all provided rich inspiration for Kinch’s work, White Juju.

Towards the end of the first lockdown, Kinch visited Liver pool, Salford, Hull and Cardiff

with a small group of musicians and dancers, staging a socially distanced version of The Black Peril as an online festival. As he walked the streets, he was struck by imperial emblems, flags and statues in these British port cit ies—innumerable mock Elgin marbles, Queen Victoria statues, Union Jacks and military monu ments that, in the previous bustle of city life, went relatively unno ticed.

“It fascinates me how we’re all acquainted with an unspo

ken architectural and symbolic language of power” says Kinch.

“How do these monuments or myths affect how we see our selves as a nation? Naming the piece White Juju deliberately inverted ideas of the ‘savage’ or primitive. Perhaps the bizarre fetishes and obsessions of a cult religion are more visible in modern Britain than third world countries.”

Through White Juju Soweto invites listeners to join him in poking fun at hypocrisies as he

confronts awkward truths about a nation, but also to feel the ca tharsis of being truly freed from a spell.

White Juju will be released digitally on Friday 2 December 2022 via all major streaming and download services and will be available to pre-order from Friday 4 November. Following the release of the digital album, White Juju will be made availa ble on vinyl on Friday 14 April 2023 to coincide with Record Store Day on Saturday 15 April.

TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL

Anastacia: I'm Outta

- the 22nd Anniversary (SH)

Silent Movie Special: Nosferatu (TH)

Bells with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra (SH)

John Cale (TH)

Sayer (TH)

05 Gospel Goes Charity 2022 (TH)

06 Vaughan Williams at 150: A Sea Symphony (SH)

10 Lightning Seeds Plus Very Special Guests Badly Drawn Boy (TH)

11 CBSO Vaughan Williams at 150: Scott of the Antarctic (SH)

11 Jason Byrne: Unblocked (TH)

12-13 Squeeze Food for Thought Tour: Special Guest Dr John Cooper Clarke (SH)

13 Ex Cathedra 2022/23 Songs of Protest (TH)

14 An Evening with Ricky Hatton (TH)

15 B:Music Presents Xhosa ColeIBEJI with Hamid Drake & Soweto Kinch (SH)

16 Low: Hey What (TH)

19 Judy Collins (TH)

21 Lunchtime Organ Concert with Thomas Trotter (TH)

23 Clinton Baptiste: Clinton Vs. Ramone (TH)

24 Woman to Woman (TH)

24 Leyla McCalla - Breaking The Thermometer (SH)

25 Jimmy Carr: Terribly Funny (SH)

26 B:Classical 2022/23: Sinfonia of London (SH)

27 The Four Seasons by Candlelight (SH)

28 The Australian Pink Floyd (SH)

29 An Evening with Noel Fitzpatrick (TH)

30 Joanne Shaw Taylor (TH)

Soweto Kinch responds to lockdown, BLM and British History on new album ‘White Juju’ feat London Symphony Orchestra

The Beat Announces Ranking Roger Hometown Memorial

Legendary British band The Beat will celebrate the life of its late frontman and musical pioneer Ranking Roger with a special one-off evening of live music at The Mill, in Birmingham.

Fronted by Roger’s son and vocalist Ranking Jnr, who performed and recorded with his late father for close to two decades, the evening will feature a full performance from the Birmingham trailblazers plus very special guests from the worlds of ska, reggae, and punk.

The Ranking Roger Memorial Show will offer fans and friends of the frontman a chance to remember the ‘Mirror in the Bathroom’ and ‘Hands Off She’s Mine’ vocalist – often described as ‘Birmingham’s first Black punk’ – and the influence and cultural impact Roger had

during over three decades in the international music business.

The line-up includes a number of special moments soon to be revealed by the band, along with a four-hour post-show DJ set from the Ranking Roger Sound System led by Howard Hall aka Double H, featuring previously unheard ‘dubs’ starring the late, great Ranking Roger.

Ranking Jnr said: “We feel that now is the right time to celebrate the legacy of my dad, my best friend, my mentor, the guy who taught me everything I know about the music industry, and the man I stood side by side with on stage for the last 20 years.”

Real name Roger Charlery, Ranking Roger – who joined The Beat in Birmingham in 1978 - passed away in 2019 after battling multiple brain tumours and lung cancer. He passed away at the age of just 56.

IT’S PANTOMIME TIME AT TELFORD THEATRE

ThisChristmas, Telford & Wrekin Council are delighted to announce Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs is coming to Telford Theatre from 8 December to 2 January.

Starring EastEnders and Dancing On Ice Winner – Sam Attwater as The Prince, back by popular demand, the hilarious –Ian Smith as Dame Dolly, comedy star – Carl Dutfield as Muddles, local favourite – Chloe Barlow as Snow White, 90s Pop Star ‘Lolly’ – Anna Kumble as The Wicked Queen and singing sensation –Sophie Jane Walters as Fairy Fortune.

The beautiful Snow White and her seven little friends from the enchanted forest can be seen as they attempt to defeat the evil Wicked Queen who is overcome with jealously when her magic mirror declares that Snow White is the fairest in all the land. Will Snow White meet her handsome Prince and live happily ever after? There’s only one way to find out… Councuollr Carolyn Healy, cabinet member for climate change, green spaces, natural and historic environment and cultural services, said: “You may have noticed that we have a new

name here at the theatre – Telford Theatre.

"We have been known as The Place for a number of years now. The decision to refresh the name

was based on feedback from the community and our ambition to host performances in locations outside of the main theatre building such as outdoor theatre in

Wellington and Telford Town Park taking our Telford Theatre name with us”.

THE CHURCH THAT MIXES BAPTISMS WITH BODY SLAMS

TheFountains Church is regularly filled with of spandexclad wrestlers being slammed onto canvas and cheers of delight from those assembled in the most unlikely of venues for a grapple.

As one of Bradford's betterknown landmarks the Church of England has been combining baptisms and body slams, with GT Ministries providing direction and purpose for young people in the city - whatever their beliefs - who may have lost their way in life.

Dressed in a ‘Pray Eat Wrestle Repeat’ T-shirt, Gareth ‘Angel’ Thompson opened his wrestling ministry to help those who may have been forced to navigate difficult childhoods and volatile family situations.

Describing himself as a Christian, father, husband and

pro-wrestler, he says: "You look at the word 'wrestling' - they are wrestling with their demons, insecurities, their past, their circumstances." The fatherof-two hopes the sport and its setting can help to save young people, much like they saved him as a child.

Gareth (35) was sexually abused between the ages of seven and eight and slept in a retail park bin for two months after his mother, who had issues with alcohol, kicked him out on the streets. He never returned home and stayed in hostels before finding work.

"The two things that helped me get my life back on track are wrestling and the church," he says. "The driving force behind the training school is sharing my story and using my past to help others - maybe someone who comes in the door hears

something, that's the start of their journey."

The low-cost training nights attract about 15 people per session, with a fundraiser successfully hitting a £3,000 target for the church to buy a wrestling ring.

A Christian for 10 years, Gareth continues: "Wrestling happens here on a Thursday, you've got food given to the homeless on Saturday and church on a Sunday. It's a little bit of everything for everyone, it's pretty awesome."

Church leader Linda Maslen, who helped to carry out some baptisms during a recent wrestling event there, says: "I met Gareth three years ago, he said 'this may sound crazy but I'm a pro wrestler, I think we could use this'. That ultimately led to us buying a wrestling ring and we thought there

actually could be an emerging worshipping community coming out of this."

Gareth says: "This idea of doing a wrestling church is not beyond reality, church can be

whatever you need it to be to fit the audience. Jesus didn't set out a model saying church needs to be X, Y, Z."

Laila Targets Local Schoolchildren With Diwali Competition Launch

LEADING UK RICE BRAND, Laila, invited schools and playgroups across the country to take part in a rangoli art competition for a chance to win goodies for their school – including an annual elephant adoption with world renowned wildlife charity Born Free. The competition was part of a major national campaign by Laila to raise awareness of Diwali, also known as the ‘festival of lights’, and brought the much-loved South Asian festival to a wider UK audience.

The campaign also saw thousands of festive Laila, golden foil wrapped hollow chocolate elephants make their debut in Tesco stores across the UK aimed at both an ethnic and mainstream audience. A key part of Laila’s 2022 Diwali campaign was its partnership with the world-renowned, wild animal charity Born Free – the inspiration behind Laila’s elephant themed treats.

The Asian elephant is classified as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and 10% of net profits from the sale of Laila’s Diwali chocolate elephants will be donated to Born Free’s global elephant conservation work. Meanwhile, special promotional Laila rice gift boxes, which feature a Laila elephant soft toy are helping promote Born Free’s Adopt an Elephant programme.

BIRMINGHAM

HIPPODROME and Bullring & Grand Central presented their ‘Sharing the Light – Welcome Diwali’, a large-scale outdoor participatory performance event at Bullring & Grand Central.

Co-produced by Sonia Sabri Company and German Puppeteers Dundu – The Giants of Light, visitors to Bullring & Grand Central were greeted by dhol drummers and dance performances and had their first interactive introduction

to Dundu’s breath-taking light puppets at St Martin’s Square.

Processing to and from Rotunda Square, via a colourful installation of hundreds of Diwali lanterns created by local school groups, they were joined by community groups for a mass dance event – a short dance routine created by Sonia Sabri Dance Company, inspired by South Asian Dance forms, which was digitally distributed in advance so that participants on the night could learn the dance

in advance and join in. The event will culminate with a firework finale to welcome the annual Diwali celebrations.

Following the performances, visitors to Bullring & Grand Central enjoyed lantern making workshops, the creation of a giant Rangoli as well as dance workshops, led by Sonia Sabri Dance Company, all inside Bullring & Grand Central – near The Entertainer.

TO CELEBRATE

Itwas after a lengthy…ish engagement before Tom & Caron became Mr & Mrs Tom and Caron Arscott, but to see the immense glow of love, that shines for each other, since they became “ONE”, since this last August, it’s evident that theirs is a love that was always meant to be.

And, in consolidating their eter nal union, through marriage, it was plain to see, from family and friends, that for them, no one will ever put asunder.

sourcing fashion, whilst dressing and pampering ladies for every given occasion, theirs was the ul timate wedding, that confirmed a marriage that, for all who know them, that will last for years to come – and, by seeing the love they have for each other, well be yond!

ARSCOTT

For Tom, who, for over 20 years, runs the hugely successful, and incredibly tasty, family-run Tasty Pastry patty food business, in Bir mingham and Selfridges fashion advisory, Caron, who has exten sive experience in advising and

In front of his three sisters - Jan ice, Kim and Ann - and brother, Trevor, plus sons and nephews and nieces, and under the theme of ‘Orange’, a beaming Tom always knew exquisitely tasteful Caron was always destined to be THE ONE for him.

So, it’s a beautiful ‘CONGRAT ULATIONS’ to the beautiful Tom & Caron Arscott. This, without doubt, is union that was made in Heaven!

Council Provides Additional Support To Adult Social Care Sector

Around100 adult social care providers are benefitting from additional support from the City of Wolverhampton Council to help them cope with pressures from increased energy costs and rising inflation.

It includes financial support already totalling £240,000 for registered care homes, extra care, home care and supported living providers – with more expected to receive financial support in the coming days. A range of practical measures have also been put in place to further support the adult social care sector.

Councillor Linda Leach, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: "Our adult social care providers have already experienced an incredibly tough couple of years because of the Covid-19 pandemic, and now they are having to deal with a potent mix of rising energy costs and inflation.

"The additional support we are now providing comes on top of the increase of up to 10% in the amount we pay providers we implemented earlier this year, and which has already helped providers to retain staff and deliver continuity of care to service users. This means we have put more than an extra £4m into adult social care this financial year, bringing our total investment to nearly £80m in 2022-23.

"But it's not just financial support that we are giving to the sector. We are holding regular meetings with stakeholders across health and social care so that, together, we can share best practice, improve collaboration and help plan in advance so that we can mitigate issues before they occur.

"We are also looking to help recruitment within the sector and have launched the Wolverhampton Care Association JobMatch programme to support care providers with recruitment and marketing activity.”

She added: "The city's social care sector has a vital role to play in supporting our most vulnerable residents, and we want to ensure it is as strong and vibrant as it can be. We also want to make it a more attractive sector for people to work in, particularly as demand for services continues to rise.

“We believe this package of measures will help meet both these ambitions." The support is part of the Wolverhampton Cares initiative, launched by the council and key partners last year to help the local health and social care sector through the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond.

BLACK DONORS URGED TO GIVE BLOOD TO HELP TREAT SICKLE CELL PATIENTS

TheNHS is urgently calling for Black donors to give blood to help people with sickle cell disease as the demand for donations reaches record levels.

About 250 donations are needed every day to help treat the blood disorder in England. But currently only about half of all hospital requests are being met with matched blood, the NHS says.

Sickle cell mostly affects people of Black heritage and ethnically matched blood gives the best

treatment. The disease, which is the fastest-growing genetic condition in the UK, causes red blood cells to distort and become sticky, blocking vessels and restricting oxygen supply, which triggers excruciating pain.

Many patients need regular blood transfusions to stay alive. Five years ago, 150 donations a day were needed. Now that figure is at 250, with the demand projected to keep on rising.

NHS Blood and Transplant say this is due to patients living longer and the increased use of complete blood transfusions,

which has improved patient outcomes. About 55% of Black people have a Ro blood type, compared to 2% of the wider population.

The urgent call from the NHS Blood and Transplant service comes as it launches a Black History Month campaign to highlight how Black communities have the power to help treat sickle cell and provide life-changing blood donations.

Dr Rekha Anand, a consultant in transfusion medicine, said: "There has been a small rise in Black people donating blood,

but we urgently need more to become regular donors. Giving blood is easy, quick and safeand you will save and improve lives."

The regional director for London for the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, Professor Kevin Fenton, said: "Being able to provide high quality clinical care to sickle cell patients both saves and improves the quality of their lives and is an important step in helping tackle health inequalities."

People can check their eligibility to donate online.

Alzheimer's Slowing Drug Labelled As Historic

TRIAL RESULTS of a drug appearing to slow Alzheimer's disease represent a "historic moment", experts say.

Pharmaceutical companies Eisai and Biogen have said their drug works when given in the early stages of the disease. The full details have yet to published, but it appears to slow the pace of the brain's decline. And even the limited data has generated excitement among dementia scientists and charities.

The drug, lecanemab, is designed to remove clumps of toxic beta-amyloid proteins that build up in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease. Dozens of other drug trials have failed, leading to questions about whether amyloid was really causing the disease.

In the trial, 1,795 volunteers in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease were injected with lecanemab every two weeks and regularly had their memory and mental agility tested. The pace of cognitive decline had been reduced by 27% over the course of the 18-month trial, compared with people given a dummy, or placebo, treatment, the pharmaceutical companies said.

They also showed levels of the toxic protein were lowered in the brain. Side-effects included brain swelling and headaches. The drug will not work for other forms of dementia.

Holiday and Travel

BOOK A HOLIDAY TO SEE

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

Onceseen, never forgotten, The Aurora Zone would like to share the fascinating Northern Lights with its guests, offering more than 60 activity holidays to Finland, Sweden, Iceland and Norway, providing travellers with the very best chance of experiencing the captivating Northern Lights.

The Northern Lights are beautiful ripples of bright greens, turquoise blues, with slight tinges of violet and even sometimes pink and red lights that have captivated people for centuries.

They are one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World and appear

at the top of most people's bucket lists, year after year.

They are a naturally occurring phenomenon that are very dependent on solar activity which makes the Northern Lights difficult to predict.

Our sun goes through an activity cycle – Solar Maximum (highest solar activity) and Solar Minimum (lowest solar activity) – that lasts about 11 years. The Northern Lights are more prevalent during Solar Maximum, the last of which occurred in 2014.

We are currently in solar cycle 25, which means the Northern Lights will peak from now for the next four years – so it's the perfect

time to book a trip to see the aurora borealis.

Indeed, on 2 October 2022, NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) captured an image of a powerful solar flare emitted by the sun. The flare, which peaked at 4:25 pm EDT classified as an X1 flare, which means it's at the strongest end of the scale.

According to NASA, the sun has emitted three solar flares, 18 coronal mass ejections, and one geomagnetic storm in the past week showing it's well on its way towards Solar Maximum.

Named after Aurora (Roman goddess of dawn) and Boreas

(Greek god of the north wind), the Northern Lights occur when charged particles (electrons and protons) from the sun connect with the Earth's magnetic field lines and filter down to where they emanate from, our northern and southern poles.

The particles then collide with atoms and molecules (Oxygen and Nitrogen) in the Earth's upper atmosphere and increase the energy they hold; the molecules then release this energy as a photon of light.

This process fills the sky with colourful lights; and as billions of flashes occur in sequence, the auroras appear to move.

Hotelier Upbeat About Barbados Tourism

Aleading

hotelier in Barbados says things are beginning to look up for tourism in Barbados, and as stronger air capacity returns to the island, there is encouraging news out of the U.S. market.

Patricia Affonso-Dass, Group General Manager of Ocean Hotels in Barbados, noted that it’s been a long work in progress trying to diversify markets, “and we’re actually seeing big growth out of the U.S. market.”

Speaking before the start of last week’s Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace in San Juan, Puerto Rico, she said: “I think the pound (sterling), obviously it’s a concern because the weak pound is not a good thing for Barbados, but you’re starting to see some slight correction to that and I think over

time hopefully it will move in the right direction.

Meanwhile,” she continued, “I think we’ve been responsive in terms of working with our partners to make sure that we are staying ahead of what the customers want, making sure we’re providing an excellent experience and that the value customers receive when they come to Barbados is exceptional.”

Senator Lisa Cummins, Barbados’ Minister of Tourism and International Transport, recently reported that despite global airlift challenges, Barbados is forecast to return to at least 80 percent of 2019 visitation levels by the end of this year.

Noteworthy for Barbados will be the opening of Wyndham Grand Barbados (former Sam Lord's Castle) this December.

Jamaica’s Kevin Hendrickson Named Caribbean Hotelier Of The Year

Distinguished

Jamaican hotelier and businessman Kevin Hendrickson has been declared Caribbean Hotelier of the Year by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA).

The award was presented during CHTA’s historic Caribbean Travel Forum yesterday ahead of the official opening of the 40th Caribbean Travel Marketplace in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Hendrickson, Courtleigh Hospitality Group’s Managing Director, is known for his support of many tourismrelated organizations, including the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), the Jamaica Tourist Board, and the Tourism Linkages Council.

He owns and operates The Jamaica Pegasus, The Courtleigh Hotel &

Suites and Knutsford Court Hotel in New Kingston, and Holiday Inn Resort in Montego Bay.

Among his many accolades and awards, Hendrickson is the recipient of JHTA’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the Hospitality Jamaica Hotel Personality of the Year, the Jamaican Order of Distinction with the rank of Commander, and the American Foundation for the University of the West Indies Award for Excellence in Business Leadership. He also received a proclamation from the United States House of Representatives for his community leadership.

Hendrickson’s love of tourism and his homeland is evidenced not only in his professional hospitality endeavors, but also in the investments he has made in Jamaica’s local economy

through businesses such as Yummy Bakery and its subsidiaries. He also sits on the board of trustees for his alma mater, Saint Leo University.

Among those sharing congratulatory messages to the hotelier were Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett and Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who hailed Hendrickson’s many successes and his multiple contributions to the advancement of tourism in Jamaica and the region.

“I want to add my voice of congratulations on winning the Caribbean Hotelier of the Year Award, quite a significant and prestigious award to add to your already prestigious Courtleigh brand. Congratulations!” stated Prime Minister Holness.

l Kevin Hendrickson (second from left) receives the Caribbean Hotelier of the Year award from former winner Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman, Sandals Resorts International. At left is Nicola Madden-Greig, President, Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association.

Nigeria Marks 62 Years Of Independance With Colourful Parade And Cultural Displays

DIGNITARIES INCLUDING President Muhammadu Buhari gathered at the Eagle Square in Abuja for the 62nd Independence Day Anniversary parade, with attendees including the wife of the President, Aisha Buhari; former President Goodluck Jonathan; Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo and his wife, Dolapo; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha; Senate President Ahmad Lawan; and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

The service chiefs and several diplomats were also in attendance as well as several ministers and Kassim Shettima, the running mate to the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate Bola Tinubu.

Buhari, accompanied by the Commander of the Guards Brigade, inspected the parade, his last in eight years since he assumed office in May 2015. Earlier, the President in his last Independence Day Anniversary broadcast message said he would leave a legacy of free and fair elections as Nigerians go to the polls next year to elect another set of political office holders for four years.

He also identified with the pains of millions of Nigerians, assuring them that their resilience and patience would not be in vain.

In his last Independence Day Anniversary address, the President said: “I share the pains Nigerians are going through and I assure you that your resilience and patience would not be in vain as this administration continues to reposition as well as strengthen the security agencies to enable them to deal with all forms of security challenges".

The President further urged striking lecturers of public universities to call off their over seven-month-old strike and return to the classrooms.

UNITED STATES STEPS UP CLIMATE INVESTMENTS IN PACIFIC ISLANDS

PresidentBiden announced $810 million in funding for Pacific island nations, part of an increasing U.S. commitment to long-standing partners. “Security in the Pacific and for the Pacific Islanders remains as critical as ever to us,” he said at the first U.S.–Pacific Island Country Summit in Washington, which drew 15 countries.

Over the last decade, the United States has directly provided more than $1.5 billion to the Pacific islands, the White House said in a fact sheet. The $810 million includes $130 million to address the consequences of climate change, which the president called an “existential threat” to the Pacific islands.

The climate funding will help Pacific island nations prepare for climate impacts on public

health and food security and bolster early warning systems for extreme weather events. It will leverage an additional $400 million in private financing.

Biden said the September summit was “about deepening our enduring commitment to each other around our shared future; our commitment to tackling the climate crisis, which threatens all of us.”

The president unveiled the first Pacific Partnership Strategy for prioritizing U.S. engagement with Pacific island nations and boosting prosperity in the region. The strategy builds on the United States’ Indo-Pacific strategy issued in February affirming America’s commitment to its Indo-Pacific partners and outlining steps for greater cooperation.

The recently announced assistance also includes the Biden administration’s support

for $600 million in economic assistance over 10 years associated with the South Pacific Tuna Treaty. This assistance, if approved by Congress, will support fisheries-related economic development, climate resilience and maritime security. The Biden administration will work with Congress to deliver these funding commitments.

On the summit’s opening day, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, “This summit is the latest effort on the part of this administration to hear directly from you about your priorities, your ideas, your hopes for the future of the region and the world, and especially how we can work together to try to achieve them.”

Empowering Girls In Southeast Asia Through STEM

“STEM BRINGS out a lot of career choices for women,” says Indonesian high school student Karin Agnesia Ignotius, a participant in Women in Science Camp (WiSci), a recent State Department program.

“The normalization of women working and participating in the STEM field will help society to understand that women can do things as good as men.” Three U.S. embassies coordinated on the WiSci Camp for female secondary-school students in Southeast Asia. Private grants made the program accessible to girls from Indigenous communities and lowerincome households.

“It was a great experience to empower the girls in the STEM field, to encourage the girls to support other women,” Sukarti said. Her favorite part was the opportunity to offer “a model on how girls can raise their voices as equal as their male counterparts.”

In addition to electrical-circuit problem solving, they learned the mathematical differences between probability and chance, and listened to lectures and training from female leaders in STEM positions.

l Above, two U.S. Coast Guard members host Youky Susaia Jr. (middle) of the Federated States of Micronesia's National Oceanic Resource Management Authority during a stop in Pohnpei, Micronesia, September 16. (U.S. Coast Guard)

l A counsellor helps a camper attach electrical components to a paper cup to create a scribble bot in Kedah, Malaysia, in July

New Law May Force Landlords To Pass On £400 Rebate

LANDLORDS WILL be forced through legislation to pass on the £400 energy rebate to tenants with all-inclusive bills, the government says.

Charities had raised concerns that tenants whose bills are included in their rent could miss out because the rebate is paid to their landlord. But a body representing landlords said plans for legislation demonised them.

The government confirmed legislation would be introduced to make sure landlords pass on the discount as it announced its energy support for businesses. It had previously said it expected landlords to pass on the rebate but had not said there would be legislation to enforce this.

A package of measures to help households with the rising cost of living, including a £400 discount on energy bills. The money is being paid in six instalments, with a discount of £66 already applied to energy bills, with £67 a month from December to March 2023.

How the money is received will depend on how you pay your bill. However, for tenants whose energy bills are included in their rent, their landlord would receive the discount as they are the bill payer.

Thegovernment has announced a cut to stamp duty, the tax paid when people buy a property in England and Northern Ireland. The threshold at which the tax falls due has been raised to £250,000 from its current £125,000 level.

Meanwhile the threshold for first-time buyers has been increased from £300,000 to £425,000. The changes should remove 200,000 people from having to pay stamp duty, Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng said.

He also increased the value of the property on which first-time

buyers can claim stamp duty relief from £500,000 to £625,000.

A buyer splashing out £500,000 on a home will now be charged £12,500 rather than the previous £15,000.

As he presented his minibudget, Mr Kwarteng told the Commons:"Home ownership is the most common route for people to own an asset, giving them a stake in the success of our economy and society. This is a permanent cut to stamp duty."

Different rates apply in Scotland under the Land and Buildings Transaction Tax, and in Wales with the Land Transaction Tax.

STAMP DUTY CUT SET TO AID HOUSE BUYERS

Under the changes announced by the chancellor, anyone spending £250,000 on a property in England or Northern Ireland will avoid £2,500 in stamp duty charges as it was previously charged at 2% between £125,000 and £250,000.

Anyone other than first-time buyers spending £300,000 will now be charged £2,500, rather than the previous £5,000. However, some first-time buyers said the increase in the stamp duty threshold would not help.

London estate agent Jeremy Leaf said: "The stamp duty cut should encourage those at the first rung of the housing ladder to take

the plunge. He said that would be good not just for the market but for job and social mobility across the board, as well as the wider economy.

But rising interest rates, which will mean more costly mortgages, are set to weigh on the housing market, said Tom Bill, head of UK residential research at Knight Frank.

"Many buyers will find the impact of rising mortgage rates soon eclipses the benefit of a stamp duty cut, which will keep firm downwards pressure on prices next year."

Recycling Charity Receives £1k

Donation From Nottinghamshire Homebuilder

BARRATT AND David Wilson Homes has made a £1,000 donation to Recycling Ollerton and Boughton, a charity that supports adults with learning disabilities.

Based in Boughton, Newark, the charity received the donation as part of the developer’s Community Fund scheme which sees a different charity each month receive a £1,000 donation.

Over the years, Recycling Ollerton and Boughton has expanded its operations to incorporate 11 local villages in the north of Nottinghamshire, with fortnightly glass collections.

It has also developed a Business Waste Recycling operation where it provides a cardboard and paper waste collection service to over 100 local businesses.

Neil Pike, CEO at Recycling Ollerton and Boughton, said: “We operate with a fleet of five trucks and a minibus and have 39 people with learning disabilities attend each week, some for just one day, but others for two to five days depending on their personal needs.

"The general premise of our charity is to provide a supported work placement to adults with learning disabilities who want to be active and want to go to work.

“The funding went towards paying for our guys to have a trip to the pantomime at The Palace Theatre in Newark. After such a tough time with dealing with the pandemic, it was fantastic to get everybody together in a social setting for the first time in 18 months.”

Founded in 1999, Recycling Ollerton and Boughton grew from a group at Nottinghamshire County Council’s Whitewater Day Service, which was run by two parents, Mike and Joan Tomlinson. The group began with a pilot scheme, collecting aluminium cans and newspapers from 200 houses in the area.

l Barratt and David Wilson Homes' Simon Brooks (Finance Manager) with Recycling Ollerton and Boughton's Mark Simpson & Neil Pike (CEO)

£60 Million

Fund To Boost Investment And Access To Sport And Culture In The West Midlands

THE UK government will invest around £60 million of underspend from the Birmingham 2022 budget in the West Midlands to enhance the legacy of the brilliant Commonwealth Games hosted earlier this year.

The fund will aim to increase access to sport and culture, boost the West Midlands’s reputation as a world-class host for major events and drive inward investment and tourism.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) will work with the West Midlands Combined Authority and Birmingham City Council to capitalise on the success of the Games and help more people engage with sport and culture in the region. The funding will also be allocated to boost inward business investment and tourism and help drive further economic growth in the West Midlands.

The Commonwealth Games was backed by £778 million of public funding, providing the West Midlands with a refurbished athletics stadium in Perry Barr and a brand-new aquatics centre in Smethwick. Alongside these world-class venues, the £60 million investment will support the region’s ambition to host future major events.

Councilor Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “I am pleased the unspent money allocated to deliver the biggest and best event staged in Birmingham’s history will be retained in the city and wider region to strengthen the Games’ legacy. It is only fair that our robust financial management is recognised in this way.

“The funding will help us stage an annual international festival, bid for other major events that will further boost our economy, develop plans for a new museum of science and industry, launch a long-term study tracking the impact of the Games on local people and offer support to grassroots sporting and cultural organisations.”

This investment builds on existing legacy programmes already being rolled out. In partnership with DCMS, Sport England will continue to boost access to sport through a Birmingham 2022 kit giveaway. 16,000 items from basketballs to bibs will be gifted to West Midlands community groups in the coming months.

Birmingham 2022 was the bestselling Commonwealth Games to be held in the UK with over 1.5 million tickets sold, and the most watched Games on the BBC’s digital platforms with 57.1 million streams.

QATAR'S FIFA WORLD CUP

IN

TheFIFA 2022 World Cup is only days away and, as per almost every tournament previously, the 'usual suspects' are there again - as favourites for winning the thing, with 5-times winners, Brazil, leading many a poll as the time most likely to lift the gold trophy.

Followed by holders, France, England are also up there - as third favourites in Qatar, whilst South Anerican giants, Argentina are slightly ahead of European World Cup stalwarts, Spain and Germany. Runnig from November 20, this will be the 22nd edition of the ultimate international

football competition. But it will, however, be the very first time that FIFA is taking the competition to the Middle East, with Qatay this very first nation to be host there.

In another brave step by the world governing body to break away from what used to be seen as a 'EuropeanAmerica' stronghold, FIFA's efforts to make it a truly 'world' World Cup must bein the whole - commended.

Furthermore, there is yet another 'first', in the coming weeks as Stephanie Frappart makes groundbreaking history as one of three women to referees to officiate in the World Cup in its's 92 years.

It will not be the first time for French national,

Frappart, to referee a 'highlevel, high-octane football match. In 2019, she took charge of UEFA Super Cup Final between Chelsea and Liverpool and, that year, also refereed the FIFA Women’s World Cup Final between the USA & the Netherlands.

The other two female FIFA Qatar World Cup officials are Japanese national, Yoshimi Yamashita and Rwandan native, Salima Mukansanga. And the history-making continues as the hosts, Qatar, will have its first referee in the tournament’s history, as Abdulrahman Al-Jassim will be taking his place, as one of the 36 referees to take part in one of sport's greatest ever occasions.

Women’s World Athlete

Of The Year 2022 Shortlist Announced

Jamaican

sprinters Shelly-Ann FraserPryce and Shericka Jackson are among the 10 nominees for World Athletics' Women's Athlete of the Year award. World 400m champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo of the Bahamas and Kenya's 1500m world champion Faith Kipyegon are also on the list.

Five athletes will be shortlisted in November before the winner is announced in December. Jamaican sprinter Elaine Thompson-Herah won last year's award.

It has been a stand-out year for 35-year-old FraserPryce, who won a record fifth women's 100m world title and ran the fourth-fastest women's 100m in history when she clocked 10.62 seconds. Her compatriot Jackson is the world 200m champion and ran a world-leading 21.45secs to move to second on the alltime list.

The USA’s' Sydney McLaughlin, shortlisted for last year's award, is also in contention after breaking the

world 400m hurdles record with 51.41secs at the US Championships and further improving the world record to 50.68 to win the world title. Nigeria's Tobi Amusan, who is the world 100m hurdles champion, also made the cut along with Venezuelan triple jumper Yulimar Rojas, who was on the shortlist last year but has since improved her world record to 15.74m at the World Indoor Championships in Belgrade.

World shot put champion Chase Ealey, world 20km and 35km race walk champion Kimberly Garcia and world indoor high jump champion Yaroslava Mahuchikh are also on the list of nominees.

The Women's Athlete of the Year longlist are: Tobi Amusan (Nigeria), Sydney McLaughlin and Chase Ealey (USA), Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Shericka Jackson (Jamaica), Kimberly Garcia (Peru), Faith Kipyegon (Kenya), Yaroslava Mahuchikh (Ukraine), Yulimar Rojas (Venezuela) and Shaunae Miller-Uibo (Bahamas).

THREE MORE CLUBS JOIN

WOLVERHAMPTON’S SPORTING HALL OF FAME

Three more Wolverhampton clubs were inducted into the city’s Sporting Hall of Fame during a celebratory event in the city.

Albert Lawn Tennis Club, Old Wulfrunians Tettenhall Cricket Club and Old Wulfrunians Football Club have represented the city in tennis, cricket and football respectively, and all reached their centenaries this year.

Launched in 1999 by City of Wolverhampton Council and the Wolverhampton City Sports Advisory Council, the Sporting Hall of Fame recognises and celebrates the achievements of sportsmen, sportswomen and sporting clubs who have represented the city.

Councillor Steve Evans, Cabinet Member for City Environment and Climate Change, said: “It is only right that we celebrate the very

best in the city’s sporting achievements and dedication by inducting these three clubs into the illustrious Sporting Hall of Fame.

Wolverhampton has a fantastic reputation of being the home of a number of sporting clubs that have produced competitors of national and international standard.

“This is a fitting way to honour those who, in a voluntary role, have selflessly provided a long and meritorious service to sport and without whom, sport would not happen. I am delighted that Albert Lawn Tennis Club, Old Wulfrunians Tettenhall Cricket Club and Old Wulfrunians Football Club have joined the eminent list of sportsmen, sportswomen and sporting clubs whose achievements have been celebrated in this way."

Chair of Wolverhampton’s

Sports Advisory Council, Peter Holmes MBE, said: “Wolverhampton has a very great sporting history, and the foundations of this history are ‘the Clubs’. This is the foundation for any aspiring boy or girl to gain knowledge of their sport.

“We have in the city 22 sporting clubs who have achieved their centenary. This is something for the city to be very proud of, it must be doing something right to attract such dedication.”

Albert Lawn Tennis Club was formed in 1922, its original site was in Albert Road on ground owned by Clyno, the motorcycle and car makers. Fortunately, land became available in Aldersley Road; the club purchased the site and, on completion of the deal, eight courts were laid.

Old Wulfrunians Tettenhall Cricket Club was formed in 1922 by a group of sixth formers from Wolverhampton

Grammar School. By 1927, the club had grown, and membership increased, a second team was formed, and the official name of the club as being Wolverhampton Grammar School Old Boys was recorded.

Old Wulfrunians Football Club, also formed in 1922, achieved national notoriety when involved in a UK record penalty shootout in the first round of last year’s J.W Hunt Cup, which ‘Old Wulfs’ won 19-18. This historic event is commemorated by a plaque at the ground of AFC Wulfrunians where the match took place.

The ceremony took place on at WV Active Aldersley where the Sporting Hall of Fame books and wall plaques are displayed. Previous inductees include organisations like Bilston Lawn Tennis Club, Wolverhampton Cricket Club and Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club.

Netball Providing Meaning To Uganda Captain, Peace

FROM PLAYING barefoot, surviving being poisoned and growing up in a country that discouraged women's sports, netball has helped provide meaning to Proscovia Peace's life.

As the Uganda captain prepares to lead her side in a three-match series against England, she has been reflecting on her journey. Avoiding teenage pregnancy and marriage, which friends as young as 12 were forced into, were among the early challenges she faced.

"I witnessed it with my own eyes - at that stage I feared for my life - but what made me get through

was determination," she said. "Even now, teenage pregnancy in Uganda is at the peak. That shows me that most of them can't see any future ahead and they are forced into situations like this."

Peace, 32, grew up in the Arua District in northwest Uganda, where

playing netball provided her salvation. Peace established herself as one of the best goal shooters in the world and became the first African to play in the UK's Super League when she appeared for Loughborough Lightning in 2015.

FIFA World Cup breaking new grounds in more ways than one