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from Eastside August 2023

Simple beauty

THERE’S A BIG BIRTHDAY FOR JORDAN ODU TO CELEBRATE THIS MONTH.

August is a milestone month for me in 2023, as I’ve finally hit the big 4-0. I’m not going to lie, the thought of this birthday has been more than a touch daunting, however, I’ve embraced it now and am looking forward to what’s in store.

And if you can’t go big for your 40th, when can you? I’m starting as I mean to go on by cruising around in my dream car - the Land Rover Defender from Apache Automotive. Believe me when I say this machine is unreal and totally fulfilled my teenage MTV ‘Pimp My Ride’ dreams. Boasting luxurious captain-style seats, plush Italian Nappa leather hide, an 170PS Ecoboost diesel engine and each model is built to spec, big shout out to the team for letting me loose in this bad boy, what a great experience.

Apache Automotive launched their souped-up commercial vehicle brand a few weeks back with help from the Leeds Rhinos at Victoria Leeds and the reaction was incredible. I really didn’t want to give it back, and of course, it’s on the top of my birthday wish list.

A big shout-out to The Faversham and team PGHL for hosting my birthday bash. It really was the party to end all parties and the inevitable hangover was so worth it. The team was on top form, with all my nearest and dearest in attendance and Rozel Vodka was on hand to make sure the amazing cocktails never stopped flowing. The Faversham is something of an iconic venue in Leeds for a reason. It’s the perfect setting for any big celebration.

Speaking of parties, the 18th Leeds Pride event is on track to be the biggest and best to date. We hosted a pre-Pride party at The Ivy Victoria Quarter and it’s safe to say we went big. DJ Stephanie Hirst officially unveiled the transformation of Sidney Street into Rainbow Street, complete with an amazing Pride flag mural. She then brought all the party anthems alongside some amazing drag queens whilst guests enjoyed delicious food and cocktails from The Ivy. My favourite dishes had to be the Tuna Sashimi Taco, the Prawn Tempura, Vietnamese dressing, and I’ll be making my way through the new spritz cocktail menu this summer. Trust me, they’re next level tasty.

If you’ve got bored kids to entertain this summer, you need to treat them to the Leeds Bear Hunt in the city centre. Designed to raise money for Leeds Children’s Hospital and celebrate artists and creatives in the city, it’s fun to go on the trail to hunt no less than 35 colourful bears. The Victoria Leeds bear tops my list. The hunt will be in Leeds until 9 September, so check them out.

My latest food obsession has got to be Harvey Nichols’ bold new summer menu. It’s addictive and such great value for three courses and a drink just £30. Seek out the Poached Chicken Breast with tomato and nduja jam and the Charred Lamb Steak with Greek salad and you won’t be disappointed. I’ve been lucky enough to visit on days the sun has been shining, so I dined alfresco on their terrace. It’s the perfect spot to catch some rays over lunch.

Leeds is really knocking the live music events out of the park this summer. On top of the exciting gigs at Leeds Arena, Millennium Square is smashing it with their Sounds of the City gig series. With events ranging from Nile Rogers and Shed Seven to Hacienda Classical and Bastille, it really is an eclectic feast for music lovers.

That’s everything from me for August, I’ve got to dash for yet more birthday celebrations. I plan to milk this one until late August for sure. Have a great month and I’ll see you soon.

Mixed charm bracelet in sterling silver, £87.50. H L Brown, 18 St Sepulchre Gate, Doncaster, DN1 1TB. Tel: 01302 342589. www.hl-brown.co.uk co.uk

Empreinte lingerie adds a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Lace of Bakewell, Orme Court, Granby Road, Bakewell, DE45 1ES. Tel: 01629 814933. www.lacebakewell.co.uk

Cotton Traders lilac/pink women’s polo shirt, was £36 now £18 (limited time). This classic polo strikes the perfect balance of smart and casual. The relaxed fit and cotton-rich fabric with a touch of stretch will keep you comfy all day long. Classic polo features – including a button-down placket, straight hem and set-in sleeves – are elevated by thoughtful feminine touches, including the ¾ sleeves and available in lilac/pink with stunning floral overlay. Lakeside Village, White Rose Way, Doncaster DN4 5PH. lakeside-village.co.uk t-shirt in off white