January 2016 (issue 40)

Birmingham g n i liv

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January 2016

MIDLANDS MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR

PAUL THANDI ON THE NEC GROUP’S REVOLUTION

BUSINESS 2016 City’s bright future

NEW YEAR STYLE HOMES • FASHION • HEALTH

LADY LESHURR

FROM QUEEN’S SPEECH TO WORLD DOMINATION

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LISA WILLIAMS, NAILCOTE HALL, FEI LIU, THE STABLE... AND MORE

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EDITOR’S VIEW

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Paul Thandi says we’re entering a new golden age for Birmingham and the region – and I’m convinced he’s the perfect candidate to lead it

s we enter an exciting new year, an event at the tail end of the old one put down a significant marker for our city. The BBC Music Awards were held for the first time in Birmingham at the Genting Arena. Full of star-studded glitz and glamour, watched live by an audience of thousands and millions more on primetime TV, the awards came to Brum after beating off stiff competition from London.

The celebs and organisers loved it – so much so that it’s already been confirmed that the awards will return to the Arena in 2016. We really shouldn’t be surprised – latest figures show that Birmingham has taken the lead as the UK’s fastest growing tourist destination after record numbers came to the city last year. And according to Marketing Birmingham, more than a quarter of visitors were here to sample our thriving arts scene.

Add to that the attraction of our incredible food offerings (we’ve the most Michelin stars outside London), fantastic retail proposition (Grand Central is the most talked-about shopping destination in the country) and thriving business community and you understand why Paul Thandi describes this as a new golden age for Birmingham and the region.

The boss of the NEC Group, which includes the Genting and Barclaycard Arenas, is one of our most influential voices, running a business delivering more than £2billion to the regional economy, as well as 30,000 jobs. Having interviewed him this month, I’m convinced he’d be the perfect candidate to lead the new, devolved West Midlands Regional Authority as its mayor in 2017. What say you, Paul?

David Johns

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Editor: David Johns david@brumliving.co.uk

Features editor: Shelley Carter shelley@brumliving.co.uk Designer: Tracy Duffy

Contributors: Rob Price, Sue Cooke, Lisa Melvin, Rose Gallagher

Account manager: Jane Morris jane@brumliving.co.uk Photography: David Morphew, Andrew Llewellyn Publishing director: Jonathan Carter

Rock Hopper Media Limited Burleigh House, 23 Tagwell Road, Droitwich WR9 7BN tel 01905 771110 © Rock Hopper Media Ltd. Birmingham Living is published monthly by Rock Hopper Media Ltd and printed by Buxton Press. Views and opinions expressed by authors and services and products offered by advertisers are not specifically endorsed by Rock Hopper Media Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part of the contents of Birmingham Living without written permission is strictly prohibited.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: The subscription rate (post paid) is £24 for one year (12 issues).

Subscriptions 01905 771110 ISSN 2051-8560

Cover image: Lady Leshurr

by Tabz Wilson

visit www.brumliving.co.uk @brum_living

january 2016

/bhamliving

When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

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g n i liv

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INSIDE

Highlights

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Lady Leshurr The multi-award-winning Brummie rapper charts her stratospheric rise to fame

Paul Thandi ‘Mr Entertainment’ talks business, the city’s new golden age and chilling out Food and Drink Head chef Drew Saktayakorn relives his journey from Thailand to Brum Style Slip into something more stylish as you get fit for the New Year Homes Design expert Lisa Melvin’s edit on what’s hot in bathrooms for 2016 Company To Watch Jewellery genius Fei Liu on why he came to Birmingham from China

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CONTENTS

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Best of the Rest

22 40 56 58 65 70 16 78 january 2016

Restaurant Reviews Critics’ verdict on The Oak Room, Nailcote Hall and The Stable New Year, New You Expert advice to help you lose those festive pounds…

Motoring The weather outside is frightening, but not in the new DS4 Crossback Young, Gifted and Brummie Midlands Young Designer of the Year, Georgia Richardson Spotlight on Business The latest news and views from Birmingham’s business community Social Scene The pages that picture who’s been out and about networking in Birmingham this month Shows, Arts, Gigs and More What’s on, where and when – all you need to know about the festive entertainment scene

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NEWS

NO JOKING! TEMPER UNVEILS HIS SUPERHEROES

g n i v liTODAY

Famous superheroes feature in a new series of stunning images by local graffiti artist Temper. They are part of his Popcorn exhibition at Castle Fine Art in The Mailbox and include The Joker, Captain America, The Hulk, Iron Man and Spiderman. The pictures are created by reapplying a single stencil of the superhero’s iconic signature up to 10,000 times.

Bringing you the brightest and most colourful stories from across the city each month

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

NUTCRACKER! Birmingham Royal Ballet chief executive Jan Teo gets help from a little friend to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the company’s production of The Nutcracker at the Hippodrome. The production is still regarded as one of the world’s best, and a number of those involved in the premiere 25 years ago returned to share their memories.

THE STABLE RIDES INTO TOWN A new restaurant, set up by a couple who quit the music industry to move to the country, has opened in Birmingham. The Stable is the newest in a chain of 12 eateries developed by Richard and Nikki Cooper who made their lifestyle change in 2007. The restaurant, near Grand Central, serves award-winning pizzas and pies and a selection of fine ciders.

BAGGIES’ BIGGEST FAN JOINS 100 CLUB Lifelong Baggies fan Mary Evans will be the toast of The Hawthorns with her 100th birthday on New Year’s Day. Mary, who regularly watched the team with her late husband Frank, has experienced the highs and lows of following West Brom over the years – including winning the FA Cup in 1968.

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NEWS

BIRMINGHAM ROCKS! The Genting Arena rocked to some of the biggest names in the international music scene when the BBC Music Awards came to Birmingham for the first time.

Brum beat off competition from London to stage the extravaganza – and such was the huge support and success of the evening, it was announced that the Arena is to host the 2016 awards too.

SLICE OF HAM AND PASSION

The DeNada Dance Theatre, headed by artistic director and choreographer Carlos Pons Guerra, will present its dance triple bill Ham and Passion at mac Birmingham on 25 February. Recently nominated for a Critics’ Circle National Dance Award as Best Emerging Artist, the UK-based choreographer promises an evening of seductive and It’s exciting times at Birmingham Contemporary Music provocative contemporary dance.

GRAMMY JOY FOR MUSIC GROUP

after they were nominated for a Grammy Award for their recording of Gerald Barry’s The Importance of Being Earnest. Other 2016 nominees including former City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra musical director Andris Nelsons, rock legend Bob Dylan, Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift.

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BMAG HITS 70 MILLION MARK

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery has celebrated its 130th anniversary by revealing that over 70 million visitors have passed through its doors – more than the population of the UK! The gallery is currently hosting the largest-ever exhibition of work by British master Edward Robert Hughes, with many of the works not seen in public for more than 100 years.

NEW YEAR DAY

LANDMARKS

1. The world awoke to news on 1 January 1967 that daredevil Evel Knievel had nearly died trying to jump the 141ft fountain at Caesars Palace on a motorbike.

Knievel remained in hospital for weeks after.

2. He gave his name to a famous telescope in 1990, but on 1 January 1925 Edwin Hubble announced his discovery of galaxies beyond the Milky Way. 3. The first British mobile phone call was made on 1 January 1985 – by none other than comedian Ernie Wise!

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ROYAL SEAL FOR £14M CENTRE Princess Anne attended a celebration marking the 60th anniversary of national deafblind charity Sense at Birmingham’s Opus restaurant. Guests included Lord Digby Jones of Birmingham, Dame Christine Braddock and Fiona Allan, chief executive of Birmingham Hippodrome. A new £14million TouchBase community centre in Selly Oak was also announced.

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NEWS

GROUND CONTROL TO MAJOR TIM… Hundreds of Midlanders headed to Millennium Point as Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum joined a national network of centres to celebrate the launch of Tim Peake, the first British astronaut to visit the International Space Station. The event saw Thinktank become the Midlands version of Ground Control with a live screening of the rocket launch.

ROWING CLUB LAUNCHES APPEAL IN BRIEF Former leader of Birmingham City Council Sir Albert Bore launched a new community project at Birmingham Rowing Club. The club is based at Edgbaston Reservoir in Sir Albert’s Ladywood ward and is encouraging the local community to try recreational rowing, regardless of age and size. Sir Albert also named the first of two new boats.

OUR NIGE SWINGS IN Former Formula 1 world champion, Brummie Nigel Mansell took to driving of a different kind when he opened the new Pro Shop Swing Room at Redditch Golf Club. The new facility features technology to allow lessons and practice sessions indoors as well as playing some of the world’s finest courses.

NEW NAME The Heritage Motor Centre, home to the largest collection of historic British cars, has a new name – the British Motor Museum. It’s part of a revamp at the Gaydon venue, including a new £4million Collections Centre.

ARENA HIT More than 625,000 people visited the Barclaycard Arena in its first year since its £26million makeover.

Stars who have praised and performed at the venue include Michael Bublé, One Direction, Lionel Ritchie and Sir Paul McCartney.

DANCE STARS PITCHING IN IN THE FRAME

Jewellery Quarter photographer Marta Kochanek has created a special exhibition celebrating some of Birmingham’s greatest dancers. Dressed Up is a series of portraits featuring Birmingham Royal Ballet’s leading stars, including Momoko Hirata, pictured.

Marta featured in Birmingham Living last year.

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Birmingham City FC is to support LoveBrum, the charity that funds hidden gem projects that make the city a better place to live and work. The partnership was announced at a special club event at St Andrew’s.

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NEWS

TOP TWEETS FOR BRUM Our pick of what’s been said about Brum this month

CITY IN FOCUS A new event is being launched to zoom in on

Birmingham and photography. Capture Birmingham, supported by Visit Birmingham, will see local photography and arts organisations invite Brummies to

Joan Armatrading @ArmatradingJoan Do something to make yourself feel good today. List what you are good at.

a series of exhibitions, photo walks and workshops. The

Katy @Katyontheradio NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Look how smug you look, stealing my chocolates! @enpee64

from 19 to 22 March.

event coincides with the Photography Show at the NEC

STAR National @STARnational Congratulations Birmingham on becoming a City of Sanctuary today. We love you #Birmingham!

Barclaycard Arena @BcardArena OMG THIS IS HAPPENING! @justinbieber brings his #PurposeWorldTour to Brum Oct 2016! Presale next week! #BieberBrum Catherine Ogle @CatherineOgle Tram up and running in Brum (just behind our offices @bhamcathedral) Old concept but feels, now, modern.

PENNING A NEW FUTURE A company which has been making exclusive pens and pencils in the Jewellery Quarter for more than 150 years is writing a new chapter. Yard-O-Led is enjoying a renaissance thanks to new investment by Robin Field, an entrepreneur who previously worked for Filofax. He is modernising the business and recruiting the next generation of propelling pencil and pen artisans.

HERE COMES THE BIG READ… We’ve had The Big Hoot, The Little Hoot… so please welcome The Big Read!

The literacy-themed arts project takes place in Birmingham this summer, presented by Wild in Art with King Edward VI schools, the National Literacy Trust and Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

Schools and community groups will decorate BookBench sculptures to be installed in the region’s museums, libraries and cultural hubs.

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AIR AMBULANCE LANDS DOUBLE Midlands Air Ambulance Charity received two accolades at the Air Ambulance Awards of Excellence. They included the Outstanding Young Person Award won by 13-year-old Ben Lovegrove from Worcestershire.

Ben who was badly hurt in a horse riding accident in 2013 has been campaigning on TV and radio for the charity.

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NEWS

BOTTLED! A MOTORING LEGEND Midlands sports car company Morgan and Birmingham-based British fragrance house Gruhme have joined forces to produce an exciting new premium scent for men. Morgan was established in 1909 while Gruhme was formed in 2013

by Robert Hallmark. However, founders of both companies were born exactly 100 years apart and lived in Malvern, where Morgan is based.

ARE YOU GAME, ASKS JAMIE? Reality TV star Jamie Laing has launched an appeal for Brummies to sign up for the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Games. With hundreds of events across the region the Made In Chelsea celeb says it’s the ideal incentive to get fit by teaming up with friends to walk, run, swim or cycle for the charity. The games are on 18 to 20 March. Details at sportrelief.com.

Picture: Ian Yates

DARCEY BACKS SPORTS SHOW Entertainment and sporting heroes are giving their support to the inaugural Sports Show at the NEC. Founded by rugby legends Will Greenwood and Austin Healey, the show on 25 and 26 June is being supported by 13 national sports governing bodies as well as celebrities including Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell and Olympic medallists Beth Tweddle and Anthony Ogogo.

More at www.sports-show.co.uk

DJ NOREEN’S GRAND MAKEOVER Award-winning Asian Network DJ Noreen Khan opened the new Body Shop at New Street Station. The weekday radio host, whose programme was named Best Radio Show at this year’s Asian Media Awards, was given a makeover in the new store before cutting the green ribbon.

GOT ANY NEWS? Email your news and pictures to editor@brumliving.co.uk january 2016

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COVER STORY

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Nominated for three awards – best music video, best female act and best hip hop act – she won the lot

RAP ROYALTY Queen’s Speech rapper and producer Lady Leshurr, tells Shelley Carter that despite her stratospheric rise to fame, there’s no place like Brum

Photography by Tabz Wilson

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COVER STORY

oogle Queen’s Speech and it isn’t Elizabeth II that pops, but Brum rap royalty Lady Leshurr. In less than 18 months the Brummie MC has gone from relative obscurity to scooping three urban music awards, a MOBO nomination and 15 million views of witty four-part work, Queen’s Speech on YouTube. A regular on Radio 1 and BBC 1Xtra she’s gaining mainstream popularity at a rapid rate. It might all seem like a bit of a whirlwind but Lady Leshurr wrote her first lyric aged just six, so it‘s been more of a slow burner than an overnight hit.

It all began in Solihull – not exactly the rap and grime capital, but bear with us. Born Melesha O’Garro, Lady Leshurr has fond memories of growing up in the Midlands. She enthused: “I actually grew up in Kingshurst which is a quiet suburb of Birmingham. I love it! It’s my safe haven and I try to get back there as often as possible. It’s my home.”

It wasn’t a particularly musical background aside from her family being avid listeners, but Lady Leshurr got into it at a very young age and made her first mix tape aged 14. She recalled: “I remember listening to Sister Nancy’s Bam Bam playing at home and that was when I wrote my first lyrics aged six, but it wasn’t until I heard Eminem’s Hi My Name Is that I knew I wanted to be a rapper.”

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NO PUSH OVER The rap scene remains a male dominated genre and it’s well documented that Lady Leshurr has been critical of the fact that she is referred to as a female rapper which is still a source of irritation.

She says: “It’s like saying I’m good for a girl.” She’s no push over and has made strong decisions along the road to success, famously turning down a deal with Atlantic Records because “I believe you have to be in the right head space to make such a huge decision and I guess that time in my life a deal was not right for me.” She’s firmly in control of her work and her image.

Playing the lead in Penny Woolcock’s controversial film 1 Day in 2009 which depicted gang life on the streets of Handsworth provided a minor break and a bit of recognition. Criticised by the city’s police for glamorising violence and banned in some Birmingham cinemas, it gained a cult following and meant that when Lady Leshurr travelled to London to freestyle people recognised her. The Brummie lilt which is refreshingly evident in her work set her apart too which is still pretty unique in the UK rap scene. The versatile star also featured in Fifty in 2010 and starred in Lapse of Honour in 2015 with more acting set to follow.

Photography by Idil Sukan/Draw HQ @idilsukan on Twitter/Instagram and on Facebook

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COVER STORY

In 2013 Lady Leshurr’s career took off. She released Blazin’ which rocketed to number one on the MTV Base Chart. In the same year she was involved in the BBC Urban Classic Prom and was nominated for two Urban Music Awards – best female act and best hip hop act. She lost out to Krept and Konan and fellow Brummie Laura Mvula, but in 2015 she had her moment. Nominated for three awards – best music video, best female act and best hip hop act – she won the lot. She recalled: “I still can’t believe it. The whole year was amazing! Full of blessings. I really didn’t think I’d win all three. It’s a moment I will never forget.”

She’s having more than her fair share of moments she’ll never forget. In December Lady Leshurr travelled Stateside to support one of her all time heroes Lil Wayne in Seattle. She said: “Lil Wayne is my bae! Everything he does inspires me. I watch his videos on YouTube all the time. The way he expresses himself and his presence on stage is incredible.” Along with Missy Elliot, Tory Lanez and Eminem he’s top of her wish list of artists to collaborate with. She met another of her heroes recently, Timbaland who didn’t disappoint. Lady Leshurr explained: “I grew up listening to his music and I’m a big fan of his work. To meet him and for him to be so accommodating and humble was such an amazing thing.”

Lady Leshurr’s most recognisable work, four-part freestyle Queen’s Speech made it onto radio playlists in 2015 which has propelled her into the mainstream. Even if you’re not into grime and rap, it’s hard to avoid the witty, lyrical tracks that induce

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giggles and wonder in equal measure. Drawing on comments from her critics on Twitter, the freestyles are often peppered with comical responses to the haters, such as the infectious brush your teeth in Queen’s Speech part 4.

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Even if you’re not into grime and rap, it’s hard to avoid the witty, lyrical tracks that induce giggles and wonder in equal measure Alongside Felicity Jones, Mike Skinner and Benjamin Zephaniah, Lady Leshurr was one of the faces of the giant mural in the Custard Factory inspired by Zephaniah’s quote, ‘Birmingham has changed a lot, but for me it’s still the centre of the universe’. It strikes a chord with Lady Leshurr who said: “I agree with it 100 per cent. I will never forget my Birmingham roots.”

Speaking of Birmingham I wonder how the music scene is looking to the 27-year-old? “The music scene is really stepping up. I believe we have some greats there. We just need to believe in ourselves more and realise not all music comes from London.”

Topping the phenomenal year she had in 2015 will be a tall order, but Lady Leshurr is expecting great things from 2016 too. “I’ve worked at my craft for a long time and I am ready for seeds I’ve planted to flourish. I want to be the best I can be to explore and stretch myself musically working with different producers who know how to bring out the best in me.” I

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INTERVIEW

FLYING THE FLAG Birmingham’s ‘Mr Entertainment’ Paul Thandi talks to David Johns about big business, the city’s new golden age – and just chilling out…

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INTERVIEW

aking up the wall behind Paul Thandi is a huge piece of artwork. Made up of hundreds of multi-coloured lines, it’s a typographical tribute to history and culture.

They’re all here… great heroes and villains, momentous people, places and events that changed and impacted our world, from One Small Step For Man to Tiananmen Square. From Mother Teresa to Nelson Mandela. From Elvis Presley to Sesame Street.

All pieced together in an elaborate jigsaw to form the Union Flag with the aim to excite and inspire.

Looking at it dominate the office of the boss of the NEC Group it’s almost impossible to think that he once kept it in his kitchen! Breakfast with Bjorn Borg, lunch with Ludwig Van Beethoven and dinner with Marlene Dietrich indeed! Thankfully, for the sake of space and the sanity of family life at his Warwickshire home the masterpiece produced by an artist friend several years ago now resides in his office at NEC HQ. “Not so long ago he contacted me and tried to buy it back,” said Paul. “It was obvious from the size of his offer that he wanted it badly – and it was also obvious that if I ever decided to sell it I could get a helluva lot more for it.”

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RAZOR SHARP Ah, there’s the businessman for you, always thinking of the best deal. But in Paul’s case there’s more to the man than just a razor sharp commercial, corporate mind. He’s also pretty super cool with it. His choice in office art is just one clue to the personality he brings to the job. Sprinkled on the coffee table are copies of the Harvard Business magazine mixed up with issues of Wired. And it only takes a few seconds with the man, complete in trademark figure-hugging black roll-neck, to appreciate that he looks after himself. “I run a lot,” he says. “On Saturday mornings. I take my boy to football – it’s the one thing I won’t let my business life interfere with. We all talk about work-life balance, but who among us gets it right, or anywhere near right?

My family has to put up with a lot of not seeing me as much as I’d like them to. So, while he plays football, I go running – without my mobile. So I’m away from it all for a few hours!"

There’s something ironic about the fact that the head of a group of businesses that brings enjoyment to millions every year finds it so difficult to carve out time to relax and have some fun himself. But that’s the way it is for the Midlands’ very own ‘Mr Entertainment’.

As chief executive of the UK’s largest and most high-profile venue management company, he’s responsible for 10 businesses in the NEC Group which deliver £2.1billion of economic investment to the West Midlands, supporting nearly 30,000 jobs.

It’s a huge, growing business which is very different to the animal which Paul took over back in 2006. Not only has the group

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INTERVIEW

branched successfully into ticket sales (more than two million a year through The Ticket Factory), it has also gone into event catering with Amadeus, event hospitality with Amplify and most recently global show promotion and production with MemoryHaus.

The CEO also led the NEC out of council control to private ownership earlier this year with the private equity company LDC, part of the Lloyds banking group. Also this year, the wraps came off the stunning Barclaycard Arena in the city centre and the Genting Arena on the NEC site. At the end of last year, Resorts World with its casino, shops, restaurants, cinema, hotel and conference centre was opened in partnership with Genting.

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Breakfast with Bjorn Borg, lunch with Ludwig Van Beethoven and dinner with Marlene Dietrich indeed!

“The key thing when I first arrived here was to turn the business into a data-led organisation. Prior to that we had no idea who we were selling to or talking to. That has completely changed so we are able to offer a complete experience to our customers. We also worked tirelessly to create a positive culture across the NEC Group, from the car park attendant to the finance director.”

THINKING BIG Paul believes that positive culture needs to be scaled up so it becomes more evident and is adopted more widely across the region’s commercial, political and cultural communities. As a board member of Marketing Birmingham, he argues passionately that Brummies as a group must think bigger about the huge opportunities which are opening up for the city.

“As a business the NEC Group contributes hugely to the wealth of the Midlands and together with the fantastic technology centres, the city’s excellence in health with the likes of the QE, our wonderful universities and colleges, the expansion of our airport and the arrival of HS2, the region has the best chance it has ever had to become a true global player. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and we are now pushing at an open door to really achieve. Birmingham is a great place to be right now.” I

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FOOD & DRINK

DREW SAKTAYAKORN The head chef at Chaophraya on his fragrant Thai style, why his mum is his idol and how he ended up in Brum quite by chance Tell us about your cooking My style is fragrant and unfussy with a focus on the best and freshest ingredients I can get. I like to balance the tastes so that the finished dish has flavours that are blended perfectly.

How did you become a chef?

I’ve always loved cooking. My mum is my idol and is a fantastic cook, so I learned from her as a child. I studied agriculture at university in Thailand followed by two years training to be a chef at a government run school that provided a specialist course. I then worked in a hotel for six months before getting a job in South Africa, but the ambition was always to work in the UK. After a couple of years in SA I returned to Thailand to train for a further certificate that would enable me to do that.

I wrote to 15 restaurants in the UK and only one was interested! As it turned out I was very lucky as it was the Michelin-starred Nahm in London. At this level there is such a lot of detail. I listened to everything and learned lots. I stayed there for three years before moving to another of their restaurants Bussaba where I stayed for a further two.

A friend of mine wanted to work in Leeds for Chaophraya and because he didn’t speak very good English I went with him to meet the owner Kun Kim and we both ended up working for them here in Birmingham, so really I was just helping a friend.

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CHEF’S CORNER

What do you eat when at home?

At home I eat my food. I’m from the mountainous region of Northern Thailand and I love the traditional food from that area, such as chill pop pop. I make a fragrant paste with lots of spices, garlic and onion pounded in a pestle and mortar served with grilled fish and sticky rice.

Who’s the best chef in the world and why? And who’s the best in Brum?

My mum is the best chef in the world! She’s my idol. Growing up she cooked beautiful, fresh food for us every day and she inspires me.

Is the customer always right?

Yes, the customer is always right!

What was your favourite food as a kid?

Sea bass, because it was simple and tasted incredible. I loved the natural flavours back then as much as I do now and all it needed was salt and lemongrass to really bring it alive.

Food heaven and food hell?

Heaven is fragrant grilled fish with lots of

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vegetables. Hell would be junk food. It’s unnatural and full of fat. We have many choices and this is such an unnatural one. In Thailand we don’t have much junk food. Lots of vegetables, herbs, fish and rice.

Share a cooking tip Try to keep all of the tastes balanced as that’s the most important thing especially in Thai cooking.

Bring all the flavours out from nature and nurture the tastes that are true in every ingredient.

If you weren’t a chef, what would you be?

A farmer with rice fields, vegetables and fruit.

When I retire I’d like to go back to Thailand, so maybe then.

What do you recommend from this evening’s menu?

The green curry is very popular and the massaman with lamb is particularly good with palm sugar, tamarind, herbs and chilli. I Chaophraya, Spiceal St, Bullring, Birmingham B5 4BH. Tel: 0121 643 2424 http://chaophraya.co.uk/venues/chaophraya-birmingham/

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

THE OAK ROOM Nailcote Hall, Nailcote Lane, Berkswell, Warks CV7 7DE. Tel: 02476 466174 www.nailcotehall.co.uk don’t know about you, but from November to March we can mostly be found hunkering down on a squishy sofa toasting our toes on an open fire and occasionally hammering out Oh The Weather Outside on the piano. It’s blissful. I appreciate the neighbours might disagree. It takes something a bit special to lure us out from our den and slap bang in the middle of the festive season Nailcote Hall managed it.

The historic hall had undergone a bit of a revamp with nine extra bedrooms including a very desirable suite and a new clubhouse. An established wedding venue averaging more than one a week plus a popular golf and party destination, we wondered if dinner would be up to scratch?

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LIGHTS FANTASTIC Arriving in the dark the entrance looked stunning with fairy lights adorning a horticultural archway.

Good start. The reception area was packed full of rural charm with exposed beams, traditional décor and a relaxed vibe with the gorgeous hotel cat perched on the desk – its favourite spot apparently.

At an impressive 22 years this feline has the best life

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of any cat anywhere on the planet from what we can gather. I digress, but this is what happened. Everyone was so friendly we felt involved almost instantly.

The Oak Room restaurant was seriously cosy. A roaring log fire, low ceilings and a checked carpet made it feel homely and relaxed. Sat right by the fire we were tempted to toast our toes, but managed to keep them under wraps. It was an idyllic spot though.

The menu had thankfully not been given too much of a Christmas twist, but head chef Daniel Topa had pulled together the best dishes from the usual menu and combined them into a smaller book. We put in an order for a bottle of Gavi while we weighed up the options. On the subject of wine, it’s a great list with a focus on English varieties as part of the hotel’s English Wine Project featuring, yes you guessed it, English wine including Welcome Hills from Warwickshire. A nice touch.

Warm bread arrived smelling incredible. The sage and onion and sun-dried tomato versions were delicious. An amuse bouche, in the form of an espresso cup of mulled wine was slightly odd. It tasted perfectly fine, but I didn’t really want it with a glass of Gavi and warm bread. The other half loved it though.

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

Chicken liver parfait with soft brioche and sticky chutney had us cooing while the scallops with crispy Parma ham, caviar and pea puree was very good. The salty ham and sweet pea combination was a joy. We felt so at home now that I almost popped out of my seat and plonked another log on the fire, but lovely waiter Glynn beat me to it.

Onto the steak and chips. When chips arrive in neat Jenga constructions my heart sinks. They’re often disappointingly more style than substance.

Not these bad boys. They were bloomin’ lovely and the steak was cooked perfectly too served with a rich sauce, mushrooms and tomatoes.

APPLE TRIO I opted for a chicken breast with a festive feel accompanied by pigs in blankets and stuffing. It was moist and packed with flavour. The selection of vegetables served at the table was all a bit silver service and a little old-fashioned, but they tasted great.

Dessert came in the form of a trio of apple which consisted of apple crumble, apple ice cream and an apple sponge. It was super sweet and moreish with a nice toffee flavour too.

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We left having had a lovely evening. Every member of staff we met was superb and I don’t mean slick, but welcoming, helpful and positive. They described the Nailcote team as ‘a big family’ and it felt genuine too, not just lip service. The place is nostalgic and warm and gives you that fuzzy feeling you get when you’re completely relaxed and happy. I

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Birmingham has a lively and buzzing bar and restaurant scene. Here, we present our insider guide to what’s going on in your city’s eateries and drinking dens SAMANTHA’S IN A CLASS OF HER OWN Is Samantha Bates a teacher’s pet? Sure looks like it, after the manager of the NEC’s contract catering division won a prestigious award from the school meals industry. Samantha, who runs external events for Amadeus Food, won the best catering award at this year’s FSM Awards in London. She said: “It was a complete shock to win when you are up against the best in the business.”

CHECKING OUT THE NEW CHEQUERS Big changes are afoot at the Old Chequers Inn, Crowle. Award winning gastro-pub business, CD Pub Co, has acquired a 20-year lease on the premises and the 120-seater restaurant will reopen in the spring after a £500,000 refurb with a new name – The Chequers at Crowle. CD Pub Co also runs The Forest at Feckenham, The Stag at Offchurch and The Moorings at Myton.

SPICE KINGS TOAST OF ‘CURRY OSCARS’ The team at Pushkar is celebrating after being named Best Midlands Restaurant at the British Curry Awards. Dubbed the ‘Curry Oscars’, the awards in London were attended by the greats of the industry and famous faces including Great British Bake Off runner-up Tamal Ray and Citizen Khan star Adil Ray. Pushkar’s younger sibling restaurant Praza was also a finalist in the Best Newcomer category.

MIDDLE EASTERN DELIGHTS ON MENU How does an ‘Arabian night adventure’ within a stone’s throw of New Street station sound? If you fancy the idea, drop in on the relaunched Soho Rooms on Bath Row – now called the Soho Rooms Mezze & Cocktail Lounge. Middle Eastern dining combines with late lounge entertainment, including belly dancers and shisha pipes in an outdoor heated lounge. Bring it on!

BURGER BOYS BECOME PATTY MEN Local burger boys Scott O’Byrne and Tom Maher have teamed up with Siren Craft Brew to launch the Original Patty Men restaurant in a converted railway arch on Shaws Passage, Digbeth. The pair have made a name for themselves at Brum’s street food hotspots, including Digbeth Dining Club. They will serve their famous ‘filthy burgers’ made with 35-day aged longhorn beef from the 33-seated venue.

BREWHOUSE PULLS IN BEER LOVERS Calling all ale connoisseurs… make a note to visit Sutton Coldfield’s first brewpub, the Brewhouse and Kitchen pub. Taking the place of the old Cambaz restaurant, the pub brews its own beer onsite. Manager Kevin Bolton told us: “We also have a wide selection of craft beers from the region and beyond, plus wines, spirits, ciders and soft drinks.”

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Independent Spanish Restaurant In Edgbaston Open 7 days a week serving Tapas, Paellas and A La Carte dishes Many wines available by the glass in friendly and authentic environment

Special lunchtime offer of 2 tapas for just £6.95

Harborne Court, Harborne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3BU www.elborracho.co.uk I hola@elborracho.co.uk I 0121 454 5368 El Borracho de Oro I

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@ElBorrachoDeOro

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va boo t o ve a len k yo in voi tine ur di d an di s d rom fo sap inn an od p er ti - l oin ea c ov tm rly e ea ent st ze as t

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cocktails and mocktails between 5pm-7pm daily

With 250 covers we also cater for private parties and corporate functions Unit 10 Fiveways Leisure 197 Broad Street Birmingham B15 1AY (Near the Cinema)

Tel: 0121 643 4808 Email: info@eastzeast.com web: http://eastzeast.com/venues/birmingham-broad-street/

MANCHESTER

LIVERPOOL

PRESTON

BIRMINGHAM

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LUNCH SPOT

THE STABLE Unit 1 Orion, 115 John Bright St, Birmingham B1 1BE. Tel: 0121 643 8918 www.stablepizza.com n end-of-term trip to the German market culminated in a desire to be indoors, sit on a chair not an upturned bin and drink something other than gluhwein. With our wallets draining cash like never before, we objected to £5 for a ropey slice of pizza and sloped off to the warmth of the freshly opened Stable for the real deal we hoped.

All new and shiny, the Stable was looking mighty fine with lots of natural wood, exposed plasterwork and retro neon signs. The menu was full of inventive pizza labelled with cute, locally-inspired names such as the Perry Barr-Baa and the Smethwick Scorcher. Pies are a speciality with five mouth- watering options. Tastysounding salads and wraps feature too, but we were after warmth and lots of it. Cue two garlic breads between the five of us, a half carafe of sauvignon blanc and the cider tasting board to kick-off.

Firstly, the garlic bread was the best we’ve had in a long while. A proper crowd pleaser it was thin, crisp and salty with a massive punch of garlic. The cheese version was good, but we all agreed we preferred it without. Secondly, the option to have a half carafe of wine was brilliant. A bottle would have been too much, a glass not enough. A common dilemma solved right there. Thirdly, cider is one of the Stables

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specialities, so it seemed rude not to. Five 1/3 pint samplers arrived looking fetching. The top spot went to the Thundering Molly – sweet, light, not fizzy or too cold.

Back to the food, I plumped for a pie as did grandma. The Wild Rooster with chicken, gammon, leek and a thyme crust was served with a huge salad, chutney and a pickled onion balanced on a rustic board. Admittedly it was tasty, but make no mistake about it, the pizza was the star of the show. The bases were the same thin crisp discs as the garlic bread, so they were wonderful for a start. The Longhorn Jim was a triumph and not for the faint hearted. It was laced with ground beef, chorizo, smoked ham, mushrooms and roasted red onions and was top drawer. The kid’s margarita pizzas were perfectly formed in size and taste served with crunchy veg for a token bit of goodness.

All in all we had a lot of fun and it was just what the doctor ordered – well, probably not actually, but you take our point. A word to the wise - while the pies are good, expect a sinking food envy if you order anything other than the mind-blowing pizza. I

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FOOD & DRINK

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FOOD & DRINK

TASTING A NEW YEAR Wines with a lighter, fresher style are the order of the day for January.

Expert Rob Price picks the best

o it’s all done for another year. The Christmas tree put away, or in the bin. The hordes of empty wine bottles still in the garage waiting for that trip down to the bottle bank – did we really drink that much?! I know some folks go in for a ‘dry’ January, but that’s a step too far.

But maybe you want to taste some wines that are a little lighter in style? If so this is for you…

The region from where the wine is made will give you the first clue. Cooler climate regions will more likely produce wines that are lighter with lower alcohol – so that’s northern Europe and a few small pockets of premium wine territory in the New World. In terms of style it will be mainly dry whites, sparkling wines and rose, with maybe some lighter bodied reds also available.

So if you’re celebrating in January and in need of fizz, two Northern Italian sparklers fit the bill. Asti and Prosecco. Asti will be sweet, low in alcohol and very refreshing. Prosecco, normally dry (ish), and equally refreshing. Great for any party. I’m a big fan of a Moscato d’Asti called Perrone which is a wonderful offering from Italy.

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CREAMINESS New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc has taken over the world, well at least the part of the world that makes Sauvignon Blanc. It is aromatic and zesty with very crisp acidity. Never that complicated but it does what it says on the tin (or in this case, bottle) and refreshes the parts other parts cannot reach.

I think I’m mixing up my different alcohols again! One of my favourite New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs is Ata Rangi which is slightly unusual in that a small proportion is barrel fermented, adding a hint of creaminess and texture.

A wine you must must try is German Riesling – I know, you were all put off by Liebfraumilch and Hock. Blue Nun and Black Tower just ruined it for you. But German wine is great and they are mainly examples of inexpensive dry/off dry

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ROB’S FOUR TO TRY AWESOME ASTI

The 2014 vintage of the wonderfully fragrant Moscato d’Asti Perrone is effervescent, aromatic fruity and sweet – and at only 5% alcohol it’s as good as being on the wagon. From The Wine Society at £7.95.

STUNNING SAUVIGNON New Zealand Ata Rangi is from Martinborough, a bit further north than the better known Marlborough. Expressive lemon, lime and passion fruit with a flinty aspect like Pouilly Fume. Slurp sells the 2014 for £14.49.

REMARKABLE RIESLING Now for the best value wine in the world… Ruppersberger Hoheburg. A Riesling Kabinett from Pfalz in Germany, it’s lovely and beautifully balanced. At only £6.50 from The Wine Society for the 2014 vintage it’s a bargain!

RADIANT ROSE My final ‘light’ pick is a wonderful rose from Provence in France. Dry, floral but with candied notes, it’s very fresh and appealing. Majestic sells for £14.99 a bottle (include it in a choice of six wines and you’ll get a substantial discount).

wines that as well as just quaffing down go really well with food. Off-dry German wine with spicy food is truly a ‘wow’.

Rose wines are, in some quarters, equally maligned but again can be fantastic. I prefer dry rose which is in effect just another name for a light-bodied red. With white wines we don’t use the skins of grapes, with reds we do to extract colour – we need black/red grapes of course. For rose wines we use the skins but for a very short period of time, so some colour but not much. I Birmingham Wine School is an independent wine and beer education company offering informal wine tasting events and Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) courses in Birmingham and Milton Keynes city centres. More information from Rob Price 0121 270 7359 www.birminghamwineschool.com

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JOG ON Tops £29 and £35, leggings £35, Label Lab at House of Fraser

NO SWEAT!

Give yourself a shot at keeping up that New Year resolution by slipping into something more stylish as you get fit

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STYLE

COOL RUNNING Coral sports running shorts £9.99, New Look, The Fort Shopping Park

STAR BRA Active Longline reversible sports bra £12, www.avonshop.co.uk

WRAP UP AND BREATHE

Grey and black outdoor jacket £29.99, H&M at Pavilions Birmingham

Yoga wear, Landsend

MAXIMUM IMPACT New Balance Vazee Rush £85, www.newbalance.co.uk

TRAIN SMART Garmin vivoactive GPS smartwatch £199.99, John Lewis

wo-thirds of Brits will join the gym in January – and

by February a third of those will have made the sheepish call to cancel their membership. Shocking.

LAST WORD The number one New Year resolution across the globe is to lose Marcia printed weight and get fit and we’ve worked out we’re more likely to leggings £26, South Beach stick to our fitness goals if we look the part.

Admittedly it was a miniscule survey of five people in the office with varying degrees of sporting prowess, but still, we think it makes sense. So, from the genius fitness tracker – the next generation of which is likely to be a tattoo that tracks your training – to sports bras and cool combat prints, here’s our pick of sports gear that’ll give your workout wardrobe a boost. I

T

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STYLE

SNAKE HIPS Leggings and crop top, HPE Clothing http://hpe-shop.com

TO THE FORE Footjoy dna golf shoe £129.99, www.golfbidder.co.uk

EVERYTHING'S ROSIE Rosie Sports Bra £29.50, M&S, Pavilions Birmingham

BEACH BALL

STYLE TIP

Venice beach sports bra and three pairs of sporty shorts £34.99, Lascana

GET IN SHAPE

Protect yo ur b Invest in th reasts. sports bra e best you can afford.

Only Play Maxime AOP training tights £34.99, Get the Label

SERIOUS KIT Vango Sprint 3 hydration pack £25, www.vango.co.uk

SHOES MADE FOR WALKING Skechers go walk £59, Brantano, The Fort Shopping Park

FITS LIKE A GLOVE Grey and black gym gloves £12.99, H&M at Pavilions Birmingham

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STYLE

COLOUR BLOCK Pastel colour block leggings, Active in Style

HIGH PERFORMANCE Sports bra £40, Landsend

ZIP IT Activewear charcoal jacket £24.99, New Look, The Fort Shopping Park

STRONG LOOK Crop top and shorts, Betty Designs www.bettydesigns.com

TOP OF THE CROPS Bra £9.99 and leggings £14.99, New Look

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STYLE STATE OF THE ART Combat print leggings and vests, HPE Clothing http://hpe-shop.com

STYLE TIP

Get rid of a that’s unco nything mfortable , impractica l doesn’t m or just ake yo feel good. u BARGAIN BUY Double layer shorts £6, Primark

BLACK AND WHITE Soft sports bra £22.50, M&S

STAND OUT

HIGH WAIST Avon Active full length leggings £18, www.avonshop.co.uk

Women’s New Balance beacon jacket £130, www.newbalance.co.uk

LONG LINE BRA Monochrome long line sports bra, Active in Style

COLOUR POP Jonathan Adler + Garmin Palm Beach Trio vivofit 2 bands £32.99, www.garmin.com

YOGA BUNNY Gaiam no-slip yoga socks, one size £7.99, John Lewis

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STYLE CLASSIC CUT Wide Wale cord trench £350, Jaeger

PULL CORD Rust cord dungaree pinafore dress £22.99, New Look

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HEAVY METAL Metallic jumpsuit, River Island

STAND OUT Self Portrait Ayelette crepe dress £320, Selfridges

THINGS WE LOVE

SPRING SORTED Octavia boot £159, Dune

FANTASY FOOTWEAR Sophia Webster Delphine metallic leather gladiator boots £505, Selfridges

JUMP TO IT Salsa denim jumpsuit £110, House of Fraser

WHITE OUT Augustina trouser, Hobbs

BELT UP Casual belted pocket day dress £150, Jaeger HEAD GEAR Head band, Accessorize

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STYLE

FASHIONFIT Men are ‘sport’ for choice when it comes to get-fit kit. Here’s our pick of the latest f like millions of folk across the globe you’re planning to get fit this year, sort your kit out first. We’ve pulled together some sporty pieces to get you going whether you’re launching into a serious training regime or starting from scratch. Our favourites – the Perry Ellis camo print waterproof jacket from House of Fraser – will have you looking cool whatever the weather and the versatile Jules padded jacket from Luke Roper is just as great with jeans as with your running gear.

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WHITE OUT Top and shorts, River Island, The Fort Shopping Park

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STYLE GREY DAY Collection textured cuff jogging £25, M&S, Pavilions Birmingham

WARM UP More Mile brite hat and glove set £9.99, Get the Label

KEEP RUNNING New Balance Beacon tight £70, www.newbalance.co.uk

CASUAL JOG Rump joggers £70, Luke Roper, Bullring

BE SEEN New Balance Beacon jacket £130, www.newbalance.co.uk

IN THE SWIM Dip dye swim shorts £17.50, M&S, Pavilions Birmingham

RIGHT TIGHTS Blue quick dry tights £19.99, Pavilions Birmingham CAMO GEAR Perry Ellis camo print hooded jacket £85, House of Fraser

BEAT THE BLUES Jack Wolfskin composite action jacket £49.99, Get the Label

FACE THE ELEMENTS Jules padded jacket £110, Luke Roper, Bullring

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HEALTH

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Intense workouts and mega-diets don’t work for everyone… so what are the alternatives for shifting some serious weight? hat’s top of your New Year Resolution hit list? For many it’s all about health and weight loss – a third of Brits say they aim to start fighting the flab in January. But what if regular dieting and fitness training isn’t enough? Losing weight has never been a bigger health issue with half of all women and 60 per cent of men officially classed as overweight or obese.

We asked experts at Spire Little Aston about the alternatives if regular workouts at the gym and the latest crash ‘miracle’ diets just aren’t working.

The first option is bariatric surgery – a weight loss solution for people who are overweight, providing significant weight loss for those with high BMIs and associated medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. For patients with a BMI of between 27 and 35 a gastric balloon can be inserted under sedation, while those with a BMI of more than 35 can opt for a gastric band or gastric bypass.

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LIFESTYLE CHANGES Minimally invasive techniques mean most patients make a rapid recovery, getting back to normal life quickly. But patients need to commit to long-term changes in lifestyle. “Often the best group of people to benefit from this type of surgery are yo-yo dieters – those who lose weight but cannot keep it off,” said consultant bariatric surgeon Amir Khan.

For many patients, losing weight is just half of the story – excess skin can affect self-confidence and mental wellbeing. Cosmetic procedures such as a tummy tuck, thigh and arm lift and face lift can often complete a body transformation.

FIT OR FAT? Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) by dividing your weight in kilos by your height in metres. In adults, a BMI of 25 to 29.9 means you are overweight. If that figure is above 30 you are obese.

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For patients with a BMI of 28 or above, medicines designed to stop fat being absorbed and supress appetite could help. These need to be combined with a diet low in sugar and saturated fat and increased activity levels.

“Most patients have tried dieting and lifestyle approaches and found that this is only limited in its success.” said Dr Andrew Hartland. “This is where weight loss medication can break yo-yo dieting cycles and keep weight off in the long term.” I

HOME TRUTHS Exercise is important in weight loss and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but it needn’t be expensive or time consuming. Here’s six no fuss tips to help you work out at home.

1 Write down your short and long-term goals to create a permanent and motivational weight loss plan.

2 Buy some home exercise equipment – a set of free weights, resistance bands, exercise ball and workout mat are good options that store easily.

3 Lift hand weights or run in place while you watch television. Do squats and lunges while you brush your teeth or comb your hair.

4 Move around more through the day – walk while you’re talking on the phone, take up gardening, ride your bike to work. All little steps that burn calories and promote an active lifestyle that aids in permanent weight loss.

5 Eat foods from all of the food groups. Include fruit, vegetables, lean protein, low-fat dairy and whole grains.

6 Keep an exercise journal. Before a workout, record your weight and the time of day. After each home workout, record the length of your session and the intensity.

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HEALTH

For more advice on weight loss contact Spire Little Aston 0121 580 7119

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NATURAL BEAUTY Fallen out of love with your bathroom?

New trends for 2016 will turn a woeful washroom into a pampering palace, says design expert Lisa Melvin

NEUTRAL CALM Ancorra bath £1,422, BC Designs www.bcdesigns.co.uk

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HOMES

RIGHT LIGHTS Astro Imola £600, Astro Lighting www.astrolighting.co.uk

t’s all about thinking naturally in bathrooms for 2016.

Setting the style are natural materials which are making a strong comeback, much to my delight. I prefer to use natural materials wherever practical. I love the romantic notion that each piece of wood or slab of granite has a history. Using a natural material in your own home allows you to admire and cherish it daily.

Wood burning stoves are a perfect example. For 2016 they’re moving out of the living room to create a sensual, beguiling ambience while you wallow in the bath. My latest project incorporates beautiful double-sided contemporary wood burning stoves positioned between the master bedroom and en-suite bathroom – so you can relax in front of a roaring fire while tucked up in bed or luxuriating in bubbles. Sheer bliss!

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STYLE STATEMENTS The creative use of these new wood burners shows how bathroom design is about so much more than pure practicality.

Style is king, as can be seen by some of the collaborations between the bathroom industry and the best designers in the world. Among the most renowned is Philippe Stark whose latest designs include the beautiful Stark V basin mixer.

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HOMES

TRADITIONAL CHARM Clear Water freestanding bath from £636, Bathroom City www.bathroomcity.co.uk

There’s also an exciting partnership between Axor and London designers Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby, famed for the 2012 Olympic torch.

Axor One makes a bold statement in your shower and radiates majestic tranquility with its flat shape, soft curves and generous proportions. All functions are concentrated in one central unit from which you can control the showers simply by pressing the relevant paddles.

Another British designer Tom Dixon has teamed up with Bisazza to launch Cementtiles. Inspired by London’s architectural landmarks, the range of handmade tiles is available in two sizes, square and hexagonal. I also love Alegna wooden baths and basins free-standing model. Its attractive design and high-quality workmanship as well as the natural warmth of the wood make it the central eye-catching element in every bathroom. Alegna’s bathtubs are manufactured using the best possible materials and feature carefully selected wood veneers compressed together under high pressure and completely saturated with resin – ensuring easy upkeep.

Also new for 2016, Duravit’s Cape Cod bathroom range includes a solid real wood and white high gloss combination by Philippe Stark incorporating a one-of-a-kind basin console and shelves for a stunningly beautiful elegant ensemble. Finally, I must mention the innovation of a shower toilet first launched in 1980 which has revolutionised bathrooms across Japan for nearly three decades. The Toto WASHLET has improved hygiene standards with its warm water cleansing system and air purification and automatic functions. It’s becoming a must-have in London’s top five star hotels – and is high on the wish list of my clients too. I

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HOMES

NATURAL LOOK Black slate split face tile £33.22 per sq metre, Tile Mountain www.tilemountain.co.uk

AMBIENT LIGHTING Rock star bathroom by Lisa Melvin Design www.lisamelvindesign.co.uk

SILK FINISH

Estataurio silk, 6mm from £120 sq metre, 12mm from £710 sq metre, Neolith www.neolith.com

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STATE OF THE ART TOTO rimless self-cleaning washlet from £2,200, Reflections Studio www.reflectionsstudio.co.uk

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HOMES SUNBURST Jonathan Charles sunburst mirror £756, Sweetpea and Willow

BRING YOUR TOOTHBRUSH Tommy anthracite toothbrush holder £5.50, Exit Interiors

GOLD RUSH Geo Luxe tumbler £3.99 and soap dispenser £5.99, Dunelm

VINTAGE VIBE Accessories, Amara

FINISHING

TOUCHES

Adorn your bathroom with these goodies for a polished look

BACK TO BLACK Alessi Birillo toilet brush £82, Black

by Design

COPPER TOP Aquanova Lura pedal bin £42.50, Amara

MOOD LIGHTING Set of four stainless steel lanterns £149, Cookes

SHELF LIFE Scandinavian oak shelving £70, Wilko

MAGIC MARRAKESH Moroccan tile £6.99, Homesense

THROW IN THE TOWEL Moroccan style hand towel £6, Sainsbury’s Home

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HOMES

Hot Properties This month we’ve rounded up some of the best new year properties for sale in the region, from the buzz of the city to tranquil village settings

FLEXIBLE LIVING Ivydene, Exhall, Alcester Guide price: £1.2m Agent: Fine & Country, tel: 01926 455950 Ivydene is a stunning four-bedroom detached house in a soughtafter village with a separate large converted barn, four garages, animal stables and three acres of land. The main house has a fabulous open plan kitchen and lounge, generous reception hall, study, master bedroom suite with dressing room and luxurious ensuite, family bathroom, Jack and Jill bathroom and large utility room.

The barn, which offers versatile accommodation options, has a double bedroom, bathroom, large lounge, office, kitchen, utility room, gym, music room and games area.

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HOMES

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HOMES

BRICKS&BITS MAILBOX GAINS TOP TECH FIRM Leading software and IT services supplier Advanced Computer Software Group has committed to a lease on the full 45,000 sq ft of the third floor of the newly refurbished Mailbox. Remodelling work is underway to get the space up to Grade A standard ready for the new tenants early this year. The deal could result in 400 new jobs for the region.

PROPERTY TEAMS DIG DEEP FOR NICE

TRANQUIL VILLAGE Pound Cottage, Earlswood Guide price: £950k Agent: Knight Frank, tel: 01789 297735 Pound Cottage is a beautifully presented, light and spacious family home with five bedrooms on the first floor and a further three to the second floor, which form an ideal self-contained suite for teenagers or guests. Outside the grounds are extensive and include a large gravel driveway, double garage, workshop, mature trees, lawns and a raised patio area.

Midlands property professionals came together to raise £2,500 for local charity NICE, a centre which supports people with incurable movement disorders. A charity drinks event was hosted by Office Agents Society and held at the Metro Bar and Grill. Louise Watkins of NICE said: “Through events like this we are able to provide hope for children, adults and their families.”

NEW LIFE FOR JQ HISTORIC BUILDING A project to breathe new life into the Assay Office in the Jewellery Quarter is due for completion this spring. Developer TCN’s plans are sensitive to the historic building and aim to create a new and inspiring workspace for a variety of businesses.

TCN also has planning approval for 32 residential units to the rear of the building.

From the industry’s movers and shakers to the latest groundbreaking developments… email your property news and pictures to shelley@brumliving.co.uk

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LOCATION, LOCATION Lavender House, Brueton Avenue, Solihull Guide price: £850k Agent: Hunters, tel: 0121 709 0111 This lovely Georgian-style semidetached home is situated in one of Solihull’s premier roads within halfa-mile of the town centre. It has a delightful living room, superb kitchen diner, four bedrooms including three luxury en-suites and a large family room that could easily be converted to a granny flat.

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HOMES

CONTEMPORARY NEW BUILD Weeford Road, Sutton Coldfield Guide price: £850k Agent: Paul Carr Estate Agents, tel: 0121 321 3003 Stylish and contemporary, this new build property includes six bedrooms with three en-suites, a fantastic open plan kitchen with dining and family area, stunning two-storey gallery landing, large lounge with bi-fold doors and a pretty rear garden.

FAMILY IDYLL Vernon Road, Edgbaston Guide price: £635k Agent: Fine & Country, tel: 0121 746 6400 A fine Victorian family home in leafy Edgbaston that has been beautifully refurbished to create the perfect balance of original features and contemporary design. There are five large double bedrooms, three reception rooms, an orangery and a stunning elevated patio that overlooks a generous garden.

Don’t miss Property of the Week on our Facebook page every Thursday www.facebook.com/bhamliving

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AUCTIONS

BIRTHDAY GEMS

Jewellery expert Liz Bailey explores the magic and meaning behind birthstones

common question jewellers are asked is: “What favour for the Anglo Saxons with the majority of the about my birthstone?” The birthstone convention embellished pieces being garnet set. is entwined with historical Thankfully, garnets can be found in an array CAST IN STONE of stunning antique jewellery, mostly owing to significance and folklore and plays a huge part in jewellery buying trends throughout the discovery of the Bohemian garnet deposits the year. But where did it all start? in central Europe around 1500. Consequently, Historians have argued that there are garnets became massively popular set in suites, passages as far back as the Bible where occasionally foil backed to enhance the colour birthstones allocated to set months are and often set in yellow gold, giving that warmth mentioned, albeit the actual identity to the and richness of colour. Mid-Victorian pieces can January – Garnet stones (listed as ‘a red stone, a blue stone, be found at auction, often cut as cabochons February – Amethyst March – Bloodstone and so on..’) remains a mystery. Modern day (rounded, with no facets), occasionally inset April – Diamond jewellers employ the Gregorian birthstone with pearls or diamonds, and very often set with May – Emerald calendar (see panel) which was unofficially gold tassels and in fitted cases. These antique June – Agate confirmed by Tiffany & Co in 1870. pieces are a joy to behold and a testament to the July – Ruby history of jewellery.

August – Sardonyx September – Sapphire HISTORY LESSON Although deep red garnets are often seen October – Opal It seems fitting that garnet is the in antique jewellery, the range of colours is November – Topaz birthstone for January, its deep sumptuous vast going from greens, oranges, pinks, December – Turquoise red hue has a warming effect – perfect for purples and occasionally some blue chilly New Year days! It is a stone with an exceptionally high examples. According to folklore, the stone is said to signify lustre, meaning that it reflects light off its surface to a much eternal friendship and trust, perhaps due to the durability of greater effect than most of the other birthstones. the stone. I Garnets also have great historical significance – only in Liz Bailey is the jewellery expert at Birmingham auctioneers Fellows. For more 2009 the famed Staffordshire Hoard was uncovered and in information and sales details visit www.fellows.co.uk or call 0121 212 2131. this fantastic collection garnets appear to be the gemstone of

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MOTORING

FREEZE & EASY The new DS4 Crossback is an impressive, good-looking premium car that can take everything the British winter throws at it, says Sue Cooke ’m sitting at my desk wrapped in a blanket alternately perching on my hands to de-ice my fingers so I can type. And yes my heating is on!

The thought of venturing out in the car on this January morning is daunting. But sitting on my drive is the new DS4 Crossback which went on sale in November.

I am itching to drive the Crossback which is ideal for this weather with a 30mm higher ride height and raised ground clearance, so much better equipped to deal with snow, ice and rutted tracks. It’s also got Intelligent Traction Control, a driving aid that prevents the front wheels slipping on surfaces with little grip as well as improving ‘start-up’ performance, particularly on snow-covered roads. So, no excuse for staying closeted inside!

DS Automobiles launched the DS4 Crossback and DS4 Hatchback at the same time, the latter

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being a more refined compact car, but both are built on the same platform. DS, the premium luxury brand of Citroen was inaugurated in 2014. As befits a top-end brand, with a price tag to match of course, the DS4 has gorgeous coupe styling with rear hidden door handles and offers personalisation options.

APPLE FIRST New owners can choose two-tone exterior paintwork with a choice of four colours for the roof, rear spoiler and door mirrors. There are nine body colours and 38 colour combinations to choose from.

It actually takes seven hours per car to achieve the paintwork, contributing to the price which for the DS4 Hatchback starts from £19,495 on the road.

The interior of the DS4 features lovely Nappa leather and comfortable seats with the DS signature watch strap design which is really attractive. For cold

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MOTORING

FACTS AT A GLANCE: Model: DS4 Crossback Elegance Price: £23,495 otr Engine: Blue HDi diesel 120 six-speed manual Performance: 0-62mph in 10.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 117mph CO2 emissions: 103g/km Combined fuel consumption: 72.4mpg

snaps there are heated and massaging seat options. A panoramic roof makes the cabin light and airy and a blue light which glows behind the instrument panel adds a touch of modernity.

And then there is the technology which includes keyless entry and start and a seven-inch full colour, very clear, reversing camera. The screen is designed to include new Mirror Link technology, a function that duplicates Android or iOS smartphone content to the in-car screen so it’s all easy to use. The DS4 is also the first DS to host Apple Car Play software which enables you to use voice control to make calls or ask for directions. Just plug in your iPhone and go!

For dark January nights there are LED Vision headlamps which have 84 LEDs at the front of the car projecting a very powerful light beam. In fact there are more than 10 driving aids in the car which are aimed to improve safety and comfort in bad weather.

At the launch of the DS4 I drove the model powered by the turbocharged Puretech 130 petrol engine which was awarded the International

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Engine of the Year prize and is combined with sixspeed manual gearbox which cuts both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 21 per cent. A petrol THP 210 was launched in December and is available exclusively on the Hatchback.

There are six engines to choose from in total including three Blue HDi diesel engines. The Blue HDi 120 is expected to be the best seller and the Blue HDi 180 is the most powerful. At the launch I drove the latter engine with the new EAT6 auto transmission which is a fantastic seamless gearbox.

The DS4 Hatchback and DS4 Crossback will complement the C segment which has tripled in size.

Now where did I put that de-icer! I You can follow Sue Cooke on Twitter @cookecars

SHOWROOM: Citroen Birmingham, 100 Small Heath Highway, Birmingham, B10 0BT. Tel: 0121 222 8669 www.crgbirminghamcitroen.co.uk

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

GEORGIA RICHARDSON

We caught up with the Midlands Young Designer of the Year and found out why a future in fashion was unavoidable. It’s in her DNA!

IN FULL FLOW: One of Georgia’s dramatic designs

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

eorgia Richardson was not keen to follow in the footsteps of her nan, mum and sister and pursue a career in fashion design, but in the end it won her over too. She explained: “It was an obvious choice given the family background. I tried to steer away from it and do something different, but in the end it was unavoidable.” Hence the name of Georgia’s new business, Fourth Generation.

Georgia was always into textiles at school and says she had a great teacher at RGS Worcester who prepared her brilliantly for her university interviews. Her portfolio was so impressive that the lecturers at the Manchester School of Art accepted Georgia straight onto their fashion design degree course rather than asking her to complete the year-long art foundation course which is customary for any budding designer or artist.

The foundation year allows students to study many forms of art and design, different materials and techniques before deciding which to specialise in. Georgia said: “I think they realised that I already had a specialism and my A-Level portfolio was on a par with the work I’d have been doing on the course. In some ways I’d have liked to have done the foundation to get another year of practice, but it was very flattering.” She was the only student on her course to have been given this fast track.

Obviously the family was very supportive of Georgia’s decision to go into the fashion industry and it was useful to have a sister that had recently gone through the same thing at Nottingham.

In 2015, at the end of her third year, Georgia was invited to show her work at graduate fashion week which was a “great experience” as was her involvement and ultimate win at the Midlands Fashion Awards. Georgia’s collection for the MFA catwalk show was futuristic and bold with lots of metallic and black, plenty of structure and a distinct warrior vibe that won the judges over.

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“Winning Midlands Young Designer of the Year has been great. I’ve had so much interest and exposure from radio and press.”

The way Georgia works is slightly unusual.

“I’m not the best drawer, so I tend to work in 3D straight away rather than making sketches. I start by cutting fabric and making shapes by draping it.” Inspiration is taken from everywhere including prints and even car engines! Georgia generally sources fabric from Birmingham and Manchester. “Although the rag market in Birmingham looks like a bit of a jumble sale it’s fantastic,” she said. She’s built up good relationships with her suppliers, the favourite being Barry’s Fabric in Brum.

CATWALK COLLECTION Georgia’s confident the Midlands has everything she needs and has no desire to head for the capital. She explained: “I can’t see what I’d be gaining by moving to London. I have my studio here. I’m trading online and if I need to be in London for a show I can get there easily anyway.”

The Fourth Generation designs are very different to the catwalk collection for MFA. The drama has been replaced with soft, feminine dresses that are handmade and made-to-measure

by Georgia. At the moment she is the business, but Georgia’s achievable ambitions suggest she has her head screwed on. “I’d like to expand, grow and learn more. I’d like to employ people and start manufacturing. At the moment I can only sell what I can make in a week. Currently we’re UKbased, but eventually I’d like to sell worldwide.” I wonder who Georgia would love to see wearing her clothes. She revealed: “I know she likes to wear her own designs but Victoria Beckham would be really great.” I Georgia’s Fourth Generation website launches on 1 February.

Visit www.fourthgeneration.uk.com

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GROWING PLACES

REBECCA CROWNS

ROYAL VISIT A royal visitor dropped in to see the work of students at Birmingham’s School of Jewellery. Sophie Countess of Wessex viewed the gemmology lab, a watch-making workshop and took a peek at the new technology hub with its 3D scanning equipment. After chatting to students, she was presented with a gift – jewellery, naturally – by graduate Rebecca Sellors.

SCHOOL REPORT

Birmingham Living is co mmitted to highlighting the best of our schools and colleges. Here’s ou r round-up of the latest stand-out news and ev ents

WINNING BOYS

MIND THEIR LANGUAGE Lordswood Boys School beat off stiff competition from 19 other schools to win the Birmingham SWAN Modern Foreign Languages quiz. The contest consisted of six rounds including two on French grammar and vocabulary – a language the boys don’t currently learn! Lordswood scored the highest mark in the listening round in which they had to interpret and translate in German, French and Spanish.

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GIRLS NAMED CIVIC CHAMPIONS Students from King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Girls were crowned Birmingham Civic Society’s 2015 Next Generation Awards champions with their inspiring YOUnify project. The project aims to educate nine-year-olds about Birmingham’s rich diversity and combat racism. Runners-up were Swanshurst School, Small Heath School and Lordswood Girls’ School.

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GROWING PLACES

LES MIS A HIT! Edgbaston High School for Girls took on its biggest theatrical production yet by staging hit musical Les Misérables. The sell-out show featured a cast of 80, including male students for the first time in the school’s history, supported by more than 100 backstage crew and musicians. The production was a huge success with standing ovations from the audience. The Saturday performances were dedicated to the people of Paris in the wake of the recent terror attacks.

DIGGING IN: Adam Frost with academy students

CAREERS BLOSSOM

AT COLLEGE STAR BAKERS: Bournville’s cake kings

THE MARZIPAN CITY Students from Bournville College were invited to create Birmingham’s skyline in cake form to celebrate the fourth birthday of the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar and Grill. The sweet treats were judged by MPW head chef Chris Haynes, former Great British Bake Off contestant Ali Imdad and food writer Paul Fulford who crowned the Birmingham Library cake the winner crafted by Bethany Vincent, Lauren Taylor and Shelby Mason.

This year’s crop of Homebase Academy students are honing their horticulture skills and getting ready for the world of work with help from Birmingham Metropolitan College. Forty students are benefitting from training at Winterbourne House and Gardens by college staff along with acclaimed garden designer Adam Frost as they work towards their RHS Level 1. Jon Kemp, head of gardens at Homebase, said: “Our academy was launched in 2013 to provide a pathway into a career in horticulture. We are delighted to be working with BMet.”

KES ON COURSE TO RAISE £10M King Edward’s School held an event at John Lewis Grand Central to raise awareness of its Assisted Places 100 (AP100) campaign. The school has a strong connection to John Lewis – managing director Andy Street is a former pupil and AP100 Campaign ambassador. The school is on course to reach its target of £10million to fund 100 assisted places in the school by this summer having so far raised just over £9million.

CAMPAIGNING: John Claughton, chief master of King Edward’s School

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ing livBUSINESS FEI LIU FINE JEWELLERY

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Acclaimed jewellery designer Fei Liu reveals how coming to Birmingham from his native China was a huge culture shock and why it took a while for him to ‘appreciate the Brummies’ ei Liu arrived from China 17 years ago to study at the Birmingham School of Jewellery and has never left. Although his big Brummie adventure got off to a decidedly rocky start, nearly two decades on Fei has built a reputation for excellence and won 28 international awards.

He set up his company, Fei Liu Fine Jewellery based in the Jewellery Quarter, in 2006 which has gone from strength to strength. It was named brand of the year at the UK Jewellery Awards last year as well as receiving the IJL editor’s choice visual impact award for his green tourmaline necklace (pictured).

Yet it could all have been so different for Fei. A delayed visa meant his dream of studying in the UK almost didn’t happen. The Birmingham School of Jewellery revoked his place on the basis that he’d be joining the course too late, but Fei was undeterred. He hopped on a plane regardless convinced he could talk the course directors round. Fei recalled: “When I arrived in Birmingham I met with the directors to persuade them to accept me. I waved my big fat cheque around and I was in – money talks you know!”

It wasn’t the reputation of the School of Jewellery that initially lured Fei, but the prospect of studying in the UK. He remembered: “It was a complete coincidence. I knew I wanted to come to the UK so I went along to an education day organised by the British Education Department in China and saw information on the School of Jewellery.”

He was impressed enough to apply.

On arriving in Birmingham it’s fair to say Fei was disappointed with his new home. He recalled, “I was in a taxi all excited to be here. I asked the driver when we’d

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be in Birmingham and he answered, ‘this is it’ and I thought it was a total mess. We were driving down Broad Street past the ICC and it was just the ugliest city at that time. It’s gone through such a transformation.”

It took a while for Fei to get to grips with the teaching methods in the UK as he had been educated in a very Chinese style. He explained: “I couldn’t understand the spirit of the British education. I had to adjust a lot and I began to understand the meaning of design. I’m very grateful to the school and in particular Maria Hanson who was a wonderful teacher.”

DAVID BECKHAM Fei excelled and was offered three jobs on graduation which is pretty unusual. He chose to take up a post as designer with prestigious Firmin & Son in the Gun Quarter. He stayed for five years and was promoted to head of design. While there he successfully relaunched the coveted Stratton of England powder compact that was originally popular in the 1920s with much admiration from people in the industry.

In 2004, Fei showed his work at spring fairs in New York and Milan and received huge orders from brands such as House of Fraser, John Lewis and Debenhams.

Work for the Football Association followed including a trophy for David Beckham and a wall plaque for the FA as well as work for Wedgewood, Hacketts and Aquascutum.

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COMPANY TO WATCH

Despite Fei’s foray into other forms of silver, jewellery is where his heart lies. In 2005, industry organisation the British Goldsmiths Company bought 200 pairs of Fei’s cufflinks to give out as gifts to VIP guests at one of their exhibitions in London.

He was delighted. “They sent out one cufflink with each invitation and gave out the matching one on the evening.” Fei went to the opening night and was thrilled to see a giant poster of his work alongside Cartier and Vivienne Westwood. “I grabbed a stranger on the Tube and told them! I was so excited.”

As Fei’s English improved he began to make more friends and to ‘appreciate the Brummies’ who he describes as the ‘kindest people’. Today, Fei takes bespoke orders in addition to his ready-to-wear fine jewellery collections and bridal offering and has roughly 40 stockists nationwide with an increasing international customer base online. As well as his obvious design talent, Fei has built a team of people around him that he values and nurtures. “I couldn’t do this without them. They are just the best people with their own talents. I’m so proud of them and I want all their dreams to come true too.” I Find out more about Fei Liu at www.feiliu.co.uk

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BUSINESS

PAUL DICES WITH DEATH VALLEY Daredevil cyclist Paul Heath has taken on the mighty Death Valley Challenge, pedalling 391km across the desert and raising more £6,000 for charity. The challenge took Paul five days and was in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and London’s Air Ambulance – the two charities supported by his employer, life and pensions provider Phoenix Group.

BUSINESS

NEWS

BLINDFOLDED: Hotel general manager James Bee with Dave Heeley

BLIND DAVE’S BIG CHALLENGE More than 60 guests sampled what life is like with a visual impairment when Macdonald Burlington Hotel, Birmingham joined forces with Queen Alexandra College for a charity Dinner in the Dark. During the reception lights were dimmed and guests blindfolded and led to their tables.

Among those at the event was Dave Heeley, known as ‘Blind Dave’, who attended QAC and is the first blind person to have completed seven marathons in seven days on seven continents.

LEGAL EAGLE EMMA REALISES DREAM Emma Beddows has joined law firm Kerwoods from mfg Solicitors as a partner. Her move is the culmination of a remarkable 25-year legal connection where she has risen all the way from secretary and office junior. “For me it is a huge moment,” said Emma. “I am absolutely thrilled.”

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ICE WORK: Joe Delucci’s founder Richard Pierce

GELATO JOE’S GOT IT LICKED! A new ice cream parlour is sending ripples of delight through sweet-toothed Brummies visiting Grand Central.

Authentic Italian gelato brand Joe Delucci’s reports a strong start for its newest venture, exceeding expectations in its first eight weeks. Number one seller is its Nocciolata chocolate and hazelnut flavour topping. The company also has a parlour in the Bullring.

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BUSINESS

YOUTH BOOST BY KPMG KPMG Birmingham has handed over a cheque for more than £6,500 to youth homelessness charity St Basil’s raised from staff donations. At an annual St Basil’s event hosted by KPMG at the firm’s One Snow Hill office, Nicky Welch presented the money to St Basil’s chief executive Jean Templeton. Meanwhile,

GROWING: Jason Blakey and Jason Granger of Gleeson with Gemma Hunt

KPMG has welcomed a new intake of 58 graduates –

FATHER AND SON SADDLE UP

10 up on the previous year.

CROWNING GLORY

FOR ROYAL IRENE Irene Allan has every reason to looked pleased – she’s one of a select group of restaurateurs to become a ‘Royal’. The director of Opus at Cornwall Street, Cafe Opus at Ikon and Bar Opus at One Snowhill has been awarded the role of academician at the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts. She is only the fourth hospitality professional from the city to take on the role, joining Glynn Purnell from Purnell’s and Luke

Next stop the Tour de France? CPBigwood partner Stephen Prichard and his son Mathew certainly look the part, and what’s more they can pedal a bit too having raised more than £700 for charity in the Tommy Godwin Challenge, a 100km ride through the lanes of Warwickshire. The money will go to CLAPA, the Cleft Lip and Pallet Association.

Tipping and Andreas Antona from Simpsons.

THEY’RE 150 AND STILL GOING STRONG! It’s 150 not out for the world’s oldest press club.

Birmingham Press Club board directors past and present joined the Lord Mayor Cllr Raymond Hassell at a special reception held at Birmingham City Council House to mark the club’s 150th anniversary. President Bob Warman and chairman Ed James were among those attending.

PRESS GANG: Gary Phelps, Cllr Raymond Hassell, Rachael Barker, John James and Bob Warman. Picture by Ian Tennant

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BUSINESS

RECRUITERS

MOVE AHEAD A rapidly-expanding recruitment company has a new home in Birmingham. Gleeson Recruitment was launched in October 2011 with six staff but now employs more than 50 with two further offices in London and Reading. Gleeson worked with Gemma Hunt, relationship manager at NatWest, to secure funding to enable them to triple the size of their office now in Birmingham’s central business district.

HSBC SIGNS UP AT CHAMBER Banking giant HSBC has signed up as the 35th patron of Birmingham Chambers of Commerce. The bank is switching its UK retail operations and at least 1,000 head office roles from London to Arena Central in a move which should be completed within three years. HSBC’s roots in the UK began in Birmingham with the opening of the first branch of the Birmingham and Midland Bank in 1836.

WELCOMING HSBC: Chambers chief executive Paul Faulkner

DAVINDER HEADS BUSINESS AWARDS When Davinder Rana set up her fledgling security business it had just two people in a tiny office in Hagley Road. Two years later the workforce has grown to 50 – and Davinder has been named Outstanding Business Woman of the Year at the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Awards. The Services Group (TSG) now provides a wide range of security and response services, has moved into new WINNERS: Successful line-up at the Asian Business Awards premises and projects £2million turnover by 2018.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: MD Debra Hepburn and commercial director Angel Gibbons

AGENCY GETS ITS SKATES ON Midlands creative communications agency RHB is celebrating its 20th birthday as only it knows how – with a new look and brand-powering philosophy called RBH BRANDSKATES. The celebrations also include a social media campaign to share memories and photos across the years. The agency was founded in 1995 by Tim Rees, Ian Bradbury and Debra Hepburn. Clients span fashion, beauty, retail, leisure, automotive and B2B.

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INSURANCE FIRM HELPS HEART KIDS Birmingham-based Monaco Insurance Services opened its new offices in Harborne Road, Edgbaston at an event attended by clients and key partners. The firm used the evening to reinforce its commitment to the local community by presenting £12,000 to Birmingham Children’s Hospital for two heart machines. Monaco was established in 2010 by Amrik Chote and Kay Gill.

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BUSINESS

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WHAT BUSINESS NEEDS FROM BRUM We’ve had a universally warm welcome… I’m a Brummie by birth and after 30 years away it’s an absolute joy to come home

Please introduce yourself I’m Lisa Williams, head of branch at John Lewis Birmingham – the 45th opening for the company. My role is to lead and manage the branch team, ensuring excellent customer service and healthy growth. The team is made up of 570 John Lewis partners plus the staff on concessions resulting in up to 680 heads working in the store – not all at the same time obviously! I’m a Brummie by birth, but I’ve been away for 30 years working in other John Lewis stores – Peterborough, High Wycombe, Bristol to name a few, so it’s an absolute joy to come home.

What does your company do?

Retail clearly, but we’re also looking to engage the community so we’re working with local charities and we offer an accessible meeting space for local businesses and organisations in the form of the Community Hub space we’ve created.

Does Birmingham offer any particular advantages as a destination for business?

Its location is number one for obvious reasons, but also the people and their Lisa Williams, head of John Lewis Birmingham attitude make doing business here effective and enjoyable. It’s also a beautiful city which helps.

Is Brum a good place to do business?

It’s an excellent place to do business. The city is well-liked and well-connected – three major motorways and the busiest station outside London which we’re lucky enough to sit on top of. There are lots of skills here too with wonderful pockets of creativity such as the Jewellery Quarter and Digbeth.

What are your biggest gripes with it?

The city could be easier to get around, but in fairness this is already happening with the reintroduction of the trams. I’d take it a step further and join up the networks in different ways.

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”

How do you feel your clients see the city?

We’ve had an almost universally warm welcome from the people who wanted to work for John Lewis – of which there were many – to our customers, brands that were eager to get on board and the existing retail sector.

We’re not competing against other retail brands in the city, but strengthening it. We all offer something different and that’s fantastic for Birmingham and for the customer. They’re starting to see the city invested in and it’s great for everyone.

What should our priorities be as a city?

To join forces, carry on the resurgence and promote Birmingham outside the city even more than we do already.

If you had £1bn to spend on improving Brum what would you do with it?

I’d take the partnership approach and engage the people of Birmingham splitting the sum two or three ways on really worthwhile projects. I’d look at housing in particular and make it possible and genuinely affordable for people to live in the city centre which serves to anchor business. I

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SOCIAL SCENE

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Former England cricket star leads the celebration of decade in Birmingham embers of the Birmingham office of Investec Wealth & Investment were joined by friends and clients at Edgbaston Cricket Ground to celebrate the 10th anniversary of business in the city. To mark the success of the England team in this summer’s Investec Ashes series, former England cricketer and Investec ambassador Chris Broad delighted the audience with stories from his sporting career.

Investec’s Birmingham office has 15 investment professionals managing £1.1 billion for a range of clients and advisors. I

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1 Tony Elvin, Craig Cotterill, Anita Bhalla, Jonathan Carter, Michael Matthews. 2 Gary Newbon, Craig Findall, Adrian Quin. 3 David Campbell, Julie Watkins, Nigel Ledger. 4 Chris Broad. 5 Liz Law, John Kelly, Andrea Lobb. 6 Michael Matthews, Rayner Grice, Fiona Debney, Anne Evans.

7 Bob Malden, Nic Heath, Tim Basnett, Paul Knight, Derek Inman. 8 Ian Flavell, Mike James, Nathan Dosanjh, Gary Callow, Martin Green.

9 Nick Jones, John McQuay, Gaye Bye, Martin Lord.

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SOCCER LEGEND ON TARGET AT OPENING Cyrille Regis is the model of style at Steel & Jelly’s big launch party ore than 200 guests attended the launch of the new Steel & Jelly flagship store at Grand Central. They were treated to cocktails, tapas and live music while former local football legend Cyrille Regis turned model to preview Steel & Jelly’s latest clothing collection.

Steel & Jelly is a family business established in Birmingham in 2004 and owner Nish Thakrar said: “In line with our recent programme of expansion we are very excited to have opened our new store in Grand Central.” I

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1 Krishna Thakrar, Satish Thukrac, Kirit Thakrar. 2 Matthew Kinnes, Damian Navas. 3 Mike Lister, Julia Regis, Cyrille Regis, Laclan Macpherson.

4 Hannah Cossar, Rachel Wolstenholme. 5 Tony and Elizabeth Taylor. 6 Gora, Nish Thakrar, Omar Allibhoy. 7 David Wheeler, Suresh Kumar-Dhir. 8 Kirit Thakrar, Rebecca Williams, Jeanette Wong, Shaks Kurshid.

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PROPERTY FIRM HOSTS CHAMPAGNE EVENING 4

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Wolfs welcomes key industry figures at networking event roperty professionals Wolfs hosted a networking event for more than 90 guests at Hotel du Vin. Lotty Harper Events along with EDGE Creative brought together key figures from the property industry including K4 Architects and Suzanne Barnes Design Partnership for an evening of chit-chat, laughter and Champagne. David Wheeler of Birmingham Films was the winner of the business card draw, claiming a winter blazer donated from Steel & Jelly menswear, who have just opened a flagship store in Grand Central. I

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1 Del Griffiths, Alfred Bartlett, Suzanne Barnes. 2 Keith Collins, Joan Smith, Henrik Court. 3 John Lowe, Jon Wood, Elaine Shoesmith.

4 Vivian Coles, Evi Elia. 5 Alex Tross, Rad Vuckovic. 6 Sam Meeten, Terry Michael, Steve Evans. 7 Ian Marriot, Max Totney, Lloyd Ansermoz. 8 Nishil Thakrar, Sam Reader, Jeanette Wong. 9 Manuela Rubino, Kieran Courtney, Nick Minder.

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NIGHT TO REMEMBER WITH BOYS IN TUTUS Big Apple’s riotous dance company en pointe for Hippodrome’s ladies ippodrome Leading Ladies met for an evening of networking alongside a performance of New York’s riotous dance company, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo. The boys in tutus and overstated mascara wowed the audience with their stunning en pointe technique.

During the pre-show reception Leading Ladies made brick lanterns with artist Sophie Handy as part of the 2,241 Reasons to Remember: Birmingham Blitz project commemorating lives lost during three nights of intensive bombing in November 1940. The event raised £1,000 for the theatre’s Heritage project. I

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1 Jenny Bomber, Jo Kirk, Gus Virk. 2 Cherry West, Jo Williams, Fiona Alexander. 3 Claire Bullock, Helen Jane Arnold, Helen Blackburn, Fiona Allan, Judy Metcalfe, Helen Benussi. 4 Sukhy Nijjar, Carol Turner, Siobhan Cutts. 5 Michelle Ward, Jo Miners, Hannah Bracknell.

6 Hua Shen, Angela Qi Huang, Ina Che, Yan Piao. 7 Back: Liz Leck, Ildiko Nagy, Sophie Handy. Front: Beth Rose, Faye Shipley, Carole Patilla.

8 Hannah Evans, Shelley Carter, Beth Purdue, Charlotte Warren, Hina Simpson.

Photography by Vivienne Bailey

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COOKING UP A STORM IN NEW-LOOK STUDIO Tasty treats in store for lucky guests as Gallery unveils revamped displays

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he Gallery Showroom celebrated the completion of three full-scale Mackintosh kitchen displays by hosting one of Siemens extremely talented chefs Karen Walker for a cooking demonstration extravaganza.

Guests enjoyed a full demonstration of the new Studioline collection. Director Lisa Melvin said: “The evening was a fantastic success. We were incredibly excited to showcase our new revamped design-led kitchen studio and it provided an excellent opportunity to treat our clients and friends to a delicious menu from Karen.” I

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The Gallery Showroom, Rugby tel: 01788 866945 www.galleryshowroom.co.uk

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1 Carl Porter, Lisa Melvin, Eddie Lawley. 2 Fin Birrane, Tracey Lennard, Jean Thompson. 3 Ruth Reay, Victoria Niblock, Sarah Coates.

4 Andrew and Gisela Blee. 5 Kathleen and Robert Gurnsey. 6 Hywel Davies, Lisa Melvin. 7 Sara and Stewart Bray.

8 Glynis Simpson, Jean Melvin. 9 Anita and Andy Newell.

Photography by Designer Photography

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HENRY WONG HOSTS BOLLYWOOD NIGHT Evening in support of Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer proves to be a big hit enry Wong, Harborne hosted its annual Bollywood evening in support of Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer. Guests, including ITV presenter Genelle Aldred, were treated to delicious dishes prepared by the team at Mahir – allowing Henry Wong’s executive chef Ricky Wu a rare night off! “Henry Wong’s owner Parm Rai is one of the most active and valued supporters of LFBC so we were thrilled to hold the event here once again.” said the organisation’s chairman Veronica Kumeta. I

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1 Jan Johnson, Ami Chatha, Veronica Kumeta. 2 Lesley Hewitt, Anne O’Hanlon, Pat Fox, Navdeep Bains. 3 Lisa and John Mulheir, Pat Wright, Tracey Towers. 4 Kevin Chan, Bal Badesha. 5 Kim Haynes, Trish Kennedy, Lucie Haynes. 6 Parm Rai, Veronica Kumeta. 7 Georga Harvey Duncan-Price, Mark Powell. 8 Harris Byrne, Kay and Lara White, Daniel Harris Byrne. 9 Nin Chahal, Jas Sansi 10 Natalie Wager, Cat Shandley Photography by Jas Sansi

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SANTA CAUSE RAISES CASH FOR SURVIVORS City businesses support one man’s crusade to help victims of violence

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here were Father Christmases galore when local businessman Jeremy Walker organised Santa Cause 2 – an event to raise money to support survivors of rape and sexual violence in Birmingham and Solihull. More than 100 guests donned Santa outfits supplied by sponsor Orton Estates and enjoyed a welcome drink at the Hyatt Regency Hotel before moving on to Malmaison, the Chameleon Restaurant and Bar and finally Chung Ying Central, Colmore Row. The evening raised £2,000 towards the work of the RSVP support organisation. I

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1 Janie Varney, Jeremy Walker, Alex Ellis. 2 Keith Williams, Mark Dunne. 3 Kash, Stewart Sherman-Khan. 4 Claire Taylor, Julie Johnson.

5 Nicole Mason-Rawle, Bethany Down. 6 Andy Jones, Denise O'Neil, Andy Monk. 7 Paresh Parmar, Ross Martin. 8 Dom Murphy, Tom Thompson, Sam Kossar, Kris Shenoi, Antony Orton, Damien Cassidy.

Photography by Seven Star Photography

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PAMPERING PARADISE OPENS WITH A PARTY New spa promises the ultimate in luxury at Bank House Hotel ank House Hotel officially opened its luxury Malvern View Spa with an exclusive preview party. The new spa boasts an indoor swimming pool and panoramic sun terrace, fitness suite, thermal suite featuring a Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, as well as luxurious treatment rooms. There’s also a Champagne nail bar and deluxe pedicure station. Hotel general manager Richard Bailey said: “We hope the Malvern View Spa will be the ultimate haven for those who wish to truly relax and indulge.” I

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1 Alison Pickerill, John Gibson, Jo Bourne. 2 Claire Turner, Sue and Russ Mason. 3 Tracey Wheelan, Abbey Eaton, Chris Eaton, Vicky King, Mel Griffiths. 4 Briony and Clem Serrell. 5 Jo and Craig Barry. 6 Katie Griffiths, Lance Turner. 7 Chris and Jo Pennell.

8 Irene Kay, Jenny Wood, Michael Kay, Peter Wood, Claire Turner. 9 Vince Hopkins, Andrew Grant.

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WHAT: Wendy and Peter Pan WHEN: Now until 31 January WHERE: Royal Shakespeare Theatre, tel 01789

WHAT: Gary Delaney

403493 www.rsc.org.uk

WHEN: 7 February

The magical adaptation of JM Barrie’s classic novel by Ella Hickson returns to the RSC with Charlotte Mills as Tink and Darrell D’Silva as Captain Hook.

WHERE: Glee Club Birmingham, tel 0871 472 0400 www.glee.co.uk/birmingham Gary Delaney is back with a brand new show entertaining his many fans with his famous one-liners and expertly crafted comedy.

WHAT: An Enchanted Evening WHEN: 20 February WHAT: Historic Rally Car Register Open Day

WHERE: Museum & Art Gallery, tel 0121 348 8000

WHEN: 16 January

www.birminghammuseums.org.uk

WHERE: British Motor Museum, www.hrcr.co.uk This special HRCR Open Day at the newly-renamed British Motor Museum celebrates 50 years since the controversy created by the Mini on the 1966 Monte Carlo Rally and its continued success and popularity in historic rallying today.

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A unique chance to journey through the charming pre-Raphaelite exhibition Enchanted Dreams in the twilight hours. Enjoy the collection of E R Hughes’s world famous masterpieces during an immersive evening event with various surprises along the way! Pre-booking is essential.

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WHAT’S ON

WHAT: Kenny Thomas WHEN: 27 January WHERE: The Jam House, tel 0121 200 3030 www.thejamhouse.com

WHAT: Hozier

Having scored several hits in the 90s Kenny’s first album sold more than 600,000 copies. He’s now touring again on the back of his new album Breathe.

This is one fine English soul singer.

WHEN: 2 February WHERE: O2 Academy Birmingham, tel 0121 622 8250 The global star continues to soar – two Billboard awards, a coveted Ivor Novello, stunning festival sets and now his one and only UK tour of 2016 before he takes time out to work on a new album after the huge success of his acclaimed debut.

WHAT: TNA Wrestling – Maximum Impact Tour 8 WHEN: 31 January

WHAT: Motionhouse: Broken

WHERE: Barclaycard Arena, tel 0844 338 8000

WHEN: 9 and 10 February

www.theticketfactory.com

WHERE: mac Birmingham, tel 0121 446 3232

A chance for Brummie fans to say goodbye to the multiple world heavyweight champion legend Kurt Angle as part of his Farewell Tour. The roster is also set to include international stars such as Lashley, Matt Hardy, EC3 and Gail Kim.

www.macbirmingham.co.uk An awe-inspiring show with something for everyone. Athletic contact work, spectacular acrobatics and a gripping narrative combine with a revolutionary set design and digital imagery that melds with the performers as they move.

WHAT: Olly Murs and Bruno Mars with Robbie Glenn WHEN: 6 February WHERE: Nailcote Hall, tel: 02476 466174 www.nailcotehall.co.uk WHAT: Slipknot WHEN: 12 February WHERE: Genting Arena, tel 0844 338 8000 www.ticketfactory.com After their triumphant return headlining last year’s Download Festival at Donington Park, the multi-platinum, Grammy awardwinning metal icons return to the UK with their spectacular live show.

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An amazing evening with the UK’s No 1 tribute to Bruno Mars and Olly Murs.

Capturing the hits, the moves, the voices and unique style of these two fabulous performers complete in one show.

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WHAT’S ON

WHAT: The Bon Jovi Experience WHEN: 22 January WHERE: Palace Theatre Redditch, tel 01527 65203 www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk These boys are the world’s only tribute act to have been requested by and to have performed live on stage with Jon Bon Jovi himself as well as featuring on the official band website. Awesome.

WHAT: Nigel Kennedy WHEN: 31 January WHERE: Symphony Hall,

WHAT: Kelly Mark – 108 Leyton Ave

box office 0121 345 0600

WHEN: 27 January to 3 April

www.thsh.co.uk

WHERE: Ikon Gallery, tel 0121 248 0708

The iconic British violinist turns back the clock as he performs an acoustic version of his ground-breaking Four Seasons.

www.ikon-gallery.org Ikon’s Tower Room hosts this new film by Canadian artist Kelly Mark. Developed when she was living in the social isolation of a remote part of Toronto, Mark’s thought-provoking film explores the insecurities of being alone.

WHAT: Death of a Salesman WHEN: 16 to 30 January WHERE: Crescent Theatre, tel 0121 643 5858

WHAT: Performance Car Show

www.crescent-theatre.co.uk

WHEN: 14 to 17 January

Arthur Miller’s modern American tragedy explores the unravelling life of Willy Loman who finds himself at the end of his career but no closer to achieving his dreams. Powerful stuff.

WHERE: Birmingham NEC, tel 0844 338 0338

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www.thenec.co.uk With iconic brands like Lamborghini, Ferrari, McLaren, Aston Martin and Porsche on hand this show is the ultimate destination for performance car aficionados.

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WHAT’S ON WHAT: Dinosaur Zoo Meet the T-REX! WHEN: 13 and 14 February WHERE: Town Hall, box office 0121 345 0600 www.thsh.co.uk Calling all dino lovers… come and see the best monsters in town as these awesome prehistoric creatures are brought to life

WHAT: Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty WHEN: 9 to 13 February WHERE: Birmingham Hippodrome, tel 0844 338 5000 www.birminghamhippodrome.com This dazzling production has won the hearts of thousands and smashed box office records across the UK and the US since its premiere. With sumptuous sets and costumes, evocative lighting and masterly storytelling this is a truly wonderful show.

WHAT: The Snowman

WHAT: The Rocky Horror Show

WHEN: 20 to 24 January

WHEN: 25 to 30 January

WHERE: Birmingham Rep,

WHERE: New Alexandra Theatre,

tel 0121 245 2024

tel 0844 8713011

www.birmingham-

www.atgtickets.com/birmingham

rep.co.uk

The famous rock ‘n’ roll musical is back by popular demand. Following more than 40 years of worldwide productions, Richard O'Brien’s Rocky Horror Show is a non-stop party. Starring Diana Vickers, Ben Freeman and Paul Cattermole

Based on Raymond Brigg’s much-loved book and featuring Howard Blake’s classic song Walking In The Air, this enchanting live stage show has thrilled audiences for more than 20 years.

WHAT: Lee Nelson: Suited & Booted WHEN: 3 February WHERE: The Old Rep Theatre, tel 0121 605 5116 www.oldreptheatre.org.uk He headlined Glastonbury with Kanye West and bribed Sepp Blatter at FIFA’s headquarters. Now he’s extending his sell-out tour into 2016. Catch Lee Nelson at his absolute best... live and unleashed.

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IN THE CITY You can usually find me driving into town twice a day down Bristol Road in my 1965 green Land Rover. It’s been in my family for more than 50 years so it’s a really loved vehicle – and a real joy to drive

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF I am John Bunce, manager of The Jam House for the past 12 years and in the entertainment business in Birmingham for the last 30. The Jam House is a live music venue, restaurant and bar featuring quality local musicians as well as internationally known artists, such as Jools Holland, Alexander O’Neal and Snow Patrol.

HOW DO YOU GET INTO TOWN? I live with my family in Barnt Green and come into the city twice a day – once in the morning to prepare for that evening’s show and then for the show itself. You can usually find me driving down Bristol Road in my 1965 green Land Rover. It’s been in my family for 55 years so it’s a really loved vehicle and a joy to drive.

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from my old friend Nick at Andersons Bar and Grill on Mary Anne Street.

LUNCHTIME? I rarely have lunch at work as I finish my morning shift at around 2pm. Usually I make my way home and have lunch there. If I do eat out during the day, I will pop into Andersons or Cucina Rustica on Ludgate Hill for a bowl of pasta.

POWERWALKING? Having recently moved house, I spend all my time working in the garden trying to restore it to its original beauty. On Sundays when the grandchildren come over we often spend the day in the Lickey Hills.

WHERE’S YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE CITY? It has to be the Jewellery Quarter! It’s HOW'S THE COMMUTE? been such a huge part of my life – its John Bunce, manager of The Jam House More challenging over the past year sense of community, its historical context. due to all the road works, such as at Paradise Circus.

We all support each other here in business and in friendship.

Sometimes I catch the cross-city train into the new and impressive Grand Central station. It’s a short walk over the AFTERWORK PINT? hill to The Jam House.

After work can mean 3am or so once everything is tidied up and ready for the next day. On the occasion we take the IS BRUM A GOOD PLACE TO WORK IN? staff for a thank you drink it’s usually to the Actress and I have always enjoyed working here. It’s a big city but Bishop on Ludgate Hill which is open until 4am. retains the friendliness and intimacy of a thriving town. It’s a perfect home for The Jam House as we have a wide HOW CAN THE CITY BE MADE BETTER? catchment area – only 50 per cent of our audience comes to There’s been considerable investment in the city centre us from within the ‘B’ postcode. but a lack of it in the outer areas – which emphasises the drab and shabbiness of these surrounding areas. The city COFFEE BREAK? centre is a blossoming metropolis, but everywhere else Saint Kitchen a lovely, friendly little coffee bar a few needs a bit of love, too. There are beautiful places outside door down in St Paul’s Square. I also scrounge a coffee of town…I

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