Birmingham Living January 2024 (issue 129)

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January 2024

TOASTING 2024 COMMIT TO FIT DRIVING WITH DOLPHINS

BATHROOM BONANZA

SHARON OSBOURNE

MARVERINE COLE

READY TO ROCKÁ LIVE AND UNLEASHED

THE YOUNG CURATORS

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EDITOR’S VIEW

T

he wonderful Michael Bublé opened the new-look Arena Birmingham (now the Utilita Arena) just ahead of New Year back in 2015. Don’t ask me why, but this fact flashed through my mind as I pondered writing my first Editor’s Letter of a new year (my brain can be a bit random like that at times!).

I think the thought was triggered by hearing the lyrics of one his greatest hits on the radio: It’s a new dawn, It’s a new day, It’s a new life, For me, And I’m feeling good. So, welcome to 2024, Birmingham! Do we feel good?

As it’s a time for resolutions, I’ve come up with a few things that I’d like to see happen over the next 12 months.

Some are tongue-in-cheek, but not all – I’ll leave you to decide which is which…

A Midlands football club wins the Premier League – You all know who I mean (I’m looking at you Villa Park).

Whether you love or hate the claret and blues, just think what bringing the top title home would mean for the city’s status and economy. Roll on, Champions League!

Birmingham City Council wins the Lottery – The debt-ridden corridors of power could do with hitting the jackpot. All donations gratefully received!

Birmingham is nominated to host the Commonwealth Games, again! – With the Games struggling to find a home moving forward, Brum has the infrastructure (and the love) ready and waiting. Just need some cash Rishi to make it happen!

Ozzy gets a knighthood – It’s time to recognise one of rock’s true legends. Wherever he’s been in the world, whatever he’s achieved, he’s never stopped being the ultimate proud Brummie. So, arise Sir Ozzy!

Welcome, the HS2 trainset – Available in the spring, fits on any sitting room floor… and doesn’t cost a fortune!

s n h o J d i v Da

visit www.brumliving.co.uk @brum_living Cover image:

Sharon Osbourne – anyone for tea?

/bhamliving

FINALIST

EDITOR: David Johns david@brumliving.co.uk FEATURES EDITOR: Shelley Carter shelley@brumliving.co.uk DESIGNER: Tracy Duffy

CONTRIBUTORS: Sue Cooke, Katie Gardner, Adam Kirtland 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

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g n i liv

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INSIDE

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Highlights

Sharon Osbourne

Ready to rock, cutting out the crap and bringing Ozzy-mania right back to Brum

Marverine Cole Beer, Brum and broadcasting! Ale’s well as the TV presenter reveals her top tipple

New Year Food & Drink Bishal Rasaily of Dishoom spices it up, plus sparkling resolutions for wine lovers

Health Get up and get at it! Now is the time to launch 2024 with the brand new you!

Style Train hard, look great! How to make a fashion statement while you get in shape

Homes Hotting up – goodbye boring bathrooms, hello character, texture and warmth

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CONTENTS

Best of the Rest

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Gardening

Want the best garden around this year?

Adam Kirtland reveals 2024’s hottest trends

Motoring Sue Cooke takes the plunge in new hatch called Dolphin from Chinese giant BYD

Young, Gifted & Brummie Not one but six young creatives produce new digital work inspired by Moseley Road Baths

Business News This month’s news and views from the commercial community, plus Social Scene

New Year What’s On Best of the city’s top shows and gigs in our round-up of the must-see events

Up Close With Neil Mackintosh, head of social mobility at Tile Cross Academy

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NEWS

FESTIVAL FEVER More than 120,000 people visited last year’s free Birmingham Festival 23 – held to mark the one-year anniversary of the Commonwealth Games – according to official numbers just released. Centred on Centenary Square over 10 days, data shows that nearly 50,000 stayed at least three hours at the festival, enjoying a huge variety of artists, performers and creatives.

More than a third of visitors said they were attending an outdoor festival for the first time, and 96 per cent wanted the Square used more often for cultural events.

NEWS

HOME SWEET HOME We’re a home-loving lot, us Brummies!

But don’t take our word for it, just ask

BRINGING YOU THE BRIGHTEST AND MOST COLOURFUL STORIES FROM ACROSS THE CITY EACH MONTH

the experts at HM Land Registry. By analysing ownership data from the Registry from the past 30 years, Online Mortgage Advisor has put together a table of where Brits live who own their homes the longest – and Birmingham is in the top 10. The research reveals Brummies’ average length of stay is 11 years and 5 months, while those in South Staffordshire stay in their properties longer than anywhere else in the country.

KIDS’ THEATRE BOOST Birmingham Hippodrome raised more than £34,000 to provide every Special Educational Needs (SEN) school in Birmingham with access to theatre. Cash from the Big Give Christmas Challenge will support all 28 SEN schools by providing tickets for students to attend a Relaxed Performance – which encourages an atmosphere where everyone feels safe and able to react to a show as they wish. Judith Greenburgh, head of Hippodrome fund-raising and development, said: “The money will give 6,000 people the chance to experience theatre.”

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NEWS

MUSIC MATTERS B:Music, the charity responsible for Symphony Hall and Town Hall, has launched an appeal to enrich the lives of disadvantaged children and communities through music.

Cost of living increases mean many are not getting opportunities to experience live performances at the world class venues, while access to music in schools has also significantly dropped. Donations to the charity’s Gift of Music Appeal to help bring music back to youngsters can be made at bmusic.co.uk/gift-of-music until 6 January.

MEDICS CASH Aston Medical School has won a £1.6million

LOVING LIONEL In case you’ve forgotten… love is just around the corner with the approach of Valentine’s Day. And historic hotel Nailcote Hall in Berkswell is ready to woo romantics with Lionel Richie's greatest love songs.

Celebrated Soul and Motown artist Babalola Jr, known for his collaborations with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, brings his new show Young Lionel to the Hall, celebrating the amazing vocal talents of the legend as well as his magical stage presence. Prepare to be swept off your feet!

grant to help future medics. The award was made by the National Institute for Health Research to develop degree and internship programmes. Aston won the funding following a national competitive process involving other UK medical schools. Dr Shakil Ahmad, the intercalated degree lead, led the funding application. The intercalated degree programme will allow medical school undergraduates to complete another professional qualification during their medical degree.

MUDDY MARVELLOUS Brace yourselves, Birmingham! Mud, sweat and glory are heading this way as Tough Mudder announces an exciting new event for 2024. Tough Mudder Birmingham will take place on 7 and 8 September at Ragley Hall, Alcester. The Hall’s rugged terrain will push participants to their limits with hair-raising challenges and epic obstacles. It’s a must-attend event for thrill-seekers, fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking to test their mettle. For more information and to register visit: https://toughmudder.co.uk/events

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NEWS

RUNNING THE SHOW If you’re among the thousands looking to get fitter in the new year there’s some welcome help to get those feet moving this month when the National Running Show rocks up at the NEC. The show on 20/21 January is known as the home for runners, no matter how far or fast you go, and it’s perfectly timed if you’re training for events in the spring with inspirational speakers, cutting-edge technologies and the best in nutrition – all under one roof!

SNORT STORY Here’s a new book that aims to make children squeal with delight. Snorty the Pig, the mascot at Hatton Country World near Warwick, has launched his first adventure story. Magical Happenings at Hatton Country World features three of the venue’s staff, with each story providing a moral and lesson for the reader.

While Snorty is a very talented chap, we are told that Arabella Arkwright, co-owner of Hatton, may have helped him just a bit with the production!

PLAYGROUND HELP

FASHION IN STORE

Great news for all you New Year fashion shoppers – Phase Eight and Hobbs have re-opened at Merry Hill with brand new stores providing even more choice across womenswear, footwear and accessories. The two shops have relocated together to the Upper Mall. The brands’ expansion further builds on Merry Hill’s fashion offering, including Mango, Dune London, Beaverbrooks, Kurt Geiger and M&S.

JUNIORS GEAR UP

An adventure playground has been given a new lease of life thanks to Birmingham Airport. Meriden Adventure Playground Association in Chelmsley Wood was awarded £5,000 by the airport’s independently-run Community Trust Fund.

Meriden’s general manager Zoe Hill, said: The funding will help replace some worn areas, install new equipment and enhance play at the playground, while also ensuring our staff are up to date in their skills and knowledge.”

Don’t they look smart! Young footballers at Hawkins Juniors FC, Walsall are suited and booted after they were sponsored by David Wilson Homes. The Eagles U11s are now boasting sharp new training jackets to help them keep warm during winter training sessions. Team manager Ben Woodward said: “Myself, the parents and the players are grateful for the donation. Times have been hard for everyone over the last year, so this sponsorship is a massive weight off of the team, providing them with clothing through the colder months.

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NEWS

CHARITY SWAP

A major grant-giving organisation has completed the takeover and £1.2million asset transfer of a Birmingham charity. The move by Heart of England Community Foundation means South Birmingham Friends Institute can provide a lasting legacy of supporting disadvantaged communities in the West Midlands. The Foundation has been working with the charity, which was originally set-up in 1906, for several years ahead of the transfer, and trustees will remain involved as panel members for future grant making.

ANIMAL MAGIC Get ready to welcome Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe and Gloria the hippopotamus to Brum! They’ll be hitting the stage when the smash-hit family favourite Madagascar the Musical arrives at the Alexandra. Based on the DreamWorks animated motion picture – which sees the animals escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo Park Zoo to find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar – the brand new tour production will run from 14 to 17 March.

TURKISH DELIGHT

Istanbul here we come! Low-cost Pegasus Airlines has launched a three-times-aweek route between Birmingham Airport and Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen International Airport – with one-way fares from Brum starting at £39.99. Pegasus serves more than 130 destinations in 49 countries across Asia, Africa and Europe from its Turkish hub. Birmingham Airport CEO Nick Barton said: “I have no doubt these new services will be very popular with sunseekers, pilgrims, business travellers and people going to visit family.”

TOP DOGS IN TOWN Organisers have revealed more than 20,000 dogs will be taking part in Crufts 2024 at the NEC in March. The number will feature over 200 breeds in fast-paced and fun competitions including agility, heelwork to music, flyball and obedience. The four-day Kennel Club event, which runs from 7 to 10 March, culminates in the Best in Show competition which last year was won by Orca, the Lagotto Romagnolo, pictured. The show also sees more than 500 stands selling doggy delights.

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

january 2024

READING APPEAL A children’s literacy charity is looking for more volunteers who can help spread the joy of reading to children in primary schools in the West Midlands. One in four children leaves primary school unable to read to the expected standard1 says Schoolreaders which recruits volunteers to listen to children read one-to-one in primary schools, focusing on those where children require the most support.

The new appeal is targeting more help in areas, including Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Coventry and West Bromwich. More details at www.schoolreaders.org.

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COVER STORY

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COVER STORY

ROCK

READY TO – AND CUT THE CRAP The formidable Mrs Osbourne is heading to Birmingham

this month with an unapologetic show in which she’ll take

questions from the audience on any subject you care to fire at her. But probably best to wear a tin hat!

ast summer, Birmingham honoured one of its favourite sons, legendary rock star Ozzy Osbourne by naming the giant robotic bull from the Commonwealth Games after him.

Following a huge swell of public support, it was then moved to its permanent home in New Street station.

And wife Sharon – one of showbiz’s most outspoken women – was there for the official opening.

“I was overwhelmed” says Sharon “The bull is such a magnificent structure. It’s just amazing to think how many people that walk through New Street station every day will see Ozzy the bull. It’s such an incredible honor for Ozzy that the public voted to name it after him.”

It seems that all roads in Birmingham will eventually lead to an Osbourne. Alongside the bull and the Black Sabbath Bridge & Bench that was opened in 2019, there are now further plans to open a memorabilia museum in the city. “We’re preparing to sign for a building that will house the museum with an attached coffee shop,” explained Sharon.

“As soon as we do, we will announce the location and timeline for its launch. The museum is going to have memorabilia and multi-media from Ozzy’s career from the 1960’s to the present. Exhibits will include stage clothes, music gear, awards, vintage

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posters and photography, immersive video and audio displays as well as Ozzy’s personal artwork and so much more.”

OZZY GIVING BACK It’s not just the memorabilia that people can enjoy.

The Osbournes plan to provide facilities on site where local artists can perform and where fellow musicians will provide lessons to local kids who aren’t able to afford music classes. It’s a remarkable gesture to provide a platform that will give so much back to the city that Ozzy loves. But it’s obviously fast becoming a region that Sharon can’t get enough of too – as she’s back in town at the end of this month.

For one night she’ll be appearing at the Alexandra Birmingham with her show, Cut the Crap, where she’ll answer anything you could possibly want to know under the direction of journalist and TV’s Loose Woman, Jane Moore. Ever wanted to find out what makes Sharon Osbourne tick? Now’s your chance.

“This show is really about my life story,” says Sharon. “I’ve certainly lived a lot of life in my 71 years so there are a lot of stories to tell. Plenty of ups and downs, good luck and bad, too. It’s not all been wine and roses. I love hearing other people’s life stories.

But I’d never buy a novel, I only buy biographies. I

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COVER STORY

don’t like made-up stories. Mind you, I don’t think anyone could make up my story. My life has been like a Jackie Collins novel – or so I’m told.” Does she think she attracts drama? “Yes, I do. I think it may be because I’m a bit eccentric so it must follow me around. I’m a magnet for drama.”

SPEAKING HER MIND Is she a woman for regrets? “Sure. To have regrets is a part of life and growing. I often think ‘if I could only do that again’ but you can’t. So, all you can do is try to make sure you don’t do whatever it was another time. Not that I always succeed.” So, what does she regret professionally? “I’m someone who’s always said what’s on her mind. And then it’s gone. But other people won’t let it go. They don’t like confrontation and they don’t like it when I challenge a situation.”

Outspoken she may be but she’s also loving and loyal and hugely protective of husband Ozzy and their three children, Aimee, Kelly and Jack. Life is about to change with the Osbournes moving from Los Angeles back to their Buckinghamshire home. “It’s time to come home,” said Sharon. “I look at the years I’ve lived in LA as being permanently on holiday. But America is changing. It’s becoming more scary. I still feel very English. I’ve never felt American. More of Sharon Osbourne Cut the Crap at the Alexandra Birmingham on 24 January, visit: atgtickets.com

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my adult life has been spent there but I’ve never acquired an American accent. But I’m British and I want to come home.”

Will Buckinghamshire be their forever home or could the family ever be tempted to move to the Midlands and Birmingham specifically? “Never say never” said Sharon. “It’s now a cosmopolitan city; young, active and vibrant with so many great restaurants, all while still holding on to its sense of history. One thing I’ve learned is that you can never plan your future. We love Buckinghamshire, but Ozzy’s soul will always be in Birmingham.

FEELING THE LOVE She thinks it will help Ozzy to be UK-based. He was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2003, which went into overdrive following a fall five years ago. Such was the damage to his spine that he’s now undergone five major surgeries. “Once he gets home, and feels the love that’s here for him, that will be very healing,” said Sharon. “And the grandchildren can come and visit. It’s not like he’s never going to see them again!”

Ten years from now? “Well, I hope I’ll still be alive – and Ozzy, too. There are no outstanding goals, nothing left to prove. I’ve done it all. I’ve lived one helluva life. Now, I just want to spend important time with my husband.” But after a pause, Sharon admits: “I do like a mission, though. I’ve always got to be doing something...” You can say that again! I

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FEATURE

BEER, BRUM AND BROADCASTING

PRESENTER, NEWS ANCHOR, DOCUMENTARY MAKER AND BEER SOMMELIER, MARVERINE COLE TALKS ABOUT HER BELOVED HOME CITY AND HOW HER CAREER WAS A SLOW BURN

e’ve interviewed hundreds of Brummies who fiercely champion their home city. Marverine Cole might just be the biggest supporter of them all. “I’m Brummie through and through,” she states, before adding, “It’s a warm, beautiful, supportive city.” We couldn’t agree more.

Marverine’s story is one of ambition, tenacity and obvious talent. Most known for Sky News and GMB, her rise has been lengthy and began in her childhood living room. Marverine grew up in Birmingham with her mom and two brothers in a house where education and news were high on the agenda.

She recalls: “Mom loved keeping up with news. We had the Birmingham Evening Mail every night. She’d then leave it for me and my brothers to read. I read it cover to cover from the age of seven.” In addition to Eighties favourites such as the A-Team, there was always the unmissable evening news both local and national on the TV. She says: “I definitely got that love of news from my mom,” and adds, “I watched Sir Trevor MacDonald and Moira Stewart explaining big issues. They were black like me. Generally high-profile black people were sports people or entertainers, but not serious. I just thought it looked great.”

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JOURNALIST’S NOSE When Marverine’s brother went to university she was told by her mom, ‘you’ll be going too’. Despite being ‘very bookish’ and researching lots, Marverine couldn’t find any broadcast journalism courses. She began letter writing to the radio and TV stations in Birmingham and worked behind the scenes making tea, photocopying scripts, looking after guests and the like. She recalls: “Those nice letters got me inside studios. I didn’t have a plan – just a journalist’s nose.”

Marverine completed a Business Studies course at De Montfort and didn’t really know what she wanted to do. She started work as a trainee advertising executive but hated it. All through her twenties Marverine worked as a personal assistant to CEOs and MDs. She did temping jobs in financial services and banking and was PA to one of the directors at the university as well as bosses at Cadburys and the BBC. However, she says: “In the background I was always thinking ‘what about media’?”

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Marverine did some small bits of local commercial radio before applying to a Broadcast Journalism Graduate diploma. “It was a small course with 20-odd people and I was lucky enough to get a bursary funded

by ITV for a six-month fast track course.” Once Marverine started working in TV in earnest she found her earlier stint temping for MDs and CEOs was invaluable. She explains: “That experience of dealing with powerful people meant that I wasn’t intimidated interviewing politicians and others in power.”

In 2008, Marverine went from Midlands Today to Sky News where she was in the hot seat for hours on end, sometimes breaking news live on air. She says: “You’re looking at the news wires all the time when on air and the producer is in your ear saying, “have you seen this?”

You have to go with it on the hoof then update with more information as it comes in.” Reporting on upsetting world events such as terrorist attacks takes a unique skill. “Inside you might be thinking OMG, but you have to lock the emotion in a box, showing no personal opinion. I think it’s an innate ability.”

Marverine says that when she started out in the industry, it wasn’t what is now in terms of diversity.

“The catalyst for that change was the murder of George Floyd in 2020. It changed everything. Part of that is that I’ve been accepted to programmes I never thought I’d be able to do. GMB for instance – I would never have thought that would happen.”

Every week for 15 years Marverine has taken a suitcase to London for work and at times, she’s

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pondered moving to the capital. After conversations with her husband, they always settle on staying in Birmingham. She says: “As well as it being hugely expensive, we just wouldn’t want to leave Brum. We have our lovely house and cat in Kings Heath.”

BEER AFICIONADO An unlikely string to Marverine’s bow is becoming a beer sommelier. She says: “I discovered beer through journalism. Data suggested more women were getting into cask ale year-on-year. I was more of a red wine and champagne woman, but I thought I’d investigate.” Marverine did a TV feature for Inside Out during which she tried a peach ale that ‘blew her mind’.

She says: “Beer is not all bitter and flat brown ale. I wrote a blog and put on some beer tasting parties for women then found a beer sommelier course which sounded interesting.” Marverine now has a regular beer column in BBC Good Food magazine. She rates the local brewers doing great things in Birmingham, like Attic Brew and GlassHouse, and is a regular at independent bar and bottle shop Hop and Scotch in Kings Heath.

In addition to Birmingham’s talented brewers, Marverine just loves the city unreservedly. She says: “There are cranes and construction everywhere, but it doesn’t put me off. I will always love and support this city. I live in Kings Heath and I adore it – the shops, independent restaurants and the people.” I

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FOOD & DRINK

BISHAL RASAILY

As a child, the head chef at Dishoom Birmingham admits he was a fussy eater – until his aunt stepped in and sparked an interest which eventually led to him working with some of the greatest chefs of Indian cuisine

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CHEF’S CORNER

Tell us about your cooking My cooking style is simple food cooked from my heart, my mind and my memories. Understanding your ingredients is very important to be able to produce great taste and flavours. What excites me is keeping a traditional dish as your base and then mixing and matching the spices – underpinned with an understanding of what it does to the taste, flavour, and the body – until you get something interesting and playful that makes sense.

How did you become a chef?

I was a very fussy eater as a child, so my family – especially my aunt – would try different twists on my usual meals to try and encourage me to eat.

Because of her, I became fascinated and intrigued by the process of cooking, the ingredients used and the taste that was created – and I became more involved with cooking at home. This gave me an amazing opportunity to learn about eastern spices, herbs and recipes at an early age. After school and college, I undertook a diploma in hotel management which gave me opportunities to work in 5-star hotels in India where I learned from some of the greatest chefs of Indian cuisine.

What do you eat at home?

Something simple and fresh. Nowadays, I have to cook food from various cuisines to satisfy my eight-year-old son as he likes trying different cuisines. His favourites at the moment are Chinese and Korean.

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

I admire chefs like Alain Ducasse who operate dozens of restaurants without compromising on quality. Also, Pierre Koffmann and the Roux family for the love and passion they have for their craft.

However, in my personal experience the very best chef in the world is the legendary grand master chef of Indian cookery Imtiaz Qureshi (who I was lucky enough to work under). In Birmingham, I think Glynn Purnell and Luke Tipping are incredibly exciting chefs, and Dan Lee is most definitely one to watch.

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Share a cooking tip Nutritious and healthy food needs time both before and during cooking. For example, the soaking of rice and lentils is very important. The longer it takes time to grow in nature the more time it needs to do good for you. And using all your senses to taste and adjust your dish at every stage is important.

What was your favourite food as a kid?

Momo! A meat dumpling encased in flour pastry, steamed, and served with a light soup. This is a Tibetan influence in Nepali cuisine eaten with dale chilli (a type of chilli found in the Himalayan ranges near Nepal and Darjeeling) and served with roasted tomato chutney.

Food heaven and food hell?

Heaven is fresh home cooked food, especially vegetarian dishes, eaten with loved ones. Hell would be something overcooked and reheated, with no life (prana) left in it.

What’s the most unusual thing you’ve eaten?

Goat testicle. I absolutely would not recommend!

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

Maybe a schoolteacher in my hometown in Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Northeast India. Or, a painter – my portrait and abstract works won some awards when I was growing up. I Dishoom, One Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, B3 3AX. Tel: 0121 809 5986, dishoom.com

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SEASON’S EATINGS

PRAWN WINNER Here’s the perfect, warming and healthy dish for hungry January mouths e love prawns and sweet potato at Brum Towers and this awesome recipe for Chermoula Prawn Curry with Sweet Potato Chunks only takes 20 minutes to make, is heart-warming and healthy – in short, a perfect January dish. For a vegetarian or vegan alternative, just swap the prawns with your favourite protein alternative.

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INGREDIENTS - Serves two

I 300g sweet potatoes I 120g king prawns I 350g green beans I 30g flat leaf parsley I 1 tsp Chermoula spice blend* I 1 carton of finely chopped tomatoes I 2 garlic cloves, chopped garlic I 80g spinach I 1/2 vegetable stock pot *consists of: I 2 tbsp ground cumin I 1 tbsp. ground coriander I 1-1/2 tsp chili powder I 1-1/2 tsp sweet paprika I 1 tsp ground cinnamon I 3/4 tsp ground allspice I 3/4 tsp ground ginger I 1/2 tsp cayenne I 1/2 tsp turmeric

METHOD: First, peel and dice the sweet potatoes and place on a baking tray with a drizzle of oil, season with salt and pepper and then roast in the oven at 180 degrees for 30 minutes, turning halfway through. Next, chop the green beans and then fry them with a drizzle of oil and the Chermoula spice for two minutes. Add in the chopped tomatoes, garlic and stock. Simmer on a medium heat for three minutes. Add the prawns and spinach and cook for another four minutes.

Meanwhile, roughly chop the parsley.

Dish up the Chermoula prawns with the roasted sweet potato and sprinkle the parsley to serve!

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FOOD & DRINK

NIBBLES and SHORTS

OUR BARS, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS DELIVER UNRIVALLED FOOD, DRINK AND HOSPITALITY. HERE’S THE LATEST INSIDER NEWS FROM THE CITY’S EATERIES AND WATERING HOLES Punks has announced plans to expand into Birmingham. The UK-wide chain is known for award-winning sourdough pizzas BRUM’S Pizza that can be ‘pimped up’ with unlimited toppings for no extra cost. Brad Stevens, founder & CEO of Hell Yeah Hospitality Group, PIZZA said: “We are extremely excited about where Pizza Punks is at, both as a brand and a business, and the opportunities it has for PUNKS significant further growth.” The group has strengthened its senior team in readiness for its new plans.

NEW BOSS FOR HOTEL Hotel Indigo Coventry has appointed a new general manager ahead of its opening following the completion of a multi-million-pound project. Michael Lyons, who boasts 36 years’ experience in award-winning hotels, began his career as an assistant floor housekeeper at the Belfry Hotel. He has worked as director of operations for Kew Green Hotels and director of Europe Hotel Operations, UK & Ireland for IHG. Other senior past roles have included Holiday Inn, Birmingham and Crowne Plaza, London Heathrow.

WINTER WARMER

An historic manor house hotel has launched a new sustainable winter menu – the first of an array of green initiatives set to be unveiled for 2024. Billesley Manor Hotel and Spa, near Stratford-upon-Avon, has designed the menu to reflect sustainability in all its dishes, using the finest seasonal British ingredients that reflect the flavours of the region.

More than 40 per cent of the hotel’s main meals are now vegetarian or vegan, demonstrating its commitment to healthier, greener dining options.

WEDDING VENUE TITLE

Brockencote Hall Hotel has been named the best hotel wedding venue in the West Midlands for the second year running at the Wedding Industry Awards.

The hotel, at Kidderminster Road, Chaddesley Corbett will now represent the region in the UK national finals in London later this month. Staci Williams, wedding and events manager, said: “To win it twice in a row is such an incredible achievement.” The Victorian country manor house hotel is set in 70 acres of parkland and features Frenchinspired architecture.

LARGER LAND

Land, the independent fine dining restaurant named as one of the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the UK by the Michelin Guide 2023, is extending its premises. The extension will see the addition of a welcome area for guests, bar seating and lounge chairs, as well as a wine table where guests can stand and socialise. The restaurant will accommodate up to six more covers, and the kitchen will double in size. Land was founded by co-owners and head chefs Adrian Luck and Tony Cridland.

ECO-EATING DEAL

Venue and events catering leader Amadeus has launched a new eco-friendly partnership with Simply Lunch, a family-run food-to-go company with more than 40 years’ experience in creating and delivering in the casual eating category. The collaboration means customers at all Amadeus catered venues, including the NEC, ICC, Dudley Zoo and Cadbury World, A redeveloped Aparthotel providing high-quality can look forward to lunches that accommodation suitable for both corporate and leisure visitors not only tantalise the tastebuds has opened for bookings. Aparthotel Birmingham Snowhill is but also reflect a commitment to located on the 92,000 sq ft site of the Royal Angus Hotel which reducing environmental impact was acquired by SevenCapital in 2020. Switch Hospitality by choosing ingredients that are Management have overseen the hotel’s redevelopment and locally sourced, ethically will be responsible for managing its operations. A choice of produced and sustainably 10 accommodation types includes pet-friendly apartments, packaged.

APARTHOTEL OPENS

rooms with private terraces and interconnecting suites.

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COCKTAIL OF THE MONTH

GOODBYE JAN BLUES This indulgent little number from the mixologists at Sky Bar is the perfect new year pick-me-up fter all the excitement of Christmas feasts and New Year parties, January can feel like a bit of a downer for many.

This Tiramisu cocktail has been specially created by the mixologists from Sky Bar at Resorts World and is guaranteed to put a spring back in your step. As always, please enjoy responsibly.

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INGREDIENTS:

25ml Bacardi Carta Oro 25ml coffee (or a shot of espresso) 15ml Kahlua 15ml cocoa syrup 10ml sugar syrup (1:1 caster sugar and boiling water) 50g mascarpone

METHOD: Put all the ingredients in a shaker. Shake until chilled (30 seconds).

Double strain carefully into a coupe glass and garnish with a dust of cocoa powder and a lady finger biscuit.

Sky Bar & Restaurant, Resorts World Birmingham, Pendigo Way, Birmingham, B40 1PU. resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

ISAAC’S

28 Barwick Street, Birmingham, B3 2NT. Tel: 0121 827 9670, isaacsrestaurant.co.uk ince its opening we’ve considered Isaacs’s to be a hotel restaurant and it hasn’t been on our radar – our bad, as the kids might say. While there’s access from The Grand, there’s a separate entrance on Barwick Street and under the expert guidance of executive chef, Adam Bateman, Isasc’s stacks up as a restaurant in its own right.

The restaurant’s mantra, ‘inspired by New York, 100 per cent Brum’ is reflected in a menu packed with burgers, wings, hot dogs, mac and cheese and the like. However, a new menu that launched just before our visit revealed a lighter side too. We dabbled with both.

First up, a bowl of olives with zingy pickled fennel and a Cosmopolitan – a really nice start. Next, chicken wings with a blue cheese dip. For context, since Bonehead flung open its doors across town and started bossing wings, nothing compares. While the Isaac’s version was tasty and perfectly succulent with a nice hit of spice, they were playing second fiddle. A wingless wing i.e. cauliflower is available too.

Smashed avocado and salmon tostada was fresh and light benefitting from zesty lime juice, chilli and popping jewels of pomegranate, while a 10oz ribeye was perfectly pink on the inside, charred on the outside and seriously tasty. Truffle fries provided a moreish earthy crunch.

Then came a dish of fried chicken served atop a giant potato waffle with a fried duck egg and a

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delicious BBQ sauce. The fried chicken was top drawer with a crunchy flavour-packed coating encasing soft, moist meat – it played second fiddle to no one. The oozing duck egg added another dimension while the waffle which was a bit tough felt surplus to requirements. Aside from that, it was great dish.

If, like us, Isaac’s hasn’t been on your radar, it’s well worth a trip and might just become one of your new faves. I

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FOOD & DRINK

SIPPING INTO THE NEW YEAR

KATIE GARDNER OF BIRMINGHAM WINE SCHOOL TOASTS 2024 WITH SOME GREAT IDEAS TO MAKE YOUR DRINKING EXPERIENCES MORE VARIED, EXCITING – AND FUN

RESOLUTIONS FOR WINE LOVERS s the clock strikes midnight and the calendar flips to a new year, many of us embark on a journey of self-improvement and new experiences. For wine enthusiasts, the New Year presents a perfect opportunity to explore the vast world of wines and elevate our tasting adventures. Here are some resolutions tailored for wine lovers, promising a year filled with diverse flavours, expanded knowledge, sustainable sips and the joy of uncorking those special bottles.

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Resoluton No.1 – Discover a New Grape Every Month

The world of wine is a treasure trove of grape varieties, each with its unique flavour profile and characteristics.

It’s fair to say that we tend to stick to what we know when buying wine, so make it a resolution to expand your palate by trying a new grape variety every month. Yes, you might not like some of them, but you might just find your new favourite wine! Here are 12 ideas to get you started…

White grapes: Assyrtiko from Greece, Godello from Spain, Falanghina from Italy, Feteasca Regala from

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Romania, Torrontes from Argentina and Gruner Veltliner from Austria.

Red grapes: Mencia from Spain, Negroamaro from Italy, Tannat from Uruguay, Touriga Nacional from Portugal, Egri Bikaver from Hungary and Pais from Chile

Resolution No.2 – Uncork Local Delights and Visit a Nearby Winery

Sometimes, the best wines are just a short drive away.

Resolve to explore local wineries and tasting rooms to experience the craftsmanship of wines produced here in the UK. Our reputation for producing high-quality wines, particularly sparkling wines, is growing every year.

Many wineries offer tours and tastings, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. Some of our top picks within an hour’s drive of Brum are Welcombe Hills in Stratford-upon-Avon, Astley Vineyard in Stourport-on-Severn and Halfpenny Green between Bridgnorth and Wolverhampton.

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FOOD & DRINK

KATIE’S 4 TO TRY FOR A NEW YEAR Here’s my wine recommendations to help you keep those resolutions!

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The Best Assyrtiko (Greece) – £10 from Morrisons Morande Reserva One to One Pais (Chile) – £8.99 from Majestic Halfpenny Green Brut Sparkling 2021 (England) – £24.95 from Halfpenny Green Vineyards Zalze Reserve Fairtrade Cabernet Sauvignon (South Africa) – £9.50 from Co-Op

Resolution No.3 – Sip Sustainably: Embrace Wines from Eco-Friendly Producers

Resolution No.5 – Expand Your Knowledge With a WSET Course

In an era where sustainability is a global priority, wine enthusiasts can contribute by choosing bottles from ecofriendly producers. Some notable examples include the Torres family in Spain, who are aiming to be net zero by 2040 and Yealands estate in New Zealand, who have committed to planting more than one million native trees to improve water quality and biodiversity. South Africa in particular has been hit hard in recent years with drought and Covid restrictions, but a lot of producers support their workers through Fairtrade and sustainability initiatives.

By opting for wines with eco-friendly certifications, you not only enjoy quality wine but also support producers who are dedicated to preserving the environment and promoting ethical practices. This is often stated on the label, so give it a good read the next time you’re out shopping.

They say that knowledge is pleasure as well as power, and what could be more pleasurable than learning how to taste wine! The Wine & Spirit Education Trust courses (WSET) are a great way to fill in the gaps in your wine knowledge and learn how to better appreciate what you are drinking. You can either start with a one-day course for level 1 or take a threeday course for level 2, both are designed for beginners.

Resolution No.4 – Learn the Art of Food and Wine Pairing

Enhance your culinary experiences by mastering the art of wine pairing. Resolve to experiment with different combinations and discover the magic that occurs when the right wine meets the perfect dish. Whether it’s a robust Cabernet Sauvignon complementing a juicy steak or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc elevating a seafood dish, understanding the fundamentals of wine and food pairing can transform a meal into a sensory delight. There’s an app called Pocket Wine which is brilliant for food matches – or join us for one of our Birmingham Wine School wine dinners to find out more.

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Resolution No.6 – Open the Good Stuff: No Occasion Required

We’ve all been guilty of saving that special bottle for a momentous occasion that never seems to arrive. This year, resolve to break free from the habit of waiting for the perfect moment and instead, create those moments yourself. Open that fancy bottle of Claret or that wine you brought back from a memorable trip to Italy. Celebrate the small wins with the Champagne you’ve been saving for too long. Non-vintage Champagne should be drunk within 12 months of purchase and most of our houses are far from ideal for long term storge of wine. Life is too short to keep the good stuff tucked away in the cellar – so, let 2024 be the year you uncork and savour the joy in everyday life. I Birmingham Wine School is an independent wine education company that offers fun informal wine tasting events and Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) courses online, in Birmingham and Warwick. For more information contact Katie Gardner on 0121 270 7359 or visit www.birminghamwineschool.com.

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HEALTH

NEW YEAR MOTIVATION COME ON! GET UP AND GET AT IT! NOW IS THE TIME TO LAUNCH 2024 WITH THE BRAND NEW YOU

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HEALTH

o, you want to kick-start 2024 with a renewed commitment to get fitter and look and feel better. But these shorter days and dark evenings make it bloomin’ hard to motivate yourself to exercise. But help is on hand and top performance coach Arj Thiruchelvam has the answer to help keep you fit.

Arj has more than 18 years’ experience of performance mentoring, including as a UK Athletics sprints and jumps coach, and says now is a great time to mix up your training and set some specific goals. Here’s how:

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KEEP FOCUSED Grab your notepad and outline two things you would like to improve over the next two months, a perfect start to the New Year. These will comprise two-thirds of your exercise time and, by dedicating the majority of your time to them, means you will see a higher proportion of progress and improvement in your goals.

POWER OF THE INTERVAL Perhaps you’re looking to improve your aerobic performance, so it’s time to unlock the power of the interval! Alternating short bursts (about 30 seconds) of intense activity with longer intervals (about one to two minutes) of less intense activity goes handin-hand with a busy schedule. If you’re able to perform high intensity intervals for more than 30 minutes, the likelihood is that your intervals aren’t high intensity. This workout can be performed running, on the bike or the cross-trainer so really can be achieved anywhere and will keep you warm if you’re outside: Five minutes warm up + 10 x (1min 30secs slow + 30secs fast) + five-minute cool-down These paces are relative to your current level of fitness, with slowdown allowing you to start the recovery process while still moving. Walking is OK but as you get fitter you must challenge yourself to increase the speed. Fast pace is above 90 per cent of your maximum effort, so imagine you’re running away from a bull!

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It’s tough and gruelling but by including two of these sessions per week, you’ll notice cardiovascular improvements. Knowing in the back of your mind it’s not a really long workout will keep you moving forwards too!

PAIRED SUPERSET The concept of choosing two areas to focus on is pioneered by leading research which found by adopting this approach, muscle gains were rapidly increased in comparison to following more traditional approaches.

To apply this training method to our busier winter schedules, pick out just two exercises for the two body parts you want to improve and perform five sets of 10 repetitions of each of the exercises, utilising a paired superset (swapping body part without rest) to achieve more in a reduced time.

If you’re looking to gain more muscle, for example in your quadriceps and triceps, you will train these two muscles twice per week, while leaving any remaining time to do just enough to maintain other parts of your body. For example, 5 x 10 of (A) Step-Ups to Tricep Pushdown then afterwards 5 x 10 of (B) Squats to Tricep Extension.

HAVE FUN! Finally, don’t forget to enjoy exercise! Create gamebased or activity-based workouts and grab a training partner if you can. Maybe you don’t want to play a team sport but instead create a circuit of different exercises, some traditional and some a little more ballistic and ‘performance-like’; medicine ball throws, skipping, hopping and box jumps can actually be really rewarding, both mentally and physically.

These can essentially be like a circuit and, like any circuit, can be completed in a really short time.

Think 20 seconds on 20 seconds off each exercise or activity. One very important tip is to ensure you warm up before starting. Box jumps, hopping and ballistic exercises are surprisingly tough and therefore you want to avoid doing them when cold.

Here’s a pro-tip: put the toughest exercises at the start of your circuit. I

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HEALTH

COMMIT TO FIT LAURA ESPIE, PERSONAL TRAINER AT EDGBASTON PRIORY CLUB, OFFERS SOME TOP TIPS TO HELP YOU FEEL YOUR BEST SELF FOR SPRING

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HEALTH

ew Year is the time many of us commit to healthier habits, but far too often the best of intentions fall by the wayside by the middle of January, says Laura. Here’s her top seven tips to keep up the good work…

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Ease yourself in Set yourself small, achievable, manageable milestones. Start by simply getting your steps in by swapping the car, bus or train for your feet! Try a couple of workouts a week and then slowly increase the intensity. If you’re not sure where to start, book yourself in with a personal trainer who will help you plan a programme to help you achieve your goals.

Enjoy yourself Try a variety of activities to discover what you enjoy. Whether it's Zumba, yoga, weight training or playing sport, the key is to make fitness a pleasurable part of your daily routine. If you enjoy what you're doing, you’re more likely to stick to it.

Mix it up A well-rounded fitness programme should include both cardio and strength training. Cardiovascular exercises boost your heart health, while strength training helps build lean muscle mass – a good mix of both will deliver maximum benefits.

Fuel Your Body Fuel your body with a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy carbohydrates such as whole grains. Drink at least two litres of water a day – staying hydrated is essential for overall health - and include protein in every meal as it will help keep you fuller for longer and repair muscles.

Be consistent Consistency is key to seeing results. Establish a regular workout habit, even if it's moderate, and by spring you will see positive changes in your overall physical and mental well-being.

Buddy up Find yourself a workout buddy – whether it’s friends, family or an online fitness community. Sharing your fitness journey with others provides encouragement and makes the whole experience more enjoyable.

Edgbaston Priory Club, Sir Harrys Road, Birmingham, B15 2UZ Tel: 0121 440 2492 edgbastonpriory.com

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Sleep...

A good night’s sleep is crucial for recovery and overall well-being. Aim for seven or more hours of sleep a night to support your fitness efforts. As you embark on your fitness journey in the new year, embrace the process, be patient with yourself and focus on how your body feels not the way it looks. Celebrate the positive changes you're making for a healthier and fitter you for the spring. I

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STYLE AND SUBSTANCE

Clothing from Pretty Little Thing

KIT MATTERS

IF YOU’RE INTENT ON MOVING MORE THIS YEAR, ENSURE YOU HAVE DECENT SPORTSWEAR THAT’LL MAKE YOU WANT TO GET UP AND GO

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STYLE

LAYER UP

Cashmere hoodie £299, Emslie Creative

HALF ZIP

Everyday leisure embroidered half zip £22, Very

here’s a bamboozling array of sports kit on the market across a range of price points. Whether you’re committing to a daily stroll or an intensive training plan, kit matters. Make a list of what you’re planning to do and where you’re planning to do it before you start shopping – if you’re exercising outside, clearly your needs are different to the comfort of a yoga studio.

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IF THE SHOE FITS Sort out appropriate footwear first and accept this’ll be the most expensive item in your kit bag. Save money on the more frivolous items but don’t scrimp on the essentials like trainers else you’ll risk injury which will truly ruin your efforts. Research what’s appropriate for your preferred activity and consider getting your gait tested. The Nike Invincible pictured is designed for running with maximum cushioning while a netball or tennis trainer might have more support for the ankle. Do your homework.

DAMAGE LIMITATION High impact exercise requires a sports bra even if you’ve a small bust. While it’s partly about comfort and aesthetics, it’s mainly about preventing irreversible damage which we should all care about. To a certain extent, you get what you pay for – Shock Absorber, Sweaty Betty and Lululemon are great. The quality of

SOLE FULL

Nike Invincible 3 £174.95, Nike

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STYLE

GOOD TO GO

Clothing from F&F

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STYLE

all three brands means the price tag feels reasonable, but if you’re looking for a Lululemon bargain, check out the regular ‘We Made Too Much’ tab on their website for some great deals.

Smaller sizes can probably get away with cheaper versions that are less structured – even the supermarkets are in on the action. Check out F&F, TU Clothing and M&S for some decent examples at a reasonable price. As with all female fashion, sizes vary wildly, so try a few before you decide. It should feel snug but not uncomfortably tight, the fabric shouldn’t pucker, and the back band should stay put. Be picky.

WEATHER PROOF A waterproof wind proof jacket is your friend if you’re planning to exercise outside now. Check out the Rains range of waterproof breathable jackets that will keep you dry as a bone. If you’re walking, go for a longline version like the one pictured. For more strenuous exercise check out a shorter version that won’t flap around your legs.

Wear with thin layers on a cold day. A non-bulky waterproof jacket teamed with thin layers underneath will offer maximum warmth and versatility.

The rest of your kit can be more frivolous. Sweat wicking breathable fabric is preferable and is fairly standard even in the cheaper ranges. Choose stylish colours and prints that make exercising a bit more enticing ensuring you’ll stick to your feel good plans. I

PASTEL POWER

Sweaty Betty soft sculpt leggings £78, John Lewis

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BOLD PRINT

Printed leggings £29, TK Maxx

NO SWEAT

Sand Nature Walks embroidered sweat shorts £15, Pretty Little Thing

IN THE BAG

Sweaty Betty Icon gym bag £95, John Lewis

ANYONE FOR TENNIS

Babolat SFX3 tennis shoe £95, Babolat

TERRIFIC TEE

T-shirt from Very

BIG SHOP

Leggings £12, F&F

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STYLE

FULL CUP

Everymove wired sports bra £46, Curvy Kate

SUPPORTING ACT

Sports bra from Curvy Kate

ABRACADABRA

Shock Absorber Ultimate Run £50, John Lewis

WORK OF ART

Fancy floral yoga top £30, Joe Browns

ONE PIECE

Dark blue acid wash gym unitard £24, Pretty Little Thing

ANY WEATHER

Rains high neck regular fit shell jacket £95, Selfridges

ALL IN ONE

Skims slim fit ribbed stretch cotton playsuit £78, Selfridges

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STYLE

TOP LEGGINGS

Clothing from Lola Starr

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BEAUTY

BEAUTY NEWS HAPPY NEW YEAR! WE’VE PICKED A HANDFUL OF PRODUCTS THAT’LL

COUNTER THE LATE NIGHTS OF THE FESTIVE SEASON AND HAVE YOU GLOWING AGAIN. HERE’S TO A HAPPY AND HEALTHY 2024!

1. ECO WARRIOR COLOUR EDIT BLUE SHAMPOO BAR £6.50, LITTLESOAPCOMPANY.CO.UK

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Kind to your hair and the planet, the shampoo bar has a high concentration of blue pigments to neutralise orange and brassy tones as well as squalene to boost shine and prevent damage, shea butter for added moisture, panthenol to strengthen and bergamot and lime essential oils for a gorgeous fragrance. If you’re looking to make the switch from a liquid to a bar, this is a goodie.

2. SISLEY X KISANY COSMETICS POUCH, GIFTED WITH A PURCHASE OF £250, KISANY.COM AND SISLEY.COM For a decade, the Sisley Foundation has supported Kisany, an organisation that uses embroidery to help African women who are excluded from society in DRC and Rwanda to rebuild their lives through sewing. The stunning cosmetic pouch is inspired by the embroidery of Isabelle d’Ornano and is hand sewn by the women that Kisany helps. Perfect for housing your favourite beauty bits and worth spending a bit extra to receive as a gift from Sisley.

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3. KATHERINE DANIELS ANTI-FATIGUE MASK £40, KATHERINEDANIELSCOSMETICS.COM We’ve never needed this more. The excesses of Christmas have taken their toll and fatigued skin is a perfect description of our current situation. Packed with all the good stuff, this mask manages to inject a youthful glow in just two minutes. It instantly boosts circulation and intercellular energy for a brighter firmer complexion.

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STYLE FOR MEN

STAY COOL Clothing from Primark

HIGH IMPACT

IF YOU FANCY YOUR FITNESS CHANCES FOR 2024, WE RECOMMEND GETTING THE RIGHT CLOBBER TO BOOST YOUR SUCCESS RATE

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STYLE FOR MEN

IN THE NAVY Quest hooded jacket £110, North Face

GREAT SUPPORT Clifton 9 sneaker £147, Hoka

JOG ON Trn jogger £42.99, Adidas

ALL ABOUT THE BASE Helly Hansen Lifa Merin 2-in-1base layer £85, John Lewis

ood for mind, body and soul, moving more at whatever level is beneficial – and wearing clothes that are practical and stylish will make it all a little bit easier. Work out what you need – are you exercising indoor or outdoor? High or low impact? Do your research and start with suitable footwear for your chosen exercise to avoid injury. If you’re exercising outdoors bag some base layers and a waterproof jacket to keep you toasty and don’t overlook gloves and great socks. Yes socks. They’re more important than you might think. Whether you’re playing tennis, running or even walking, ill-fitting socks are distracting as well as potentially painful. Go for soft antiblister socks and while you don’t need to spend a fortune but don’t scrimp either. I

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BE SEEN Hi-viz short £27.99, New Balance

RUN CLUB Phantom 3 SE Storm shoe £135, Under Armour

SOCKS AWAY Trail Ultralight T2 Coolmax sport ¾ crew socks £16.99, Socksnob.co.uk

DESIGNER COLLAB Christian Lacroix x Regatta Bonnieux gilet £135, Regatta

FAB FLEECE International tech fleece £149, Barbour CROSS TRAINER Charged Commit 3 cross trainers £71, John Lewis

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TOP OF THE CROPS Red cropped sports gilet £32, F&F

FITS LIKE A… Storm Liner gloves £23, Under Armour

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HOTTING UP

SAY GOODBYE TO CLINICAL BATHROOMS AND HELLO TO CHARACTER, TEXTURE AND WARMTH

NATURAL STONE Accessories from Christy

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HOMES

FEATURE WALL Fixtures by Geberit

he design of your home needn’t end at the threshold to your bathroom – there’s no need to leave your personality at the door and accept a clinical space. The once standard sleek white room with chrome taps has fallen out of favour and we’re all about colour, lighting, texture and character.

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TERRIFIC TILES Bathroom by Ripples

NO AVOCADO We’re not in avocado suite territory – indeed there are largely white suites in these pages, but the point is, the bathroom has masses of design potential and has gone beyond purely functional.

A freestanding bath adds a pop of personality and luxury as does a rich fabric. If you’ve space, think about a chaise longue in a bold print for ultimate spa vibes or a sumptuous Roman blind which immediately softens and warms the space.

THINK TACTILE If you like a neutral palette, look at including natural materials like wood, stone and marble which offer interest and texture without taking you out of your comfort zone. Wooden wall slat panels are a stylish and easy neutral option.

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HOMES

If one dominant colour is too much for you, consider painting one wall which can look striking.

Also consider terrazzo tiles or novel grouting as an easy way of incorporating colour that won’t overwhelm.

Insert some greenery into the bathroom which will have a calming effect as well as looking fantastic – ferns and orchids will flourish. If you’re limited on space, go up rather than out and hang a fern or three from the ceiling.

RIGHT LIGHTS Beautiful lighting makes a big difference. Take a look at some of the gorgeous fittings on the market and always check whether they’re bathroom

compatible. Depending on the position of light fittings in relation to water, some pendant styles aren’t safe in a bathroom. Layer the lighting so your room becomes a versatile space. Consider a statement mirror with soft lighting for those times when you just want to relax in the tub.

Add some interesting accessories and artwork that’ll make you smile. See page 46 for some inspiration. And remember, there are no style rules – make your bathroom suit the rest of your home. Stamp your personality on it unashamedly and enjoy. I RIGHT STRIPES Shower curtain from Nest

TRADITIONAL CHARM Lighting by Fritz Fryer

HOME SPA Bathroom by Scavolini

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HOMES

GO GREEN Accessories from B&M

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HOMES

NO WALL FLOWER Wool runner £175, Oliver Bonas

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HOMES

SOFT LIGHTING Stockholm LED illuminated mirror £214.99, Glamour

GREAT WALL Bathroom by Kuche and Bagno

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HOMES

MIRROR MIRROR Woood Romee organic mirror £169, Cuckooland

GREEN DREAM Ferm Living Arcs wall sconce £225, kin

FINISHING TOUCHES

MORE IS MORE Accessories from TK Maxx HOOKED Ferm Living Curvature double hook £45, kin

POLISH YOUR BATHROOM WITH SOME GORGEOUS WALLCOVERINGS AND ACCESSORIES TO CREATE A STUNNING SPACE NO ORDINARY STORAGE Vitra Rotary tray £49, Nest

WORK OF ART Ribbed glass flush fitting Grafton Globe bathroom light £775, Fritz Fryer

HORTICULTURAL PRINT Hornbeam wall covering £120 per roll, Farrow and Ball

SMOKIN’ Tone mirror £259, BoConcept

WARM GLOW Ashes of Roses paint from £29 per litre, Little Greene

CUTE CORAL Bali sculpture £85, BoConcept

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GARDENING

From the Potting Bench with Adam WANT TO HAVE THE BEST GARDEN AROUND THIS YEAR? RESIDENT GREEN-FINGERED EXPERT ADAM KIRTLAND REVEALS THE HOTTEST OUTDOOR TRENDS FOR 2024 n January last year, I aimed to see if I could try and forecast what the biggest trends would be for gardening and growing in 2023 and... was not far off! Vastly different from being the Nostradamus of the flower world and I certainly can’t guarantee that the future of gardening is all in my brain, but I do hear from lots of you every month and other gardeners about what they’re loving. Using all those secrets, I’m again trying to anticipate what’s going be in for 2024 and what you might want to do with your gardens. So, let’s dive in!

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Again, and again and again!

Far from being a new thing, I believe that perennials will be a huge consideration again for most gardeners this year. For those that are not familiar with the term perennial, essentially these are plants that will give you years of pleasure, growing, blooming, and dying back each year, before coming back often bigger and better year after year. We have all been growing perennials for years, whether you knew the word before now or not – but what is so special about them right now?

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There are two reasons for this: long term gain and naturalistic style. Although they can potentially be more expensive initially, in the long run perennials will provide years of enjoyment and pay for themselves over time.

Groovy for gravel Sustainable gardening is a constantly emerging trend in gardening, but rather than this now being just a ‘trend’, gardeners need to seriously consider how they garden and how the changing environment continues to impact on what they do. Right now, we’re all rather chilly in the middle of winter and before long it’ll be the height of summer and the temperatures will likely be higher than ever before.

Gravel gardens are the way forward for a lot of gardeners, as they use much less water than conventional or traditional gardens and they can be just as beautiful too. Think about wafty grasses, beautiful Mediterranean style planting and so much else to offer – these are far more than a flat expanse of tiny pebbles!

Dark or bold… or both?

In the horticultural world, the upcoming year is poised to witness a shift towards the mysterious allure of dark colours. A trend is emerging that embraces the rich and velvety hues of deep purples, blacks and midnight blues in plant selections, and I

january 2024

find myself increasingly drawn to the drama and sophistication that these darker tones bring to outdoor spaces. Not only do these shades create a striking visual impact, but they also serve as a great backdrop, helping to accentuate the vibrant greens and brighter colours that we have come to expect from plants and flowers.

My own choices with spring bulbs have been darker than previous years and the subtle beauty of tulips such as Queen Of The Night and Black Hero are a remarkable sight, and when paired with lighter colours they both help to accentuate each other.

Do you see these happening in 2024?

Well what a year our gardens could have in 2024!

Let’s create superb gravel gardens full of beautiful dark perennials which are a haven for not just us and our family but for wildlife and insects too. When we look forward to what might happen across a new gardening year, it is always exciting to think that so many new trends, ways of doing things and beautiful plants will be grown all the way across Birmingham and beyond. Here’s to 2024 and some spectacular gardens! I You can follow Adam on Instagram @viewfromthepottingbench or listen to his Tales From The Potting Bench podcast for more gardening inspiration. You can also read Adam’s blog at viewfromthepottingbench.com

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MOTORING

DOLPHIN MAKES A SPLASH SUE COOKE TAKES THE PLUNGE AND LOOKS AT A NEW

HATCHBACK FROM CHINESE MANUFACTURING GIANT BYD THAT MAKES HALF OF THE WORLD’S APPLE iPADS

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t’s a New Year and a time to say goodbye to the old and embrace changes. A perfect time for a new car manufacturer to launch a new hatchback in the UK. BYD Auto Co Ltd is the automotive subsidiary of the publicly-listed Chinese multinational manufacturing company.

It may be a company which you have not heard of, but it launched the first plug-in hybrid vehicle back in 2008 and is producing all-electric cars. BYD also makes power batteries and electronics and half the world’s Apple iPads.

The BYD Dolphin is the first model in the ‘Ocean’ series and deliveries to customers started at the end of 2023. The hatchback’s rounded profile and side silhouette are said to have been designed to resemble the graceful lines of a leaping dolphin and in the interior, the fin-like door opener is much easier to use than a traditional item.

I

SCREEN STAR For this New Year, the BYD Dolphin has many innovations as well as driver technology features.

An abundance of standard equipment includes a horizontal 12-inch screen in the centre of the dash.

At the touch of a button the screen moves to

FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: BYD Dolphin hatchback all-electric

Power: 60.4 kWh new LFP Blade Battery with a 265-mile range (WLTP) Performance: 0-62mph in 7 seconds and on to a top speed of 99mph Charging time: WLTP 29 minutes fast charge CO2 emissions: Zero Price: From £26,195 otr

portrait which gives much more detail when using the sat-nav feature.

There are four trim levels – Active, Boost, Comfort and Design (simple, ABCD), with ergonomicallydesigned sports seats and headrests made from vegan leather. The heated front seats have a six-way electric adjustment for the driver and a four-way electric adjustment for the front passenger. The rear seats provide generous legroom for passengers. There are lots of storage spaces in the cabin and the 345-litre boot extends to 1,310 litres with rear seats folded.

This city car is available with a highly efficient 60.4 kWh new LFP Blade Battery with a 265-mile range and at the start of this year, there will also be a 44.9 kWh LFP Blade Battery with an estimated range of 211 miles for Active and 193 miles for Boost. The unique Blade Battery uses Lithium Iron Phosphate and is an unusual shape. Single cells are inserted into a battery pack like a blade.

BLADE RUNNER The company says while being ultra safe and durable, the Blade battery delivers high power density with the benefit of ultra-low energy consumption.

The four driving modes include Sport, Normal, Economy, and Snow to suit different driving conditions and preferences. For the winter months, an integrated heat pump, which is standard, increases thermal efficiency by up to 15 per cent.

In the UK, the company expects that a popular exterior colour will be ski white with urban grey duo tone and black Interior. But there is a new exterior colour, which I like the look of, Rose Quartz pink!

Pricing is very reasonable for an electric car, starting at £26,195 on-the-road with the top of the range at £31,695. PCP financing asks for a 10 per cent deposit, with 49 months at around £299 per month, which includes a free Shell recharge offer. The Dolphin is covered by a six-year (93,750-mile) warranty, while the Blade Battery has an eight-year (25,000-mile) warranty. I

SHOWROOM

Stratstone BYD Birmingham, 149-159 High Street, Digbeth, Birmingham, B12 0JU. Tel: 0121 7569945 www.stratstone.com/dealers/byd-birmingham/

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

TALENT POOL OUR REGULAR FEATURE IS A LITTLE DIFFERENT THIS MONTH IN THAT IT’S NOT ONE YOUNG PERSON, IT’S SIX! ast year, the Young Curators programme at Balsall Heath’s Moseley Road Baths charged six young creatives with making new digital work inspired by the much-loved Grade II listed Edwardian baths.

Over a six-month period from May to November, the youngsters put together a podcast called Bathcasts. From conceptualising the idea, engaging with the space and the community to commissioning artists and producing a final product, the creatives owned the project which is available to listen to until the middle of January.

The six young curators are a wonderfully eclectic mix of talent, background and interests and are all Birmingham-based, some born and bred. They include Sadie who’s from South London originally and describes herself as a general do-er of bits ’n’

L

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bobs, particularly in the realms of music, broadcasting and silly art.

Then there’s Malikah who is currently a speech and language therapy student and enjoys sports.

Amira has just finished college and looks forward to doing something other than studying while Nicole works for a charity supporting refugees in the city and loves languages and painting. Habib is an Arabic teacher and service designer who loves languages, the gym and drawing and Jessica, a neurodiverse and queer practitioner focusing on performance and event design and photography.

TUB TALK Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and part of the Moseley Road Baths Diving In Project, Bathcasts is hosted by comedian Rachel

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encourages you to listen to it in the bath at home, immersing yourself in water at the same times as our interviewees.”

DEEP BREATHS We listened to the Adam Wynn episode in preparation for this article and hadn’t expected it to kick off with guided meditation from Adjei Sun. We can confirm we haven’t breathed deeply or dropped our shoulders for roughly a decade. Bloomin’ lovely.

Rachel Baker was a great choice for a host – she’s natural and curious – plus there was poetry by Erin Gilbey and music from Aayushi Jain.

It’s a gentle, thoughtful listen that contrasts so much with the madness of social media and the horror of the current news cycle. It’s a bit of escapism – a pocket of loveliness that the six curators should be proud of. Bravo! I

Baker who was one of our Young, Gifted and Brummie subjects last year. The podcast interviewees are people connected to the historic baths who chat about their lives and the community building. Each interview takes place in one of the Moseley Road Baths bathtubs.

It’s an intriguing idea and you can hear the splishsploshing in the podcast, but it works. As well as the interviews, the Young Curators commissioned original poetry and music for each episode from 10 local artists. Interviewees include Adam Wynn, Malikah and Shazia, Sadim Garvey, Ayan Aden and Fabio Henriques, all people with a connection to Moseley Road Baths.

Gaby Songui, creative producer for the Young Curators Programme, said: “Telling their own stories has been key to the Young Curators programme, with each of the curators considering their experiences in Balsall Heath, as creatives, at Moseley Road Baths and it’s been brilliant seeing this result in an innovative series of podcasts. The podcast

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BATH TIME The podcasts are available until mid-January and can be found on Spotify: https://rb.gy/urqvz0 Find out more about the Young Curators programme at: https://moseleyroadbaths.org.uk/youngcurators/

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GROWING PLACES

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TEAM GAMBIA

OPERATION APPRENTICE Ten recruits have taken their first steps on the construction career ladder after securing apprenticeships with energy and regeneration specialist Equans. They beat off competition from more than 1,000 applicants to win the apprenticeships, which will enable them to gain qualifications in plumbing, electrical engineering or carpentry. The new recruits will work alongside Equans’s experienced teams and mentors and study at South and

Students from Solihull Sixth Form College have returned from a trip to the Gambia, having raised more than £13,500 for a school in the West African country. It was the eighth occasion that the College has taken learners out to the country and more than £73,500 has been raised in that time. A group of 25 students joined the College’s Team Gambia project last February and since then have been fund-raising for the Abuko Nursery and Lower Basic School, near Serrakunda. The trip allowed them to see how the money they raised is being used.

SCHOOL REPORT

City College. Equans works with Birmingham City Council to provide repairs and maintenance service to 40,000 council homes across the city.

FOOD FUND-RAISER A Handsworth mum took on a 25km charity challenge to help raise £9,500 to send her three-year-old tube-fed son to ‘eating school’ in Austria. Zion TurnerGeohaghon was born 13 weeks premature and suffers from Short Gut Syndrome. Mum Shanell Smith, who works as an agency nurse and as a cabin crew member for the airline TUI, took part in the Tree of Hope children’s charity 25K Challenge. Shanell plans to take Zion to the NoTube EAT campus in Graz where he can be helped to learn to eat through ‘play picnics’ and individual and group therapy.

STAR STUDENT

The coveted accolade of Student of the Year at the Midlands Media Students’ Awards went to Nicholas Gascoyne from Leicester’s De Montfort University (DMU). Nicholas submitted work completed during his last year at DMU, where he gained a first-class degree in journalism and politics. The awards, sponsored

by Amazon UK Services and organised by Birmingham Press Club, were hosted

by ITV Central journalist Lewis Warner and BBC Asian Network presenter Amber Sandhu – both former students at universities in the Midlands.

WINNER: Nicholas with Press Club president Bob Warman

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GROWING PLACES

SUPPORTING SRI LANKA Solihull Preparatory School’s charity week raised more than £10,000 to help children from some of Sri Lanka’s poorest families. The annual fund-raising event saw pupils and staff take part in five days of fun activities, including a staff dodgeball match, book sale, movie afternoon, talent show and non-uniform day. A tuckshop takeover saw J4 pupils set up in the Warwick Road campus refectory to sell treats to senior school pupils. Money raised will go towards a paediatric wing off the coast of Jaffna.

DRIVING SUCCESS Students from Cockshut Hill School took part in a Computer Science STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) Day with the Smallpeice Trust and Amazon Web Services and were set the challenge to build an autonomous vehicle. The Cockshut Hill team got to build their own driverless vehicle using Lego Mindstorms – and two Year 9 girls, Hanfa and Emily, won first prize for being able to get their robots to navigate a complicated track. Smallpeice Trust is an educational charity that inspires young people to pursue careers in science and engineering through events and workshops.

TEACHERS THEATRE

Birmingham Hippodrome has launched a new programme for teachers and educators in the West Midlands to bring the power of theatre to young people. Teachers in the scheme will see live performances at the Hippodrome, experience festivals produced by the theatre and engage in talks, events and networking opportunities to meet and connect with other educators, artists and creatives.

Zayle-Dawn Wilson, the Hippodrome’s head of creative partnerships, said: Our vision is to support the education sector by inspiring teachers, to in turn support and inspire their young people.”

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BUSINESS

ROYAL RACHAEL Birmingham Royal Ballet has appointed Rachael Magson as its new director of development. Rachael, who has held a number of strategic and fund-raising roles within arts and cultural organisations for the last decade, was the sole fund-raiser on the Cultural Programme of the Commonwealth Games, raising more than £12million for the Birmingham 2022 Festival. Other roles have included senior programme manager (fund-raising) for the National Trust, head of fund-raising, Birmingham Hippodrome and executive director at Pentabus.

BUSINESS

DAN’S THE MAN Mills & Reeve has appointed a principal associate in its Birmingham law office to support the firm’s health and social care mergers and acquisitions practice.

Dan Braithwaite has a wealth of experience in adult residential care, children’s care and education, fostering services, learning disability services, social housing, mental health and fertility services and life sciences. He was a key part of Pinsent Mason’s healthcare offering for more than 11 years and also worked at Craegmoor and the Priory Group.

NEWS

Picture by Phil Hitchman

FAST 50 CHAMPS Warwick Acoustics picked up three awards at the Deloitte Technology Fast 50 ceremony held at London’s

CLEAN AIR BID

based company designs, engineers

A region-wide plan to improve air quality

and manufactures revolutionary

has been launched by West Midlands

speaker systems for use in premium

Combined Authority. The £1million project

automotive products. It was named

will include a network of air quality sensors, education and awareness campaigns, an alert system when pollution levels are high, and research into the potential to positively impact air quality through speed limit reductions on high-speed roads. A petition calling for action on air quality was recently handed to West Midlands mayor and WMCA chair, Andy Street by representatives from Asthma + Lung UK, pictured.

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Royal Lancaster Hotel. The MIRA-

the ‘24th Fastest Growing Company in UK Technology’, ‘5th Fastest CleanTech Business’ and ‘Fastest Growing Company in the Midlands’. CEO Mike Grant, pictured right, said: “These awards are recognition for the work of our world class team as they push the boundaries of automotive and headphone audio technology.”

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BUSINESS

LIFEGUARD WINNERS A team of lifeguards from Birmingham Community Leisure Trust (BCLT) won a top national competition, beating entries from across the UK. BCLT, which operates nine centres across the city in partnership with Serco Leisure and on behalf of Birmingham

A Warwickshire-based customer rewards business, which recently closed a multi-million-dollar funding round, has expanded into bigger offices. Endurance Zone works with a variety of organisations in the

City Council, won the Serco Leisure Lifeguard Competition at Stoke Mandeville Stadium. The fivestrong team comprised captain, Michael Ryan, Kim Ash, and Marta Hulin (all of Stetchford Leisure Centre), and Tom Brandon and Jacob Cope (both of Cocks Moors Woods Leisure Centre).

BIGGER REWARDS sports, fitness, and health sector – from household names such as British Cycling, Fitness First and Great Run Company through to US giants such as the events operator Active Network. The company offers a tailored platform to clients to provide a host of rewards to customers, including discounts on everything from fitness watches to sportswear.

RSC ROLES

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Educational testing service A-Team Academy is top of the class after being named Business of the Year by the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce. The educational specialists scooped the coveted award at the National Conference Centre, Solihull after winning the Outstanding Small Business of the Year category.

A-Team Academy embarked on an ambitious £40,000 plus investment programme in 2022-23 with the launch of an innovative learning centre in

The Royal Shakespeare Company has appointed Vicky Cheetham and Sandeep Mahal as interim co-executive directors. The move comes after Catherine Mallyon stepped down as executive director after 11 years. Vicky joined the RSC in January 2023 as executive advisor having held previous roles include managing director of Tate, with responsibility for business management, innovation, enterprise and governance. Sandeep joined the RSC’s senior leadership team as leadership associate (executive) in 2022.

LUXURY LAUNCH

Handsworth. The President’s Award went to TV and radio presenter Noreen Khan.

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A new luxury automotive coachbuilding company has been launched. Allesley, based in Coventry, aims to “bring to life the most exclusive cars, distinguished by exquisite design and unparalleled quality”. CEO Paul Abercrombie, said: “We’re taking the art of coachbuilding to new heights by commissioning the world’s finest cars and raising the bar for design and craftsmanship. We are passionate about pushing the boundaries of innovation while preserving the traditional methods of our craft.” The first client commission, an ultra-luxury SUV, will be revealed this year.

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BUSINESS

LEGAL MOVE BUSINESS BITES Birmingham-based social purpose law firm, Anthony Collins Solicitors, has appointed Julia Robertson as its new head of charging and partner within the property team. Julia has more than 13 years of experience in real estate finance and has worked with many high-profile housing associations as well as national and challenger banks. This new appointment comes in the firm’s 50th anniversary year and after becoming the first Midlands firm to gain B Corp accreditation.

BIOTECH BREAKTHROUGH A female-led biotech firm which has developed a sustainable material designed to revolutionise the production of medical devices, won a competition hosted by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce. SymbioTex, led by founder and CEO Olivia Simpson, pictured, came out on top in the Women Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition organised in partnership with NatWest and British Business Bank. SymbioTex uses sustainably cultivated seaweed to produce home compostable filaments and pellets for the creation of cosmetic pots and medical devices such as inhalers.

TOP BILLING

A utility billing service has had an unprecedented first two years thanks to the creation of new software which is making it easier and quicker for utility transactions to take place in the student housing marketplace. Birminghambased Student Energy Group has announced revenue of more than £20 million – a 450 per cent increase on its first year – and has tripled its team to meet the demand for its services to 7,500 student households. The software allows an individual rather than a household to take on a utilities package contract.

ABUSE CENTRE

A centre offering early help and support to women and children affected by domestic abuse gave advice to nearly 1,000 victims in its first three months after opening. The Theresa Stewart Women’s Centre, was officially opened by Birmingham City Council leader, Cllr John Cotton and family members of former council leader and lord mayor, Theresa Stewart.

MIKE’S MEMORY

Family members, friends and colleagues of Mike Kirkman, Aston University’s former director of sport, security and nursery services, gathered for a special event to commemorate his contribution to the university and to dedicate a plaque in his memory. The plaque was unveiled by vice-chancellor and chief executive Prof Aleks at the Sir Doug Ellis Woodcock Sports Centre.

OPENING TIME

Luxury watch and jewellery retailer Goldsmiths re-opened its Bullring and Grand Central showroom following substantial refurbishment and expansion. The showroom now spans two floors and features a dedicated entrance for the new Rolex area.

SANCTUARY BOOST

A Midlands law firm has donated £1,000 to a local charity which cares for and re-homes animals. mfg Solicitors made the donation to Kings Norton-based Wythall Animal Sanctuary. The Sanctuary is the appointed charity of the firm’s Bromsgrove office as voted for by the staff. Sharon Lerry, senior associate and head of mfg’s CSR committee, said: “The team at Wythall Animal Sanctuary are renowned for their amazing work, having looked after thousands of animals over the past 50 years.”

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SOCIAL SCENE

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THE CIRCLE ROUNDS OFF YEAR IN STYLE

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Business professionals gather for networking event at Harry’s Bar

usiness professionals from across Birmingham and Solihull gathered at Harry’s Bar in the Regency Hotel for the final networking event of 2023 from The Circle. Sponsored by Solihull Times, Bold IT, GC Projects, MADE Architecture, Hayward Wright and Claritas Tax, guests enjoyed delicious appetisers prepared by the chefs at Harry’s Bar and a selection of drinks from event sponsor Peroni Nastro Azzurro. The Circle is a collaboration between EDGE Creative, Brookvale Development Specialists, Smart Homes New Homes, Glenn Clarke Financial Planning, Forecast Finance and Buckles Law. I

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Photography by Carolina Pereira

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1 David Barrett, Seb Marley, Oscar Vila Pouca. 2 Ollie Newburn, Sam Paice. 3 Louise Pinnington, Karen O'Donovan. 4 Phil Roberts, Tom Gilday, Ed Rhodes. 5 Mathew Worrall, Dean Lomas. 6 Mark Panayides, Aaron Bahra. 7 Rishi Jethwa, Ratika Mal, Honor Wilcox.

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ENGINEERING FIRM CELEBRATES 30 YEARS 2

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Family business marks three decades of success with special black-tie party irmingham and Nottingham-based Millward Consulting Engineers celebrated 30 years of business and new premises with a special black-tie party for its team, clients, suppliers, friends and family.

Managing director Nicola Millward welcomed guests who enjoyed live music, entertainment and food and drink. Nicola also shared the second-generation family company’s history and highlights since its founding in 1993. I

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1 Linda Stewert, Isobel Radford, Peter Stewert.

8 2 Nicola Millward, Naomi Brown.

3 Neil and Kerry Millward, Claire Newlove–Hill.

4 Sarah Whetton, Liam Kelly. 5 Adam and Helen Keightley. 6 David Roe, Sarah Woodward. 7 Isobel Radford, Warren Tilley. 8 Steve Barnett.

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MUSIC LEGEND TOYAH LIGHTS UP THE PARTY

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Toyah Wilcox and Community Gospel Choir entertain 200 guests at Millennium Point

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illennium Point held its annual festive season party which included a special appearance from local music legend Toyah Wilcox, who officially turned on the lights of the venue’s spectacular 39ft Christmas tree. There was also a performance from the award-winning Birmingham Community Gospel Choir. More than 200 guests attended from local businesses and members of the Millennium Point community enjoyed coming together for an evening of entertainment and networking in the awardwinning events and conference space. I

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1 Birmingham Community Gospel Choir. 2 Lee Lapthorne, Andrew Riley. 3 Alastair Jamieson, Robert Tripp, David Sandhu.

4 Simon Topman. 5 Tim Stidwell. 6 Guests enjoy the special evening. 7 Abbie Vlahakis, Toyah Wilcox, Robert Tripp.

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LEGAL FIRM HOLDS DRINKS RECEPTION 2

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Special evening with 70 guests marks corporate team growth aw firm mfg Solicitors hosted an evening drinks reception at Barwick Street bar and eatery Primitivo for more than 70 guests to mark the appointment of new corporate partner Laura Charles. Laura – who is leading mfg’s Birmingham corporate offering after a lengthy career at international law firm Gowling WLG – is based at the firm’s central city offices and is working with fellow partners Clare Lang, Stephen Wyer and James Hayes. I

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8 2 Clare Regan, Paul Tasker, Andy Moore.

9 3 Brian Flint, Keith Bagby, Tony Milner, Lucy Harrold.

4 Javed Ahmed, Gareth Woodberry. 5 Andy Kay, Ben Rothery. 6 David Thomson, Chris Piggott, Tony Seaton. 7 Steve Dobinson, Melanie Bateman, Kiran Kaur. 8 John Nolan, Melinda Rice. 9 Kat Nolan, Laura Moore.

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Photography by Jonathan Hipkiss

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WHAT: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe WHEN: Now until 28 January 2024 WHERE: Birmingham Rep, birmingham-rep.co.uk Direct from the West End this breath-taking stage show of C S Lewis’s classic novel comes to town for the most magical of shows. Step through the wardrobe into the kingdom of Narnia for a mystical adventure in a faraway land.

Hall, bmusic.co.uk

WHAT: The Fair Maid of the West WHEN: Now until 14 January WHERE: RSC Theatre, rsc.org.uk, tel 01789 331111

After a decade of groundbreaking high concept shows involving overarched interlinked narratives, massive sets and enormous comedy props, Lee

Just when you thought it was going to be an ordinary day, it turns out to be an extraordinary adventure. This

returns in streamlined solo stand-up mode.

is an Elizabethan romp with a modern, music-filled twist.

WHAT: Stewart Lee: Basic Lee WHEN: 3 February WHERE: Symphony

WHAT: Guz Khan Live WHEN: 2 and 3 February WHERE: Birmingham Hippodrome, birminghamhippodrome.com By popular demand, the Birmingham Living cover boy returns with a kick-ass comedy tour!

WHAT: Jeff Innocent: Smart Casual WHEN: 1 and 2 February WHAT: The Full Monty

WHAT: Depeche Mode

WHERE: Midlands Art Centre,

WHEN: 31 January to 3 February

WHEN: 24 January

macbirmingham.co.uk

WHERE: The Alexandra, atgtickets.com

WHERE: Utilita Arena,

A fast and funny play about a group of lads who are down on their luck and feel they have been thrown on the scrap heap. Determined to fight back, they bare a little more than they ever thought they would have to…

utilitaarenabham.co.uk

This is the first ever UK tour of the British Comedian of the Year winner and social media sensation. A great opportunity to enjoy his unique and hilarious cultural insights. But be warned, there will be strong language!

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The global superstars are touring on the back of their critically acclaimed 15th studio album, Memento Mori, hailed by Rolling Stone as “a stunning celebration of life and music.”

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WHAT’S ON WHAT: Allyson June Smith

WHAT: Whitney Houston tribute

WHEN: 21 January

with Nya King

WHERE: Glee Club,

WHEN: 26 January

glee.co.uk/birmingham/

WHERE: Nailcote Hall, nailcotehall.co.uk

Allyson admits to being a self-

The incredible Nya King brings her amazing Soul

confessed ‘over sharer’ so come and enjoy a show that will serve

and R&B style to town as she pays homage to the incredible Whitney Houston. Includes three-course

up a potent observational cocktail of wit, bite and shame.

dinner and after-show DJ.

WHAT: Babatunde Aléshé WHEN: 26 January WHERE: Town Hall, bmusic.co.uk Babatunde is one of the fastest rising stars in British comedy and as a powerhouse performer, his stand up presents an hilariously fresh perspective with impeccable stagecraft and comic timing.

WHAT: 2024 Birmingham International Tattoo WHEN: 10 and 11 February WHERE: Resorts World Arena, resortsworldarena.co.uk A stunning event with all the pomp and pageantry of marching bands, pipes and drums and exciting displays including the Inter-Service Field Gun Competition and dog-racing.

WHAT: Duelling Pianos

WHAT: Tom Clarke

WHEN: 24 January

WHEN: 27 January

WHERE: The Jam House, thejamhouse.com

WHERE: O2 Institute2 Birmingham, academymusicgroup.com

Two top pianists, Joe Stafford and Dino Baptiste, bring their own songbook favourites to battle and sparks will fly! A cracking night ahead with free admission.

Following the release of his latest album, The Other Side, The Enemy vocalist and guitarist returns for an intimate solo jaunt performing fan favourites and solo material.

WHAT: Autosport International WHEN: 11 to 14 January WHERE: NEC Birmingham, autosportinternational.com Europe’s biggest fast cars extravaganza pops into Brum with a fresh new look and some exciting new areas. Includes the Motorsport Show with stars and cars from all levels of motorsport on display.

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PERSON TO PERSON

CLOSE WITHÁ

NEIL MACKINTOSH

THE HEAD OF SOCIAL MOBILITY AT TILE CROSS ACADEMY HAS BEEN WORKING IN SCHOOLS SERVING DISADVANTAGED COMMUNITIES IN BRUM FOR OVER 25 YEARS, PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES THAT MIDDLE-CLASS CHILDREN TAKE FOR GRANTED

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT After university I went into the army as an infantry officer in the Staffordshire Regiment. I served in Germany at the end of the Cold War as well as in England, USA, Belize and two tours of Northern Ireland. My most rewarding time was training recruits at Whittington Barracks near Lichfield, as well as the pastoral side of being an officer responsible for the personal development of the soldiers under my command. After eight years this led to a career in teaching, and I have been working in schools serving disadvantaged communities in Birmingham since 1997.

IT’S WHAT I DO In a nutshell I provide opportunities to our pupils that middle-class children take for granted. These are key to developing the social and personal skills that lead to successful adult lives and drive social mobility.

They also broaden horizons and raise aspirations.

These opportunities include residential trips in the UK and abroad, enrichment opportunities after school and exposure to career pathways the pupils have never heard of. It means I spend a lot of time sourcing grant funding and developing partnerships.

This includes with Solihull School where we have now had five young people progress to their sixth form on fully-funded places. I am also chair of trustees of the Bryntail Cottage Charity, trying to revive this property in mid-Wales that has been used by children from Birmingham since 1915. One recent

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addition to my role is providing a pathway to boarding schools in partnership with the Royal National Children’s Springboard Foundation.

BIGGEST SUCCESS Leading the top scoring team in the British Army’s Cambrian Patrol Competition in 1988. The Exercise has been running for more than 60 years and is the British Army’s principal All Arms Patrol Exercise and is open to all three Services (Regular and Reserve) and international participants.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED Be ambitious and seize opportunities.

WHAT I’D LIKE TO SEE I would love the Government to make an entitlement for children to certain experiences during their time at school and provide the funding to enable this. For example, a camping trip or a visit to the pantomime.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BRUM I love the multi-cultural nature of Birmingham and being part of making that a success.

DOWNTIME I enjoy running with Droitwich Athletic Club, walking and skiing holidays with my wife and spending time with my children when they are back from university. I

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