g n i n n i w d r a w a The
AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
MAGAZINE MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL
YOUR FASHION GUIDE FOR
AUTUMN
How to transition your wardrobe without breaking the bank: tips from Dawn Marriott, stylist
MOSELEY FOLK& ARTS FESTIVAL
e u s s I e r u t a e F chool
S
Festival season continues with another fantastic weekender you can’t miss!
WIN
Family tickets to Moseley Folk Fest
inside!
LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY INSIDE
See page 30 40,000
BEN EBBRELL
WITH Of booming YouTube success SORTEDfood
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
TEDDY BEAR’S PICNIC
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
Contents
AUGUST & SEPTEMBER TOP STORY 24
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH BEN EBBRELL COMMUNITY ACTIVITY
11
MOSELEY FOLK FEST WIN TICKETS!
26
CREATIVE CORNER LEISURE & RETAIL
22/23
AUTUMN FASHION GUIDE
13
WHAT’S ON GUIDE
?
FIND GREG THE GNOME TO WIN FAMILY DAY OUT! HOME & GARDEN
27
UPCYCLE, LIKE A HERO!
25
GARDENING TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS LEGAL & FINANCIAL
21
WILKES: IS IT REALLY CONFIDENTIAL? EDUCATION
LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY ON PG
30
15
TUTOR LISTING PAGE
14-18
SCHOOL FEATURE HEALTH
7
10 AMAZING HEALTH BENEFITS OF BANANAS FOOD & DRINK
29
RECIPE PAGE
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
5
Who doesn’t secretly love a bit of folk music to get their feet tapping and head bobbing? Well wouldn’t you know - we have some tickets to the Moseley Folk Festival to giveaway! Two family weekend tickets no less. All you need to do is hop over to our website swanpublishing.org and go to the competitions section to enter and hopefully WIN! We’re surrounded by helpful people in south Birmingham and Solihull - improvers, listeners, fixers, advisers, solvers, growers, beautifiers and healers. Turn to the back of the magazine and you’ll find lots of local businesses offering their help to people just like you. If you know anyone who wants to grow their business, ask them to give us a call. We are bursting with friendly advice as well as brimming with pride that our magazines have generated significant new business for our advertisers over the last thirteen years. Enjoy the summer folks! And we’ll be back before you know it with another action packed magazine for you.
Bye for now,
Ruby, Amy and Julie www.swanpublishing.org @TheMYMagazines @amyMYMag email info@swanpublishing.org Our reader survey found...
51% Look in MY Magazine
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EDITOR’S WELCOME
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Amy Watson
Managing Director
amywatson@swanpublishing.org
0121 689 0432
Ruby Prosser
Designer & Editor
rubywatson@swanpublishing.org
0121 689 0432
54% 74% Have used a business or service from MY Magazine
Have been
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reading about it in MY Magazine
Find Greg!
All you need to do to enter our prize draw for the perfect family day out at Birmingham Botanical Gardens is find Greg the pesky gnome who is hiding somewhere in our pages. Enter through the website swanpublishing.org
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
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“Great service. I got an appointment very quickly for the Monday evening and I was in surgery on the Wednesday. Op went well and follow up consultations were very good.”
Midland Hand Clinic lead by Mr G Shyamalan FRCS NHS consultant hand surgeon. All patients welcome whether you have private medical insurance or you are self-paying. Ask us about our self funding prices for minor hand surgery.
Hand Clinic PA: Pam Dziubany Email: pdziubany@hotmail.com Call: 07815 460786 - 01827 892952 www.midlandhandclinic.com
Cornfield Magazine | 11
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
HEALTH & WELLBEING
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
LEISURE & RETAIL
A TASTE OF WHAT TO EXPECT AT
MOSELEY FOLK & ARTS FESTIVAL Moseley Folk & Arts Festival is set to return to the beautiful Moseley Park in 2019 from 30th August to 1st September. Every year people from across Birmingham and beyond flock to the park to witness a healthy mix of traditional, contemporary and downright experimental Folk, World and Roots music. This year will be the fourteenth edition of the festival, which showcases unsigned acts amongst well-established international artists, making for a truly exciting bill. In recognition of all the other non-musical entertainment featured across the weekend, organisers have changed the name of the festival to Moseley Folk & Arts. So for 2019 you can not only expect the usual high calibre of music, showcasing the best in Folk, World, Roots and Americana but also a rich programme of Arts & Crafts, Comedy & Cabaret, Poetry & Literature and Talks & Debate. FRIDAY On a quest to inform, educate and entertain audiences, Public Service Broadcasting will bring their uniquely spell-binding live AV transmissions to
Moseley Folk & Arts Festival. They co-headline with legendary Liverpool band, The Zutons, who have reformed in celebration of the 15th anniversary of their seminal album ‘Who Killed The Zutons’. Ivor Novello and Ivor Inspriation Award winner, Edwyn Collins is a musician, producer, record label owner, illustrator and more. He last performed at Moseley Folk Festival in 2013; 6 years on, he returns for a Main Stage slot on Friday 30th August. Exploring the boundaries between acoustic and electronic music, Tunng have become synonymous with the folktronica genre. Only a few shows in, Saint Alto have gathered attention for ‘hauntingly beautiful’ songs paired with the drive of indie folk found in artists such as Ben Howard and Bon Iver. Similarly beautiful, Adam Day aka County Line Runner uses his unique lyrics and storytelling to convey universal feelings from another angle. SATURDAY BRIT, NME, Ivor Novello and Mercury Prize Award-nominated, Jake Bugg, headlines the Saturday night in Moseley Park. His most recent album, ‘Hearts The Strain’, was recorded in Nashville with The Black Key’s Dan Auerbach and Gene Chrisman and Bobby Woods who have previously worked with the likes of Aretha Franklin and Dionne Warwick.
In the pre-headline slot is Lucy Rose. After starting her career singing for Bombay Bicycle Club, Lucy has gone on to release 4 solo albums, the most recent of which incorporates 70s flourishes, no drums, a rich fretless bass and light percussion to create a sense of intimacy in the songs. SUNDAY Don McLean was announced as the Sunday headliner back in November – this resulted in the highest Earlybird Ticket sales in the festival’s history. Those attending the festival can expect to hear hits such as “Vincent (Starry Starry Night)”, “Castles In The Air”, “And I Love You So” and “Crying”, as well as the anthemic “American Pie”.
WIN TICKETS!!!!! For your chance to win family weekend tickets enter our competition at swanpublishing.org enter by 15 Aug
moseleyfolk.co.uk
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
28/06/2019 11:41
LEISURE & RETAIL
What’s on August / September 2019
Markets & Fairs
Solihull Farmers’ Market Fresh locally grown produce Where: Solihull High Street When: First Friday every month Info: solihullfarmersmarket.org
Fine & Local Food Fayre Locally sourced food and produce from top quality suppliers. Where: Solihull High Street When: Third Saturday every month Info: solihull.gov.uk/events Bentley Heath Country Market A cross between a farmers’ market and a craft fair all under one roof. Where: Bentley Heath Hall When: Every Fri 9.30am - 11.30am Info: facebook.com
Seasonal Events
For the kids
Moseley Folk Fest The enchanting Moseley Folk Festival returns with the incomparable Don Mclean headlining! Where: Moseley Private Park When: 30 Aug - 1 Sep Info: moseleyfolk.co.uk
Morgan & West: More magic for kids Bigger, better, and containing even more magic than before, More Magic For Kids! sees our favourite magic duo amazing everyone and anyone of almost any age (5+), from any time period. Where: Core Theatre When: 30 Aug Info: coretheatresolihull.co.uk
Music in the park: Jazmatazz! Join the George Huxley Hot Five, the band will be performing Dixieland and traditional jazz classics, perfect accompaniment to a picnic in the park! Where: Knowle Park When: 11 Aug, 2-4:15pm Info: solihull.gov.uk
We are the champions! Getting fit can be fun and this event High Summer Craft Fair proves it! With sporting activities KNO Visit this craft market for a chance galore, including school sports W L E to purchase handmade items from & D races and much more. O RRID home and abroad. Where: G E Damson Park FamStreet Where: Mell Square, High O U N 11am - 3pm BMX ily Fun Da When: 7RAug, S y D TA When: 31 Aug 3 Red TUNT S featuri ng B LE crowd Bull Stu HOW Info: solihull.gov.uk nt part
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Dorridge Day Family fun day featuring BMX stunt show, dog agility show, and performances by local dance groups @Ka n-dDplus fancy dress competition and RT Kand much more. DRT www Park Where: Dorridge .kand d.org .uk When: 8 Sep Info: kandd.org.uk 16/0
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Summer fun Help Warwickshire Wildlife Trust as they find all the colours of summer and get arty outdoors as we go on a summer adventure. Suitable for children aged 2+. Entrance costs £3.50 per child. Where: The Parkridge Centre When: 27 Aug Info: solihull.gov.uk Kids in space! Take part in a superhero mission on the treasure trail, meet some dancing storm troopers and enjoy a space themed craft activity. Other entertainment includes Punch and Judy shows; children’s rides, face painting and more. Free entry. Where: Olton Jubilee Park When: 21 Aug Info: solihull.gov.uk
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
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SCHOOL FEATURE EDUCATION
Thinking about the future With the summer holidays stretching before us into the distance the new school term seems such a long way off, but it will come round as quick as a flash. And with it will come exciting new opportunities and experiences for children moving up in their schools. For those going into year 6 there is the prospect of moving to ‘big school’ just around the corner - one of the biggest steps in their young lives. With the choice between grammar, state and private schools, finding the right one for your child is likely to be a major focus for you this year.
We all want what’s best for our children and what suits one down to the ground may not be right for another. It’s not just about results and Ofsted reports, it’s about the feeling you get when walking around the place, the feeling your child gets too. So, to give you a helping hand in making this momentous decision we’ve put together the open day dates of secondary schools in and around the area. See page 18.
King Edward VI
Camp Hill Schools
Music Departments The Schools provide good resources and a wide range of performing opportunities. Experienced and enthusiastic teaching leads to excellent results. An outstanding music education free of charge. Places for A level music are available. Vicarage Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham, B14 7QJ King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Boys (0121 444 3188) www.camphillboys.bham.sch.uk King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Girls (0121 444 2150) www.kechg.org.uk
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
SCHOOL FEATURE
EDUCATION IS SPECIAL Fifty Years ago, if your child had a Learning Disability (classed as an Pictured above, Caroline Hutton IQofofMartineau under 50),Gardens you could receive watches a devastating letter from the Local Andy Street, CBE Mayor of the West Midlands the ribbon Education Authoritycut stating that Nicholson of Jo theywith wereCharlotte ‘ineducable’ and had no Malone London. entitlement to a state education. Please visit the Martineau
Special schools did exist from the start website of theGardens 20th century, due tofor themore work of information: pioneers like Dame Ellen Pinsent, but it wasmartineau-gardens.org.uk/ not until 1970 that campaigners won the legal right for everyone to be visitor-information’ educated. Now, local charity CASBA is revealing the stories of Birmingham’s special schools over these past 50 years thanks to money raised by National Lottery players.
Local Private Tutors Helen Mills
Flute & Intensive Grade 5 Theory BMus; GBSM Hons; ABSM Over 30 years flute teaching experience. All abilities, ages and levels taught. Excellent results record. ALSO Aural Training Member of ISM Blenheim Road, Moseley Tel: 0121 449 2135
The Education is Special project is a groundbreaking intergenerational approach to looking at Learning Disability history. Project Coordinator Joe Peacock will be going to special schools, including Fox Hollies in Moseley and Dame Ellen Pinsent Primary in Kings Heath to train pupils as oral historians. They will record interviews with former staff, pupils and parents to compare their experiences with their own before presenting the results at a celebration event at the University of Birmingham next July. There will also be a film and touring exhibition uncovering how these pupils’ school days have changed over the last 50 years. Find out more at www.casba.org.uk/educationisspecial
Sarah Nation
Maths & English tuition Key Stages 1 & 2 (age 5-11) Highly experienced local tutor, qualified primary school teacher. DBS checked. Tel: 0121 446 6468 sarah.nation@btinternet.com
Hazel Buller BSc
Guitar Tutor All ages, abilities and levels taught. Lessons provided in your own home or Solihull. Special rates for JLR emloyees. DBS Certified. hazelbuller.co.uk Tel: 07847 557 765
Sharon Wall
Clarinet Teacher GBSM (Hons) ARCM ABSM PGCE Highly experienced teacher with excellent success rates from beginner to diploma level. Contact Sharon on new number: 0121 493 8793 sharonmcwall@gmail.com sharonwall.com
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
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swanp
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15
SCHOOL FEATURE
An independent school for girls aged 21/2 -18 years Westbourne . Preparatory . Senior . Sixth Form
Discover how girls benefit from an EHS education. Visit at our
WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Saturday 21 September 2019
9:30 - 12:00noon
Talk from the new Headmistress at 10:30am Reserve your place now. Contact admissions@edgbastonhigh.co.uk or 0121 4545831 ‘Outstanding’ and ‘Excellent’ - ISI Inspection
THE FIRST STEPS IN YOUR DAUGHTER’S ADVENTURE Academic, Music, Sport, Art Scholarships 0121 454 5831 admissions@edgbastonhigh.co.uk www.edgbastonhigh.co.uk Come and see for yourself what makes an EHS education so special
16
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
SCHOOL FEATURE
How do you recognise good pastoral care? Most schools’ websites boast that they provide good pastoral care. Edgbaston High School (EHS) is no exception and since its foundation in 1876 has cemented an unrivalled reputation for delivering an exceptionally strong and distinctive pastoral programme. It is obvious when pastoral care is lacking, of course, but an excellent provision is much more than just being nice: it is putting a child’s needs at the centre of a school’s operation. What does effective pastoral care mean? How do schools achieve it, and what should parents be looking for? Day to day Pastoral care involves teaching and providing opportunities for pupils to grow in their self-esteem, confidence, and independence of thought. An effective programme works hand-in-hand with academic success; it is no accident that great results and improved attainment are often a happy side effect of contributing to a young person’s personal, social and academic development. Truly excellent care should be evident every day and the fact we put our girls’
learning and wellbeing before every other consideration sets EHS apart. Teaching staff are trained to look out for subtle changes in a pupil’s behaviour - has a child been quieter than usual? Unusually worried or withdrawn? Day to day, teachers monitor pupils closely to ensure their welfare, and in the classroom work with them in order to build on their strengths and interests. Staff receive regular training in issues faced by young people today, from cyberbullying to depression, and great emphasis is placed on the school’s sense of community with a mentoring programme and vertical House system encouraging friendships between girls. Communication Schools should maintain excellent communications with parents to ensure continuity of care. At EHS, the systems for communicating pastoral concerns instantly through sophisticated software are robust. Anti-bullying measures ensure that everyone knows what is acceptable and what is not, and who they can turn to if needed. Regular Pastoral Clinics provide an opportunity for parents to discuss any aspect of their daughter’s life in school. Mental Wellbeing EHS Pastoral Teams are prepared for any non-academic issues that may arise. Self-esteem and body-confidence have long been a feature at the school, and we take the mental wellbeing of our
girls very seriously, working tirelessly to ensure that students with varying needs are supported and able to cope, thus maximising their learning opportunities. A School Counsellor is available and works in consultation with parents and girls where necessary. Embedded in the curriculum Excellent pastoral care is long term, chimes with the wider educational agenda and includes a variety of initiatives undertaken across curricular and extracurricular pursuits. For example, EHS offers each pupil their optimum level of learning, serving up academic challenge alongside the right amount of care and support, whilst an enthusiastic involvement in sport, music, House and other community activities is actively encouraged. Ultimately, real pastoral care involves the provision of activities and opportunities that develop resilience, a sound moral code and the values that will sustain an individual’s wellbeing throughout their life. If the university destinations and career success of former pupils are anything to go by, then Edgbaston High School is delivering on its promises.
www.edgbastonhigh.co.uk
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
17
SCHOOL FEATURE
School Open Days Every August / September issue we gather together a list of the school open days to make the difficult decisions about your childrens’ future just little easier.
Alderbrook School
www.lodeheathschool.co.uk 18 Sep, 6.15pm - 8.30pm
details
19 Sep, 9.15am - 10.45am
Arden Academy
www.arden.solihull.sch.uk 26 Sep, 6.00pm - 8.30pm, all welcome, 27 Sep 10.45am - 12.00noon, parents / guardians only
Grace Academy
www.graceacademy.org.uk Date to be confirmed, see website for details
John Henry Newman Catholic College
www.johnhenrynewmancatholiccollege. org.uk 12 Sept 4.45 - 6.30
Langley School
www.langley-sec.solihull.sch.uk Date to be confirmed, see website for details
Light Hall School www.lighthall.co.uk
19 Sep, 6.00pm - 8.00pm
18
Lode Heath School
www.alderbrook.solihull.sch.uk Date to be confirmed, see website for
Lyndon School
www.lyndonschool.co.uk 18 Sep, 6.00pm - 8.00pm
Smith’s Wood Sports College www.smithswood.co.uk Date to be confirmed, see website for details
Solihull School
www.solsch.org.uk 21 Sep, 9.30am - 12.00noon
St Martin’s Girls School www.saintmartins-school.com 14 Sep, 9.30am - 12.00noon
St Peter’s Catholic School
www.vle.st-peters.solihull.sch.uk 19 Sep, 5.30pm - 8.00pm, 23 & 24 Sep 9.00am - 12.00noon (open mornings by appointment only)
Tudor Grange Academy
www.solihull.tgacademy.org.uk 17 Sep, 6.00 - 8,30 19 Sep, 9am / 2pm by appointment only
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
Andy Street with pupils, parents an d staff at Langley Midlands, with Jo Primary School. hn Cashmore, he Below, Andy Stree adteacher at Lang t, Mayor of the W ley Primary Scho est ol.
WEST MIDLANDS MAYOR ANDY STREET GOES BACK TO HIS OLD SCHOOL IN SOLIHULL
I had said that I wanted to visit one of the 60 schools that the Combined Authority works with, and that I really wanted to see a Living Streets project in action. “I was overjoyed when I found out I was going to my old school, and I had a fantastic time there meeting the children and the staff.” West Midlands Mayor Andy Street, who grew up in Solihull, paid a visit to his old primary school to see how pupils there were enjoying a new scheme that encourages them to walk to school. Mr Street, who heads up the West Midlands Combined Authority, popped into Langley Primary School, in St Bernards Road, on June 21 to join children in the WOW Challenge, a scheme created by charity Living Streets. “It was wonderful to go back to Langley,” Mr Street said, “but the funny thing is that it was a complete coincidence.
The WOW Challenge aims to reduce congestion and pollution from cars around school gates, and sees schools signed up to reward children who walk to school at least once a week with collectable badges. Under the Langley scheme, parents drop their children off at the car park of nearby Olton Friary. The pupils then walk the rest of the way to school, enjoying fresh air and a sociable start to the day. “Living Streets is a huge success at Langley School,” Mr Street said, “It’s
an enormous credit to them that they have got 84% of their children walking, scooting or cycling to school - which is an incredibly high percentage, and makes them one of the best examples of a Living Streets project in the region. “I walked with the pupils from Olton Friary, who have been very supportive of the scheme, and the children were chatting away with each other. Then I joined them in an assembly, and found myself sitting in the same hall that I had used 50 years before as a pupil. In fact, the buildings and playground haven’t changed that much in all these years – it was wonderful to go back.” Mr Street also praised Solihull Council for introducing parking restrictions that supported the scheme. “This is a great example of how Living Streets, the council, the school and the community can drive a really wonderful, healthy change in behaviour,” he added.
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
19
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
IS IT REALLY CONFIDENTIAL? The use of Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) to cover up claims of sexual harassment and discrimination may become a thing of the past, says Jas Dubb, Employment Law specialist at The Wilkes Partnership. When a member of staff leaves an employer, the company may seek to enter into a legally binding settlement agreement, in which the employer will often insist upon a confidentiality clause (which is a form of non-disclosure). A settlement agreement is an agreement whereby the employee agrees not to issue any claims against the employer usually in exchange for an agreed sum of money. Entering into a settlement agreement, containing stringent confidentiality terms, effectively buys an ex-employee’s silence. The use of settlement agreements to settle allegations of sexual harassment and discrimination in the employment field has come in for considerable public debate of late. Many ex-employees have said they had little option but to consider the settlement route. The lack of affordable legal advice, the legal costs and relatively low compensation awards and the fear of being ‘blacklisted’ from future employment have deterred them from bringing an Employment Tribunal claim. Earlier this year the Telegraph reported on several alleged cases involving Sir Philip Green, owner of high street brands including Top Shop, Dorothy Perkins and Burtons. Sir Philip tried to prevent The Telegraph from publishing the allegations but ended up with a £3 million legal bill and the details were published anyway. Billionaire Sir Philip is facing ongoing allegations of sexual misconduct and racist behavior from a number of former members of staff. He is reported
to have paid them vast sums - up to £1 million to keep them quiet through the use of NDAs. Such high profile cases have intensified the call for reforms in the use of the law concerning NDAs. The House of Commons Women and Equality Committee has recently produced a further report entitled ‘The Use of Non-Disclosure Agreements in Discrimination Cases’. Whilst acknowledging the many protective aspects of NDAs for employees as well as employers the report highlights a number of potential downsides with the continued blanket use of NDA, including: • Their use to cover up unlawful discrimination and harassment allowing management behaviour and organisational culture to go unchallenged and unchanged • They can enable perpetrators to go on to harass and discriminate against others and prevent victims of such behavior from knowing about or supporting other complaints • They make employers complacent allowing them to avoid investigating unlawful discrimination or harassment complaints and holding perpetrators to account • They are being traded for things that employers should be providing as a
matter of course such as references and remedial action to tackle discrimination. This report makes a number of recommendations on preventing and dealing with sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace including: • Stopping the use of confidentiality clauses to cover up allegations of sexual harassment and discrimination • A requirement for the use of plain English in confidentiality clauses • One-way cost shifting so the employer is more likely to be ordered to pay the employee’s costs in the event of a successful Tribunal claim • An increase in damages for pain and suffering • Requiring employers to pay the cost of employees seeking legal advice on settlement agreements • Strengthening of corporate governance requirements, forcing employers to face up to their responsibility to protect employees from harassment and discrimination For advice on any employment related matter and to discuss our Free Employment Health Check for your business please contact Jas Dubb at The Wilkes Partnership on
0121 233 4333
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
FASHION
Your fashion guide for autumn This issue Dawn Marriott shares her expert advice on how to transition your wardrobe into Autumn, without breaking the bank!
With the official start of autumn just a few weeks away and the high street stores already gearing up to start the season, I thought I’d share with you some ideas on how to make your summer clothes last as long as possible whilst making the transition into autumn. August is a tricky month with plenty of warm sunny days and our summer wardrobes still in full swing. But as the month end draws near a certain chill appears in the air that starts us thinking about our autumn wardrobes. The best way to get through the months of September and October for me is to take your summer staples and layer up. By adding a long sleeve layer underneath a summer dress can offer an instant autumnal feel. Pop on a scarf in muted colours over a denim jacket as we turn away from summer dressing.
The addition on an ankle boot either heeled or flat and chunky gives a summer dress an instant winter edge. Tights become our best friends as we keep the chill out on colder days. turn to your own wardrobe and dig out your blazers, the addition to any outfit will ensure style and warmth, try rolling back or pushing up the sleeves for a more relaxed feel. Lastly replace those summer sandals with a sporty trainer –the perfect every day shoe.
5. Long sleeved denim dress – denim is around to stay for winter but not as we know it – denim moves into dresses, skirts and skirts for a none jeans look. Add tights and boots as the winter draws in.
Here are my top finds to help to transit your wardrobe to Autumn 2019
7. Lastly as the colder weather draws in, if you haven’t already given them a go invest in a pair of trainers, they are the go to for footwear and are being worn both formally and casually – these are a great starting point if you are new to the trainers trend.
1. Winter floral midi skirt – still on trend for Autumn Winter this staple skirt will keep you cool in the final few summer days and work well to layer with a chunky knit or denim jacket, go with darker colours to ensure winter wearing. 2. Ankle boot – add to summer dresses or maxi skirt with a denim jacket for an instant autumn feel.
6. Sheer tights - the return of the tights will have most of us leaping with joy – for early autumn try sheer denier like 20 instead of full opaque, for a little coverage whilst not looking heavy.
Here’s to making your summer clothes last a while longer as we start the Autumn 2019 journey.
x Dawn
3. Chunky knit – either a cardigan or jumper in a large knit worn back to a summer dress adds warmth and style. 4. Tartan blazer – a blazer is perfect for when it’s not cold enough for a coat, buying into Tartan - one of autumn’s biggest trends will update your look and take you through to winter.
www.dawnmarriottstylist info@dawnmarriottstylist.com 07725 538 829 Dawnmarriott_stylist Dawn Marriott Stylist
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
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SORTEDfood - Born in Birmingham Exclusive interview with Ben Ebbrell, founder of SORTEDfood Arts Management there because, as he put it, that was the best course in the country. During his studies he started suggesting to friends how to make easy, cheap, nutritious recipes (that would impress the girls) and scribbling them on the back of beermats in the pub. And from there came his first book ‘A Recipe for Student Survival’ which was published in 2008.
It’s a warm sunny summer’s day in my kitchen with the doors thrown open to the garden and it seems surreal to be talking to a YouTuber with over 2.2 million subscribers. (My teenage son was uber-impressed when I told him this morning.) What comes across immediately when talking to Ben, is his complete obsession with food and all things foodie. He’s a food expert first and a YouTube sensation second - and that’s why it has worked so well for him and his team. It all started at University College Birmingham. Ben chose to study Culinary
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Ben started to create videos of his recipes to promote the book and what he found was the unique ability of video to show the friendship and fun around food. They started with ‘how-to’ videos but quickly evolved into entertainment around food. You’d think Ben would run out of recipes to demonstrate and talk about, but you’d be wrong. With such a loyal following Ben, and the SORTEDfood team, take inspiration from their audience who comment on videos giving them tips on how to improve recipes with twists and nuances they’d never have dreamt of.
They love to bring stories together behind the food. For example, did you know that pigs are now 30% longer than they were 50 years ago? And 90% of the bananas in the world are cloned from the same banana! Ben is always looking for ways to make food interesting and entertaining and the latest book they are working on is aimed at achieving just that. Called ‘The Bucket List’ it will include the 40 dishes you should eat before you die. Ben started food college with a dream to open a cool gastro pub and feed 60 people a day - and now he is ‘feeding’, inspiring around 300,000 people a day… with over 10 million video views a month. Tasty! You can take a look at Ben and the SORTEDfood team here:
YouTube.com/SORTEDfood - written by Amy Watson
They also explore the food industry itself with interesting insights and quirky ideas. Food should be a talking point bringing a conversation to the table.
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
HOME & GARDEN
GARDENING TIPS From head gardener Wayne Williams at Birmingham Botanical Gardens It’s the time of year when you are most likely to be enjoying the fruits of your labours in the garden – the summer blooms are looking their best and your borders and containers are at the peak of Instagrammable perfection. Over the next couple of months, there will be plenty to get on with. Here are just a few of the jobs you’ll benefit from doing: • Keep deadheading your flowering plants and do it regularly. • Once hebes and lavenders have flowered, give them a light prune.
• Climbing shrubs, such as pyracantha and wisteria, and climbing/rambling roses can be pruned once they have stopped flowering. • Keep your containers and hanging baskets well watered and feed them fortrnightly, too. • Damp down greenhouses if the temperatures soar. This helps to maintain humidity. • In September, divide your perennials when they have finished flowering. • If you have a pond, September is a good time to get rid of the debris in the water before the leaves drop off the trees. • Remove any shading from your greenhouse to ensure any remaining plants receive maximum light. It’s also a good idea to close vents and doors in the late afternoon to trap the residual heat. • Improve your soil in September, whether that’s adding organic matter or green manure.
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
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Upcycle
HOME & GARDEN
SAVE THE WORLD!
I like to think that superheroes would always consider how to save the world even in their every day lives. Buying a meal? Save the planet by going vegetarian! Buying a holiday? Save the planet by exploring the UK. Buying furniture? Save the planet by buying second hand from a charity shop and giving an old cabinet new life with a fresh coat of paint!
Written By Ruby Prosser
1. Where?
2. What?
3. How?
There are so many wonderful charity shops dedicated to handling donated furniture and re-selling. It’s always a better idea to think of these places when buying and getting rid of furniture, proceeds go to a great cause and the planet breathes a little sigh of relief for its resources not having been plundered for the sake of a bit more storage space for your home.
You’ll find that second hand furniture tends to be far sturdier than brand new flat pack, just in need of a little TLC. Prepping your furniture is essential and it can be quite satisfying, grab your sandpaper and go to town on that dresser. And then, choosing your colour/s and handles is probably the most fun part of all. This is when you start to see your vision come together.
I like to do all the messy work in the garden, but if you’re feeling brave then a few pages of newspaper on the floor should suffice. Make sure you take the drawers fully out to paint them and allow them to dry before returning them. Once your masterpiece is entirely dry it’s finally time to put the cherry on top, screw in your glorious handles!
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
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KNOWLE & DORRIDGE ROUND TABLE
DoRRiDGE Day
Family Fun Day featuring
BMX STUNT SHOW 3 Red Bull Stunt Riders with crazy stunts crowd participation welcome so bring your bikes! DOG AGILITY SHOW by Animal Kind Animal Kind Dog Training Zone with Have-a-go agility & obstacle course, Puppy sensory & socialisation section and Hot dogs chillout zone Local Dance Groups INFLATABLE MADNESS unlimited ride pass
PLUS .
FANCY DRESS COMPETITION Recycling theme YOUNG HERO AWARD THE BIG WATER FIGHT (bring your Water Pistol!)
Sunday 8th September 12-4pm at Dorridge Park Admission: £3 per person or £7 for families
(2 adults & up to 3 children)
FREE Raffle Entry & Parking £1 from each entry goes to Dorridge Scouts
8 inflatable attractions for £8 (£5 children under 5)
Classic Car Show Join our Classic Car Procession into the Park
passing outside Sainsbury’s in Dorridge at 11:45, then heading into the park
proudly sponsored by
@KandDRT
e l c y c cle y c re
KandDRT
www.kandd.org.uk
all proceeds go to charities and good causes DorridgeDayCover_landscape.indd 1
16/07/2019 00:33
Factory Works at The Custard Factory The Gin To My Tonic are delighted to be bringing their festival to the Factory Works at The Custard Factory this Summer on Saturday 31st August. The Gin To My Tonic is a brand based in Faringdon, Oxford that holds gin festivals across the country. Co-Founder Emira Shepherd said “We are delighted to be able to hold a Gin Festival for the people of Birmingham and beyond. We are also delighted to showcase various gin brands that will be in attendance and showcasing their products.” The Gin To My Tonic Festival brings together over 100 different gins from across the UK and beyond. Each gin
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stocked behind the bars has been selected based on outstanding craftsmanship, delightful flavour andCaroline the most Hutton enjoyable Pictured above, drinking experiences. The festival is here of Martineau Gardens watches to take you on a journey of gin discovery!
Andy Street, CBE Mayor of the
West Midlands cut the ribbon TICKETS £13.50 PER PERSON, INCLUDES: with Charlotte Nicholson of Jo
Malone London. Guaranteed Entry (subject to proof of ID) Gin Explorer Guide Gin Copa Glass Please visit the Martineau Gin Tote Bag website for more Gardens Stainless steel straw information: Gin Sampling / Trade Stands martineau-gardens.org.uk/ Live Entertainment Gin Party visitor-information’ Atmosphere SESSION TIMES: Saturday 31th August 1.00 – 5.00pm Saturday 31st August 7.00 – 11.00pm
To book tickets visit: ww.thegintomytonic.com
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
FOOD & DRINK
Spanish Summer Stew
INGREDIENTS
METHOD
200g tinned tomatoes 200g tinned chickpeas 2 peppers 1/2 butternut squash 1 onion 2 tbsp honey 1 tbsp paprika 1 tbsp oregano 1 tbsp thyme 1 tbsp ground fennel seeds 2 cloves garlic 1 tbsp olive oil 500g vegetable stock
1. Mix the herbs, spices and honey together in a bowl. 2. Add the olive oil, onions, peppers and butternut squash to the casserole dish and fry for ten minutes, stiring regularly. 3. Season with salt and pepper, and add the 500ml of vegetable stock. Also add the bowl of herbs and spices, stir well.
4. Now pour in the chickpeas and tinned tomatoes, give them a good stir and place the cassrole lid on with a little gap for the steam to escape. Allow to reduce for 30-45 mins. 5. When the butternut squash is soft you can fry the slices of halloumi in a separet pan and serve. This dish tastes just as great the next day and should keep in the fridge for 3 days, or in the freezer for a month.
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
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Local Business Directory Antenatal Support
Sophrosyne Birth
Bike Shop
4
3
Bike Pro Racing
Cleaning & Ironing
20
Mopheads
Computer Support
4
Net Clicks
Entertainment Moseley Folk Festival
Event Dorridge Day
Central Driveways
JH Garden & Property Services Resin Drives
Gardens
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Lime Tree Village
12
Shutter Doors
Garolla Shutter Doors 4
School
Edgbaston High School for Girls King Edward VI Camp Hill Schools
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Tutor Listing
2
31
Dimension Driveways & Landscapes
Retirement Living
Solicitor
Ambleside Landscapes 4
25 25 32
8
Midland Hand Clinic
11
Gardening & Landscaping
Betel UK Garden Treeworks
Healthcare Services
16/17 14
The Wilkes Partnership 21
Window Cleaner
Deluxe Window Cleaner
Windows & Doors
Cloudy2Clear
15 2 7
Upcycled Furniture Betel UK
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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019
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and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN743675) We are MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019 a credit broker and not a lender, we offer credit facilities from a panel of lenders. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply.