ITC_Birmingham_issue 9(WEB)

FREE - ISSUE 9 - DECEMBER 2016 

COMPETITION - P11 

WIN 2 TICKETS TO 2 EVENTS 

COUTURE QUEEN 

CATRIONA HANLY - P14 

12 DAYS OUT 

OF CHRISTMAS - P56 

EAT, DRINK, 

& BE MERRY 

ITC GUIDE TO 

GERMAN MARKET - P80 

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR // SPONSORED BY ALPS GROUP 

3 

WELCOME 

LETTER 

FROM THE 

EDITOR 


EAT, DRINK, 

& BE MERRY 

BIRMINGHAM & WEST MIDLANDS 


COUTURE QUEEN 


12 DAYS OUT 




Welcome to the 9th edition of In The City Magazine Birmingham. The 

count-down to Christmas has begun! This edition will get you in the spirit 

of Christmas as we highlight all that is happening over the festive season 

in our beloved City, as well as your must have Christmas essentials to make the 25th 

that much more special. 

EDITOR IN CHIEF 

Shana Owen 

shana@inthecityuk.com 

Nothing marks the imminent arrival of Christmas more than the German Market; the 

largest in Europe, has become part and parcel of the festive season. There is nothing 

better than walking around (with your thermals on), clinging to your mulled wine to 

keep warm whilst trying all the delicious treats on offer. There is of course plenty 

of opportunity to buy gifts to fill the odd Christmas stocking or two. Our Out In The 

City section this month is our essential guide on all that is on offer at the German 

Market; check it out to ensure you don’t miss out! 

In The City Magazine are proud to introduce our new Fashion Editor Catriona 

Hanley who is fast becoming the on trend designer for all things couture. With inside 

knowledge on the latest trends as well as showcasing her own collections from time 

to time - we know you fashionistas will be all inspired. This month our Fashion & 

Lifestyle section is jam packed with everything you need to look your best over the 

festive season (and beyond). There is nothing that makes a woman feel her best 

more than a new hairstyle and a pampering manicure/pedicure. Liberty Lounge is 

the perfect place to see to your pampering needs, located within close proximity of 

the uber trendy Brindleyplace, this chic salon offers all that is expected of a high end 

salon plus more. 

ITCmagUK 

ITCmagUK 

@ITCmagUK 

www.inthecitymag.com 

In The City Magazine 

G.B. House, 

21 - 27 Milk Street, 

Digbeth, 

Birmingham, 

B5 5TR 

Advertising 

advertising@inthecityuk.com 

0121 230 8333 

Publishing 

enq@askalps.com 

0121 230 8099 

One of my favourite articles in this month’s Food and Drink section is our indulgent 

piece on Christmas Hampers. Be it for yourself, or a gift for a friend or loved one, 

there is something about a hamper that makes you feel beyond special. Packed with 

decadent treats that will have your family and friends wowed, we have picked the 

most indulgent hampers that we think have the X Factor. 

Here at In The City Magazine we like to keep things fresh and change things up, this 

month is no exception with the arrival of an entirely new section! Our new Arts and 

Culture section starts appropriately with an article featuring contemporary art at the 

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. We also cover a much anticipated event held at 

Waterstones featuring two highly acclaimed authors – Ulrich Peltzer and Helen Cross, 

the event is set to be an engaging experience. 

In-keeping with our theme, our Monthly Feature section includes not one but two 

guides on what’s hot and happening over the festive season. Our ’12 days out of 

Christmas’ article is your go to page for December whilst our ‘New Years Eve in 

Birmingham’ article features the places that we think will bring the New Year in with 

a bang. 

As the count-down to Christmas begins, this edition has all you need to eat, drink 

and be merry – wishing all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New 

Year! 

HAPPY READING! 

Shana Owen

4 CONTENTS // SPONSORED BY ALPS GROUP 

Issue 9 | December 2016 

CONTENTS 

NEWS 

Spotlight | The Brand Fit For Royalty.............................8 

Unsung Heroes: The MBCC Awards ..............................10 

7 

ENTERTAINMENT 

31 

COMPETITION 

11 

Spotlight | Product Of His DNA: Curtis Young .......32 

Win 2 Tickets To 2 Events With The Plough ..............11 

Passions Shared At Celebration Of A City ................34 

Set To Blossom With The Magic Garden ..................36 

FASHION + LIFESTYLE 

13 

ARTS & CULTURE 39 

Spotlight | Catriona The Couture Queen .................14 

Three Wise Men; Acceptance, Presence & Love ......16 

Liberty Lounge Award-Winning Hair Finnesse ......18 

Spotlight | Top Contemporary Art Comes To 

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery ............................40 

Ulrich Peltzer & Helen Cross at Waterstones...........41 

FOOD & DRINK 

21 NIGHTLIFE 

43 

Spotlight | The Yard Opens At The High Field ...........22 

Spotlight | The Midlands Bassline Gathering .......44 

‘Tis The Season To Be Indulgent ....................................26 

- Bring Your Ducklings To Santa’s Grotto ....................45 

Get The Glow! ..........................................................................28 

- Events listing .........................................................................46 

Recipe Of The Month: Poached Salmon Special .....28 

In The City created by: In The City Magazine Ltd 

Published by: Alps Group | Sales Director: Darren Tyler 

Editor in Chief: Shana Owen | Editor: Richard Hobson 

Creative Director: Hassan Moulavi | Designer: Jerome Beaumont 

E: advertising@inthecityuk.com 

E: editorial@inthecityuk.com 

T: 0121 230 8333 

Switchboard: 0121 230 8080

CONTENTS // SPONSORED BY ALPS GROUP 

5 

MONTHLY FEATURE 

TRAVEL 

53 

Spotlight | The Season Of Goodwill...........................54 

The 12 Days Out Of Christmas .......................................56 

New Years Eve In Birmingham ...........................................58 

Weight Gain Over Christmas - No Longer! ..................59 

61 

OUT IN THE CITY 

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY 

79 

Spotlight | ITCMag Guide To The German Market ....80 

Cocktail Of The Month: Candy Cane By Nuvo .........82 

85 

Spotlight | Festive Marketing .........................................86 

Christmas Is A Time For Connecting .............................87 

CHARITY 

89 

Spotlight | South For The Winter ........................................62 

The Unique Rockhouse Retreat ........................................64 

HOME & PROPERTY 

MOTORS 

67 

Spotlight | Introducing brightLET Blog .......................68 

Top Tips For Accommodating Guests Over 

Christmas ....................................................................................69 

Winter Property Maintenance............................................70 

73 

Spotlight | Bring On 2017 ....................................................74 

Jaguar I-Pace Set To Take On Tesla .................................76 

Spotlight | 15 Years In Pubs..& 40 In Love With Africa ..90 

WHERE IN THE CITY 

93 

In The City Guide ..................................................................94 

- Restaurants ..........................................................................94 

- Nightclubs ............................................................................98 

- Hotels ......................................................................................98 

- Bars ..........................................................................................98 

All views and opinions expressed by contributors to, and staff of In The City Magazine may not represent the views and opinions 

of the publisher. In The City Magazine takes no responsibility for claims made in advertisements, advertorials or editorials made in 

this magazine. No part of In The City Magazine may be reproduced or copied in any way without prior written consent of 

In The City Magazine Ltd

Award winning dining 

in Edgbaston 

The Calthorpe Estate within Edgbaston, just a mile from Birmingham city centre, 

is home to an array of award winning places to eat. 

Whether catching up with friends or entertaining in style, take a taste test in 

Edgbaston Village in the wide selection of restaurants, cafes, bars and leisure clubs. 

Take a taste test in Edgbaston Village. 

To book a table visit www.calthorpe.co.uk/dining 

Offices / Residential / Retail / Medical / Leisure / Education

SPOTLIGHT 

NEWS 

SECTION SPONSORED BY 

RUBRIC LOIS KING SOLICITORS 

WWW.RLKSOLICITORS.COM

8 NEWS // SPONSORED BY RUBRIC LOIS KING SOLICITORS 

The brand fit for royalty 

By Robert Hallmark (CEO Gruhme - www.gruhme.co.uk) 

Hello, readers of In The City 

Magazine! In my feature this 

month I sit down with Henry 

Deakin. Henry, alongside his brother 

James are in charge of the family jeweller 

and cufflink maker brand Deakin and 

Francis. I have known Henry for many 

years and his passion for running the 

business was certainly a major influence 

when I started my own company. 

Deakin and Francis has a rich history 

of making cufflinks and jewellery here 

in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. Tell 

us a bit more about the brand and its 

origins? 

This year we are incredibly proud to 

be celebrating our 230th anniversary 

– and as a long established firm of 

manufacturing jewellers and silversmiths, 

Deakin & Francis is proud to continually 

build on the heritage of the brand and 

the family values that have been created 

over the past two centuries. 

We were founded in 1786 but sadly 

the Francis line ceased with the death 

of Captain J H Francis in the First 

World War. Despite this long history, 

the business has remained in the same 

building (that once even had as its 

resident the legendary James Watt – 

father of the Industrial Revolution and 

name sake of the unit of power and 

revolutioniser of the steam engine; 

the base of one remains in our factory 

today). 

Seven generations on and the business 

is today managed by me, Henry, and 

my brother, James Deakin, having taken 

over the reins from our father. We have 

taken the family trade as seriously as 

those before us, James studied at the 

Gemmological Institute of America and 

is a Graduate Jeweller Gemmologist and 

Designer. I studied Gemmology at the 

International Gemmological Institute 

in Vicenza and am also a Graduate 

Gemmologist. 

Today the firm is a great example 

of craftsmen at their best with roles 

including metalworkers who stamp 

blanks ready for the workshop through 

to enamellers who are involved in the 

delicate, highly skilled work of vitreous 

enamelling and polishers who prepare 

the product ready to sell.

NEWS // SPONSORED BY RUBRIC LOIS KING SOLICITORS 

9 

Most people would run a mile at the 

idea of running a business as a family, 

what do you think has been the secret 

to the long standing success of D&F as 

a family run company? 

The guilt of letting the family down 

after all these years is a pretty big 

driver! Every morning, walking up the 

steps to the office knowing that seven 

generations before me have also walked 

on the same path is a good reminder. 

Family is at the heart of our business. 

Our company is built on a strong set 

of family values and an important 

challenge has been to ensure we 

maintain these going forward – it is these 

values, together with our continuously 

innovative range of products and a first 

class service that sets us apart from 

others. 

I think one piece of advice would be to 

find a role that works for each member 

of the family,. Work to the individual’s 

strengths - it was very important for us 

to hold our own positions. My father said 

to me once, “if it does not work for you, 

don’t work for it”! 

My other three tips for a successful 

business would be: First, find a niche 

in the market and own it. The second 

would be quality – without high 

standards we would not have the 

reputation that we enjoy today. Thirdly, 

have some fun! Remember, you work to 

live not live to work! 

What is it you think that makes D&F 

and British made products so attractive 

to overseas consumers? Is it more than 

just build quality? 

We pride ourselves on our quality 

and we employ tools, traditions and 

techniques passed from one generation 

to the next. We are masters in the art of 

design and manufacture and we employ 

genuinely specialist craftspeople. Many 

specialise in the individual stages of the 

jewellery process – so every customer 

can be assured our pieces are original, 

carefully executed and beautifully 

delivered. We also offer a diverse range 

and guarantee the quality across it. This, 

combined with our unique heritage, 

personality and passion makes Deakin 

& Francis an appealing choice for 

customers worldwide. 

You recently supported the ‘Kingsman’ 

film, dressing their agent in D&F 

cufflinks. Did you get a sneaky cameo 

on set for that? 

I did offer myself for a cameo role in the 

new Kingsman film, they have not called 

me about it so far though! We provided 

an array of products for the first film. The 

D&F crested signet ring was seen being 

fitted in the final dressing up scene. 

In fact when we worked with them a 

second time I did offer them the use of 

our workshops in Birmingham – it would 

make for a very cool undercover working 

lab for spy gadgets! 

Any thoughts on what to be buying as 

cufflinks from D&F right now for the 

ultimate in conversation making? 

If you are looking for a conversation 

starter, we certainly have plenty of 

quirky pieces. Our hairy cufflinks, for 

example, are certainly popular and are 

sure to make heads turn! These are 

sterling silver Viking cufflinks with black 

helmets, ruby eyes and furry beards. 

Or, the mechanical owls spring to mind. 

These took three years to perfect – not 

least because they feature 22 moving 

components! If you gently push on his 

feet you can watch as his eyes roll in 

surprise, while his eyebrows rise and his 

wings open – they are beautiful. No one 

believed they could be made! 

We also have styles from classic and 

sophisticated to the eclectic and quirky 

and all of our cufflinks have been 

designed to inspire, amaze and astonish. 

Any upcoming developments you can 

share for 2017? 

230 years is a massive achievement 

for any company and we have 

been delighted to celebrate this 

landmark occasion throughout 2016 

- with gratitude to everyone who has 

supported us. 

We are very much focused on the future. 

Not only are we constantly thinking of 

our next show-stopping designs, we 

are also excited to continue to grow the 

brand through new routes to market and 

through new marketing initiatives and 

continue to provide gentleman all over 

the world with the very finest cufflinks. 

2017 will have some exciting new 

additions for sure! 

“As a brand, we are 

proud to have customers 

spanning rock stars 

to royalty and have 

customers based all 

over the world. We 

are famous for our 

innovative designs that 

last and like to think of 

the brand as a guarantee 

of great quality and 

attention to detail.”

10 NEWS // SPONSORED BY RUBRIC LOIS KING SOLICITORS 

UNSUNG HERO 

AWARDS SEES 

CHIEF WHIP GAVIN 

WILLIAMSON MP 

HONOURED 

An awards scheme set up by Zoe Bennett (who 

made headlines following her successful battle 

against the Jamaica Tourist Board) took place last 

night and saw Gavin Williamson MP – Secretary to 

the Treasury and Chief Whip – thanked for his part in 

campaigning on her behalf. 

A large auction was held with items donated and signed by 

PM Theresa May, European Masters Athletics 

Championship Gold Winner Donald Brown, Gemport 

Jewellery and artist Sammie Edgar. In addition, Sally Arkley 

MBE of CWRT sponsored the award ‘Best Business Start- 

Up’ category, and Justine Williamson MBE sponsored the 

‘Unsung Hero award’ and also conducted interviews on the 

red carpet. 

The awards were able to come to fruition due to the 

support from Paycare, a not-for-profit health cash plan 

provider based in Wolverhampton, who were the main 

sponsors and supported Zoe every step of the way. The fact 

that the awards were a public vote left it in the hands of the 

people to choose their own unsung heroes. Independent accounts 

firm The Accountancy Firm based in Wolverhampton 

handled all monies to highlight the 

transparency of the awards. 

Gavin Williamson MP explained: “I am delighted to have been 

involved in this fantastic event, The awards show just how 

lucky we are to have so many truly amazing people in the 

West Midlands. I’m immensely proud of the work that volunteers 

do across the region to support the most vulnerable 

in society. Huge congratulations to all of the winners and 

shortlisted individuals.” 

The MBCC Awards saw another winner in the form of In The 

City Magazines very own Head of Design; Jerome Beaumont. 

Jerome won the ‘Employee of the Year’ award. The team at 

In The City were ecstatic as Jerome is a formidable team 

player. Jerome graciously accepted the award in true Jerome 

style.

NEWS // SPONSORED BY RUBRIC LOIS KING SOLICITORS 

#ITCMAGUK COMPETITION 

11 

WIN 

START YOUR YEAR AS YOU MEAN TO 

GO ON WITH TWO PAIRS OF 

TICKETS TO TWO INSPIRING EVENTS 

AT THE PLOUGH 

The Plough on Harborne High Street has been busy planning a selection of inspiring events for 2017. From meringue 

masterclasses and whisky tasting to floristry workshops and wine pairing there’s something to whet everyone’s appetite. All 

of the events take place in the comfort of The Plough’s private rooms, Next Door. You could be the lucky winner of a pair of 

tickets for you and a guest to attend two inspiring events with the theme ‘Detox Versus Retox’ taking place in January 2017: 

DETOX: Detox and Hangover Cures 

Wednesday 11th January, from 7pm 

James Hardy, Founder of Livefit, nutritionist and habit change expert will demystify the science behind detoxing and 

hangover cures. This lively presentation will take in a demonstration of how to make tried and tested hangover cures, 

how to keep those new year’s resolutions (and the psychology behind why we break them) and the science behind 

detoxing – does it really work? 

Tickets for this event are normally £20 each 

RETOX: Introduction to Australasian Wines 

Tuesday 31st January, from 7pm 

James Thewlis, founder of Spit Wine and Spirit School, will take you on a journey around the vineyards of Australia 

and New Zealand taking in classic grape varieties, subtle pinot noir, big bold reds and aromatic whites. 

Tickets for this event are normally £25 

For further information about events at The Plough please see: 

www.theploughharborne.co.uk & www.spitwineschool.co.uk 

TO ENTER SIMPLY ANSWER THIS QUESTION: 

WHERE IS THE PLOUGH BASED? 

Please e-mail your answer to pressoffice@theploughharborne.co.uk 

Please note, this prize is non-transferable and must be redeemed on the dates 

stated above, 11th January 2017 and 31st January 2017, respectively. Competition 

end date is 30th December 2016, winner will be notified on 2nd January 2017. 

T&Cs apply. 


@ITCmagUK

SPOTLIGHT 

FASHION & 

LIFESTYLE 


TITOS LONDON 

WWW.TITOSLONDON.COM

14 FASHION & LIFESTYLE // SPONSORED BY TITOS LONDON 

Catriona 

The 

Couture 

Queen 

This month we are delighted to introduce our new 

fashion expert Catriona Hanly. London based Irish 

designer Catriona Hanly was born with a flair for 

design and a passion for fashion. Having studied 

her craft at Central St Martin’s in London and The Barbara 

Bourke College of Fashion in Dublin, her collections have 

made waves both in Ireland, the UK and the US. Catriona’s 

illustrious fashion career began over 20 years ago when she 

moved to New York City. She laid the first foundation stones 

of her brand with the sparkle of accessories. Catriona then 

went on to deliver interiors projects in leading hotels and 

private residences across the globe. A fashion collection 

was the next logical step for this talented designer and now 

with several exquisite collections of both jewellery and high 

fashion under her elegant belt - she has been noted as one 

to watch … This month Catriona gives us a fashion fix for the 

festive season 

‘Catriona Hanly Designs are available at 

www.catrionahanly.com and can be ordered 

made to measure just for you!’ 

info@catrionahanly.com | 07809253278 

Top 3 Accessory 

Trends 

This season’s accessory trends are sumptuous and if you 

have your finger on the fashion pulse, it is clear that this 

season it is time to dream a little bigger and 

sparkle a little brighter! 

Multilayering 

Metallic multilayered necklaces with two, three or even four 

tiers cascading down, full of charms and curiosities are 

divine. For the most delightful multilayered necklaces, the 

intricate pearly ones at Chanel are exquisite. 

Choker Challenge 

chokers are a great way to reboot your jewellery box. 

From chunky metallic glassy ones to delicate chains or get 

to grips with antique lace and statement velvet collars. 

Statement Pendants 

From large-scale twisted metallic pendants at Valentino to 

tiny fang ones at Trussardi, you can’t go wrong with a 

statement pendant. A fabulous pendant can bring an outfit 

from drab to fab in no time so bling it up this festive season!

Life is a gift, that’s why 

they call it the present! 

FASHION & LIFESTYLE // SPONSORED BY TITOS LONDON 

15 

For Him 

For the man that travels, a nice set of 

matching luggage would make a great 

Chistmas gift – and if he happens to 

travel to colder climates, then a luxurious 

dress coat in wool or shearling would be 

an appropriate gift. For smaller gifts, a 

super cute tweed bow tie is so endearing or 

check out Men’s fogless shower mirrors and 

men’s grooming kits. 

For Her 

Diamonds are always a girl’s best friend 

and what lady doesn’t light up at the 

sight of a little sparkle! This cute Gucci 

bag is on many Christmas wish lists 

with ladies promising to be both 

naughty and nice! For smaller gifts, 

a monthly subscription for Glossy 

Box is the gift that keeps on giving 

– literally! It shows up once a month for a 

whole year packed full of latest beauty goodies. 

Every girl would love a Spa at home so the fluffy 

bathrobe and luxurious Joe Malone Candle gift set 

is perfect if you want to pamper your princess! 

Finally, don’t despair if you are still scratching 

your head with only days to go, online 

shopping is only a click away with most major 

retailers offering gift wrapping, nominated day 

delivery or click & collect. Meaning you won’t 

have to brave the shops last minute. 

“Accessories are like vitamins 

to fashion, as such you should 

use them liberally” 

Sultry & Smoldering 

this season! 

Secrets to get the Smokey eye 

The smokey eye look remains a key trend to look 

glamorous and sultry for the festive season. But 

how can you get it right at home without looking 

like you've got Panda eyes? 

STEP 1: Start by prepping the eyes with primer and 

base powder- this will help the eye shadow go on 

more smoothly and evenly 

STEP 2: My secret tip is to ‘line up’ BEFORE 

applying eye shadow! Apply a thick coat of creamy 

black eyeliner pencil to the bottom and top lash 

lines and even the inner bottom lash line. You 

don’t have to be too precise because it will be 

covered by shadow. 

STEP 3: Blend: Cover the eyelid in your first shade, 

then apply the dark shade around the edges. An 

eye shadow brush with a point is perfect for the 

dark shade - aim the point of the brush into the 

outer corner of the eyelid and flick back over the 

eye socked in gentle sweeping motions. 

STEP 4: To complete the look, add a line of black 

liquid liner, 3 coats of black mascara and maybe 

some false lashes for a more dramatic look if you 

dare! 

Hats off to 

Festive Occasions 

The idea of a magical winter wonderland for a wedding or a flutter at the races on Boxing 

Day or a trip to the Olympia Horse Show is so very appealing! But winter occasions often 

present a chilly wardrobe conundrum! 

A key trend for Autumn Winter this year is heritage tweeds but for festive occasions, they 

have been given a high-fashion makeover with an explosion of colours and pastels. 

Purple Tweed Suit with Hat from Catriona Hanly 

Twill weave tweed jacket with velvet lapel | Twill weave Tweed pencil trouser with velvet 

side stripe. 

€499 (Jacket), €249 (Trousers) 

Organza long sleeve blouse with a bow €295 

Hat designed by Catriona Hanly and Created by Suzie Mahony: €450 

All available from www.catrionahanly.com 

Hats made to order and suit can be custom made


THE THREE 

WISE MEN 

BROUGHT 

ACCEPTANCE, 

PRESENCE 

AND LOVE. 

By Aamna Khokhar 

The lead up to 

the holiday 

season is an 

exciting time 

full of lots of 

cheer and 

sparkle. Yet it can also 

often be quite chaotic and 

overwhelming. We can 

find ourselves in a robotic 

state following idealised 

commercial standards to 

create the ‘perfect’ family 

celebration. Not only do 

we need to convince the 

people in the room we are 

having a grand time, we 

also need to be able to 

show it on social media! 

Expensive gifts for family 

and friends, decorations 

to dazzle even Grinch, a 

feast that would impress 

kings and the greatest 

entertainment for the 

list of guests meeting all their different 

preferences. Although the holiday season 

can bring a great deal of joy it can also 

bring with it unwanted stress. Let’s 

consider how to manage the holiday 

season so everyone is left wearing a silly 

hat and a smile! 

Plan ahead – It is wise to begin planning 

early, whether you have the mammoth 

task of hosting over the holiday period 

or if it’s just gifts that you need to buy, 

planning ahead can take out some 

of the stress and make the task more 

enjoyable. Be honest with yourself about 

what it is possible for you to do and 

what would be too much. In your plan 

include restorative activities for you and 

your loved ones too. Planning afternoons 

of relaxation where you can read, talk, 

take walks or have a much-needed lie 

in are just as important as the shopping 

or cooking. These activities keep us 

centred and grounded which can be 

very important during the festive period. 

Often we work ourselves too hard and 

then are unable to enjoy the festivities 

and are left feeling cranky. 

Please don’t try to be perfect – 

Fortunately you don’t have to create 

winter wonderland at home and you 

also don’t have to manage everything on 

your own. Consider where you might be 

able to use shortcuts and what is surplus 

to requirement. Once you have done 

that then ask for help. Holiday seasons 

are about togetherness and often a 

great way to make guests feel more at 

home is by including them in some of 

the preparations. Let them share in the 

creation of a wonderful festive period 

and then credit them with applaud. 

Rein in the costs – Holidays and 

celebrations should not just be about 

presents. If you’re feeling the pinch, 

discuss this openly with your family. The 

festive season is to demonstrate love and 

regard for one another and the pressure 

to go to extreme lengths to buy gifts 

should not be there. Maybe arrange a 

secret santa instead, also encourage 

making gifts for one another. There are 

lots of ways you could still have festive 

fun without needing to re-mortgage your 

homes. 

Give give give - A great tradition is to 

make giving a part of the holiday season 

allowing one to focus on others instead 

of our own wants. Consider those who 

are less fortunate and how it might be 

possible for you to support them. Is there 

an aged neighbour who is lonely? Do 

you know of children in other countries 

that would benefit from the money spent 

on over-gifting? Is there somewhere 

you could donate your time to support 

people locally? This is also a great 

lesson for young children to learn too, 

encouraging the real spirit of the holiday 

season to come through. 

Awkward interactions – we spend 

more time with people who might not 

normally see in such proximity or for 

prolonged long periods of time. If your 

parents are overbearing and siblings 

are passive-aggressive then you are not 

alone. In your mind’s eye look at them, 

consider them with all their qualities 

and flaws and then choose them to be 

your family and accept them just as they 

are. You might find they come across 

differently when you do that. 

If you do find yourself in a pickle, then 

laughter is often the best medicine and 

great at diffusing tense situations. If you 

find yourself in a bigger pickle then some 

well versed stock phrases might come in 

handy “lets discuss that another time”. 

What do we really need over the holiday 

season? Acceptance of one another as 

we are; being present to the company 

that we do have (not some ideal we are 

led to desire); and to love and be loved in 

whatever form that may appear. 

To contact Aamna for coaching please 

email on info@aamna.khokhar.com

Non-stop 

from 

Birmingham 

to India 

every day. 

Now that’s 

pukka. 

Or as we Brummies say: Bostin! 

Why not fly direct from our 

Balti Triangle to India’s Golden 

Triangle. Formed by three cities, 

Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, it’s one 

of the most popular tourist 

circuits in the world. 

Agra is home to the Taj Mahal, 

probably the most photographed 

monument on earth - and here 

it is again. Air India flies non-stop 

to Delhi and also to Amritsar. 

From Delhi you can get connecting 

flights to several other destinations 

including Mumbai, Goa and Kerala. 

So whether you’re going to visit 

relatives, attend a wedding or 

simply to soak up the sun, one 

thing’s for sure, you’re on your 

way to holiday nirvana.


Liberty Lounge: 

Award-Winning 

Hair Finnesse 

Owners Duo Damon & Donna 

Set in Grade II listed buildings (formally a copper 

factory) near Brindleyplace, Liberty Lounge 

encompasses all you would expect of a high end hair 

salon in the heart of the city. 

Damon and Donna, a husband and wife team are at the helm 

of Liberty Lounge. They met twenty-two years ago and 

shared the same vision in creating a unique boutique salon. 

Fourteen years ago they found the perfect place to realise 

their vision and have not looked back. The salon is set in 

beautiful surroundings, with decor designed by Damon and 

Donna that is a personal reflection of their style and elegance. 

Mixing contemporary furnishing whilst complimenting the 

historical features and integrity of the building. Their passion, 

integrity, warmth and professionalism is evident in all that they 

do - from the services they offer in the salon, to the way they 

engage with their staff and clients, the expert duo and their 

growing team know how to make everyone that steps through 

the door feel uniquely special. 

They offer all the services you would expect from a top 

Birmingham salon, including all the latest cutting and 

colouring techniques, hair extensions and wefts as well as 

the best treatments such as Fibreplex; a new rebuilding and 

protective system. Their service starts with the offer of a free 

consultation, which gives you the opportunity to get to know 

your stylist and gain their expert advice. So whether you 

have a specific style in mind, require a little inspiration or are 

seeking a completely new look their friendly team of experts 

work to understand your personality and lifestyle in order to 

express your individuality. 

They are most proud of their talented mix of top stylists who 

work as team, championing traditional skills whilst continually 

training in new techniques. A team who are award-winning in 

all aspects of hair care, they are accredited by Birmingham 

Manicurist Emily 

University and who offer a genuinely personal service. Two 

members of their team in particular are making waves in the 

industry; Sophie is an experienced Senior Stylist and has been 

with Liberty Lounge for six years. She has worked her way 

through the ranks and has a degree in hair colouring. Georgina 

is a new addition to the Liberty Lounge family, also a Senior 

Stylist (formally trained at Lisa Sheperd), she has six years 

experience and is qualified with a hair colouring degree. 

A taste of New York and much more... 

Liberty Lounge are the official UK stockists of a New York 

Jeweller designing bespoke pieces of jewellery made from 

leather and semi-precious stones. The jewellery is reasonably

FASHION & LIFESTYLE // SPONSORED BY TITOS LONDON 

19 

Senior Stylists Georgina & Sophie 

priced and is perfect for when you are looking to wear 

something different that no one else has. Jewellery is not the 

only thing they have on display, an array of scarves can also 

be purchased alongside American Crew hair and grooming 

products for the gentlemen, Ghd electricals, Moroccan oil and 

Schwartzkopf products. Staying true to their ethos is valuing 

their clients; there are a number of paintings exhibited on the 

walls that can be purchased, all created by a client and local 

artist. The paintings have proven popular; as each is sold, it is 

replaced with a new creation – adding a new dynamic to the 

decor of the salon. 

To showcase the talents of both Georgina and Sophie, and 

to welcome in the new year - Liberty Lounge are offering 

20% off a cut and colour with Sophie and Georgina to 

all new clients. The offer is from Tuesdays through to 

Fridays in January and February of 2017. Use the following 

Promotion Code: ITCLL to take advantage of this fantastic 

offer and start the New Year with a new you! (Promotion 

code must be quoted on booking, a free consultation is part 

of the offer as well as a skin test prior to booking). 

Tight on time? The new Liberty Lounge Express Service has 

you covered... 

Emily is the full time nail technician at Liberty Lounge; she 

offers a full range of services including luxury manicures 

and pedicures using C.N.D polish or Shellac. Need to get to 

an event straight after work, or are tight for time? book to 

experience their new Express Service with Sophie, Georgina 

and Emily. Be treated to your hair being blow dried or an up 

style, whilst Emily does your manicure or a Shellac at the same 

time – all in just under an hour. 

“As an independent boutique salon, service and 

quality of work is most important to us. Many of 

our clients have been loyal to us in those fourteen 

years and a lot beyond that, which we appreciate. 

Our promotional offer is our way of expanding our 

loyal clientele. We look forward to welcoming you 

to Liberty Lounge.” Damon, Donna and the team. 

Recruitment opportunities 

We are always seeking great local talent, 

if you are interested in working with us, contact us via 

email: libertyloungehair@hotmail.co.uk.

SPOTLIGHT 

FOOD & DRINK 


HEINEKEN 

WWW.HEINEKEN.COM

22 FOOD & DRINK // SPONSORED BY HEINEKEN 

THE YARD 

OPENS AT 

THE HIGH FIELD

FOOD & DRINK // SPONSORED BY HEINEKEN 

23 

A COOL SPOT FOR 

WINTER DRINKS 

WITH FRIENDS 

It may be cold outside but you don't need to stay inside to enjoy a drink 

or two with your friends this winter. Now, at The High Field you can while 

away your days and nights in The Yard, a cool new outside space that's 

brought a cosy winter terrace to this leafy corner of Edgbaston. 

Tucked inside its striking canvas roof, The Yard glows by day and 

positively sparkles by night. It's perfect for catching up with friends over 

a glass of wine from the pub's great new wine list or toasting a special 

occasion with a bottle of fizz. Why not have a cocktail mixed for you, warm 

up over a hot chocolate with your favourite shot thrown in or sip on one of 

the pub's new bourbons, the ideal antidote to winter. 

Pop over with friends at the weekend or colleagues after work and find 

everything you need for a great time out at The Yard, with plenty of space to 

sit, stand, hang out and chat. It's nice and toasty inside, with heaters to fend 

off those sub zero temperatures, and fleecy blankets to snuggle under. 

And of course the really good news is that there's a fab new bar here too; 

the Peroni Retro Rocket has landed in The Yard to serve up your favourite 

beverages. It's a stunning American style aluminium trailer that's filled with 

chilled beers and much more, to save all those long trips to the bar. Whilst 

you're drinking, you can order a tasty deli board piled high with a selection of 

fantastic charcuterie, cheese or veggie nibbles. 

You can even book The Yard for your party or get-together any Friday or 

Saturday night during December and The High Field will lay on your own bar 

and server to ensure the night's a big success. Just come and talk to us about 

what you have in mind. 

The Yard is open every day from the beginning of December, while the Peroni 

Retro Rocket opens every weekend. 

Find them at The High Field, 

22 Highfield Road, Edgbaston, B15 3DP. 

Tel: 0121 227 7068. 

www.highfieldedgbaston.co.uk 

Highfield@peachpubs.com 

@_thehighfield 

www.facebook.com 

TheHighFieldEdgbaston

PLACES ARE NOW LIMITED

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more info:0121 643 2233 

WWW.THECHAMELEONBHAM.CO.UK 

RESERVATIONS@THECHAMELEONBHAM.COM 

1 Victoria Square, Hill St, Birmingham, B1 1BD


'Tis the season to be indulgent... 

The count-down to Christmas has begun, leave the diets until January and indulge in our guide to the most decadent 

Christmas hampers for 2016 - all packaged up and ready to be delivered directly to your front door. 

Harvey Nichols The Crowd Pleaser: £300, Harvey Nichols 

The Crowd Pleaser lives up to its name, Harvey Nichols’ have gone all out in 

creating a smart black hamper that has the contents to match. The crowd 

pleaser is packed with indulgent treats that the entire family will enjoy - from 

green olives with garlic, roasted nuts, Fine Cheese Co crackers and a generous 

box of chocolates for the adults, to chocolate coins, hot chocolate and toffee 

for the children. For an evening soirée there is an array of alcohol which 

includes Mozart chocolate liqueur, vintage port, damson gin, Champagne, 

Chablis and a Portuguese red. There’s every condiment you could need for your 

Christmas meal too with brandy butter, cranberry sauce, chutney, mustard, as 

well as Christmas pudding and panettone. In addition, they have thought of 

entertainment with the inclusion of a Charades box. In all the Crowd Pleaser does 

exactly what is says. 

Fortnum & Mason St Nicholas Hamper: £300, Fortnum & Mason 

This hamper is everything you would expect from Fortnum and Mason. Starting 

with the Louis Roederer Champagne you know Christmas is going to be a 

treat of the senses. The hamper includes a buck’s fizz marmalade, strawberry 

preserve and other decadent treats such as marmalade vodka butter, perfect 

for your Christmas breakfast. For those with a sweet tooth, this hamper has 

you covered with treats such as a cognac and cranberry cake, mincemeat 

shortbread, pink Marc de Champagne truffles, rose and lemon Turkish Delight 

and to die for dark Chocolossus biscuits. They have thought of everything 

including a bottle of Sancerre to accompany your turkey meal and cream sherry 

for the Christmas pudding. 

Forman & Field Christmas Essentials Hamper: £134.95, Forman & Field 

Forman & Field’s essential hamper is a more affordable but they have not 

skimped on quality. Their smoked salmon is absolutely divine and your 

cheeseboard will be the talk of your Christmas meal with the Cropwell Bishop 

Stilton. The hamper includes some Christmas classics too, our favourite being 

huge Christmas pudding, enough to feed the family and maybe have seconds! 

The Artisan du Chocolat truffles are an ideal after dinner treat that will be the 

perfect end to your Christmas meal. 

Abel & Cole The Really Big Christmas Hamper: £175, Abel & Cole 

Abel & Cole have gone all out with The Really Big Christmas Hamper, for those 

who are advocates of organic food you will love this hamper. The hamper 

includes delicious meats such as sliced ham and decadent truffled salami, the 

smoked salmon is simply beautiful. For those who prefer a savoury ending to 

your meal, you are in for a treat with generous portions of Godminster vintage 

cheddar, Cropwell Bishop blue stilton, chutney, oatcakes and basil and garlic 

olives. There is the option for a sweeter ending to your meal with Christmas 

pudding, mince pies, brandy cream, shortbread stars and delectable Booja 

Booja truffles. Last but not least the hamper includes tastefully selected wines 

– Chablis and Crozes-Hermitage, the perfect accompaniment to a wonderfully 

indulgent m


GET THAT GLOW! 

BY HUMA 

With the harsh winter winds attacking our face, it’s easy for our skin to look dull and damaged. The New Year brings in new 

resolutions that we swear we will keep. From the regular ‘get in shape’ to ‘learning a new skill’; if there’s one resolution you 

should follow to benefit you for the rest of your life, it’s this right here! Simple dietary changes can make your skin shine bright 

and glow, even on the dullest days. Add some of these foods to your daily meals and see the affects it has on your skin. 

Sprinkle some of these 

over a delicious salad! 

Each kernel is rich in 

Vitamin E, Zinc and 

Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, 

which promote clean and 

clear skin. 

With Skin clearing 

oxidants and packed 

full of fiber, dark berries 

are great for your skin 

and body to detox. They 

also help to stop hunger 

pangs, so reach for these 

when you’re feeling 

puckish. 

Peppermint tea is a 

winter favourite, but 

there is a reason we 

adore it so much. It’s 

calming properties help 

us to relieve stress, which 

is a large trigger to acne 

prone skin. It also clears 

your sinuses and leaves 

you feeling clear and 

relaxed. 

Fish such as Mackerel and 

Salmon are full of EPA 

and DHA, which in simple 

terms combat’s acne 

inflammation. They’re also 

high in protein, which can 

help speed up the skins 

natural healing process. 

GET YOU GREEN! 

BY HUMA 

We’ve all been told from a young age to eat our 

greens, but it’s only now I’m older I can see the 

benefits of listening to that advice. Broccoli is one of 

my favourite vegetables and a staple to my Sunday 

roasts, but not only are they wonderful to eat, they 

are also full of antioxidants such as Vitamin A, B, C, E 

and K to give your skin a glow. 

The omega 3 fatty acids, Calcium and Folate all 

support the healing process, which is especially great 

when we clog our pores with heavy makeup. Eat 

them raw or slightly steamed with a crunch to get 

the most out of these florets.

FOOD & DRINK // SPONSORED BY HEINEKEN 

29 

OVEN POACHED SALMON 

WITH CHERRY TOMATOES 

AND BROCCOLI 

This low carb meal is great for your skin 

and so simple to make! 

INGREDIENTS: 

Tin Foil 

Salmon 

Broccoli 

Cherry Tomatoes 

Salt and Pepper 

Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

METHOD: 

1. Place the Cherry tomatoes and Broccoli 

florets on a large open sheet of foil. 

2. Place your Salmon on top (skin side up) and 

drizzle with Olive Oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper 

on both the salmon and vegetables. 

3. Tightly wrap up the foil to create a parcel. 

Place these on an ovenproof dish for 20-25 

mins until soft and flakey. 

4. Remove from foil and onto a plate to enjoy. 

BY HUMA 

N E W Y E A R S E V E 

F E A S T 

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SPOTLIGHT 

ENTERTAINMENT 


NUVO BAR 

WWW.NUVOBAR.COMW

32 ENTERTAINMENT // SPONSORED BY NUVO BAR 

Curtis Young - Son of Dr Dre 

Product of His DNA: 

Interview with Curtis 

Young 

Hip-Hop artist Curtis Young might not be a 

household name just yet, but 2017 might just 

be his year. With ambitious plans for an album 

in 2017 and tie-in products, as well as some lucrative 

musical collaborations outside of his solo career, 

Curtis is working hard to take his moment in the sun. 

He’s not having much luck chasing the sun currently 

though, braving the UK November chill to work on a 

collaborative project with Bollywood sensation Rameet. 

Sat in the elegant Bacaba restaurant in Dudley, one 

thing becomes very apparent as soon as you speak to 

Mr. Young; he’s not in this game for the glamour of the 

lifestyle, or just to cash in. 

“Rap right now is where people, a lot of people, are 

putting out the wrong message. When I was growing 

up, there was Public Enemy, Pac, Biggie… They said 

something with their music. A lot of cats these days 

aren’t saying anything with their music. They’re talking 

about sleeping with this person, that person… how 

much money they’ve got. It’s just the same old, same 

old. There’s no positive content in it, no storytelling. I 

want to take it back to the storytelling. If that’s not in 

it, my heart’s not in it, period. I respect the greats, the 

veterans.” 

Curtis knows plenty about the history of Rap, having 

been raised on the West Coast of the USA in legendary 

Hip-Hop hub Compton. That Compton connection 

stretches much deeper than just living there though; 

Curtis is also the son of legendary Rap icon Dr. Dre. “I 

had a cool crazy upbringing and later on through my 

life I found out who my father was. I found out during 

an argument and it really just stunned me; I was just 

twelve years old. After finding that out it became one of 

those things where I had to fill a void in my life, I really 

just wanted to meet him.” 

“We took a DNA test and from there we met. It was 

just like looking in a mirror, two peas in a pod, just 

alike. You could just feel the chemistry, feeling like

ENTERTAINMENT // SPONSORED BY NUVO BAR 

33 

“wow, this is really something, unimaginable”. Being 

the son of somebody famous, it doesn’t matter who it 

is – he or she – you don’t know it growing up, you find 

it out later. Thinking “wow, this is my dad? This is in my 

blood?” Later, after doing music growing up through 

my childhood I found out that the apple doesn’t fall 

too far from the tree! So I started working on my music 

and becoming an entrepreneur instead of working for 

somebody else. I created my own name and my own 

companies, a corporation with lots of subsidiaries 

underneath it, building my empire since then. 

I was always into music but in that moment when I 

found out who my dad was, it was like “man, this is 

what I want to do!”. From there I started focusing, and I 

wanted people to know me for me. I had to go through 

life’s journey to figure out who I was and not just the 

son of Dr. Dre. It was about “Who was Curtis Young?” 

Of course, even with all of these projects to help build 

his own empire, Curtis acknowledges that it was difficult 

to step outside of his father’s shadow and forge an 

identity of his own. “I don’t walk in his shadow. I walk 

in my own high and that gives me the air I breathe. 

Once I reached that understanding, I understood that I 

could do anything and that’s what it was for me. I know 

people respect him for who he is, and I respect him for 

what he’s put in the game, but I have my own calling.” 

That calling has seen Curtis not only launch a music 

career, but set up a production company in Forever 

Young Entertainment, a clothing line in Forever Young 

clothing, an advocacy group called Son of Chronic, 

which campaigns for the use of medicinal marijuana, 

and a foundation which works to help off-set the cost of 

medical care for veterans (Forever Young Foundation). 

All of this contributes to the sense that Curtis is 

determined to be his own man, with his own 

calling. 

“I want to help 

the world, in all 

kinds of different 

ways.” 

With my music I want to glorify just real, feel-good 

music which is strong and sexy; something to have fun 

with, not degrading music. I want to have something 

which creates good vibes”. Good vibes are exactly 

what he hopes to create on this current project. Though 

xenophobia and tension may currently be hot-button 

topics, Curtis sees his music as a way of overcoming 

tensions and combining cultures. “We’ve got this track 

coming out and it’s gonna hit the scene, it’s gonna take 

it by storm. It’s good and I like the message in it, it’s 

about peace and love.” 

This collaborative track isn’t the only thing that Curtis 

has coming out, however. “My album is called “Product 

of My DNA”. It’s what I want the world to know me 

as, despite all the ups and downs, stepping out of 

that shadow. It’s like my own personal biography. It’s 

personal, it’s something that a lot of people don’t know 

about me. I want people to understand that I’m happy 

to still be here and spread a positive message, let my 

album speak and embrace their ears and mesmerise 

with real music. It’ll be out next year”. 

“The whole album is based on my life, what happened 

to me in the 80s right the way through to now; each 

year something happened. A lot of people aren’t making 

music like this, they just want to make songs for people, 

and more power to them, but I respect things that have 

substance too. It’s a precious story, it’s genuine”. 

Ask him about what helps get him through the dark 

times and he is candid and open; 

“Just being able to wake up. I’m not living in a 

city full of crime any more. My creator, that’s 

what drives me most. That and my family – it 

motivates me, puts a smile on my face. My 

number one rock and her precious smile every 

day. And my partner, Ms. Nessa Young, she 

keeps me motivated daily. We’re all going 

through ups and downs. Someday, things are 

gonna be better. Just stay in the moment, don’t 

think about the future. Because, the future isn’t 

something you can do anything about anyway. 

Every day can be a struggle but it depends on 

what moments you are in.” 

With plans for not just an album, but also a 

possible book and movie tie-in, you can be sure 

that you’ll be hearing plenty more from Curtis 

Young. First an album, then a book, a movie and 

then, the world. 

Article by Rich Hobson 

New York Group Public Enemy formed in 1982 

Special thanks to: 

U.K. Premiere PR and Marketing

34 ENTERTAINMENT // SPONSORED BY TOWN & COUNTRY INNS PLC 

PASSIONS SHARED AT A CELEBRATION OF A CITY 

Wednesday, 9th November saw a Celebration of 

the City and its’ inspirational people. The ‘In The 

Street’ themed event was held at Faraday Wharf. 

Organised by Birmingham We Are with support from In the 

City Magazine, Daniel Sturley, Precision Imaging and Andre 

Soul. 

The ‘invite only’ event was attended by the Lord Mayor 

and other notable guests including Mark Rogers, CEO, 

Birmingham City Council. The entire event centred round 

celebrating Birmingham, and the talent that resides within 

our great city. The host for the evening was the talented 

Andre soul, who in typical Soul style had guests engaged 

from the get go. Throughout the evening entertainment 

was provided by vocalists, poets, and story-tellers; including 

Birmingham talent Dee Ajayi as well as rapper and poet 

Casey Bailey (who performed before his TEDx appearance 

in London). Birmingham artist ‘Sketch’ showcased his sketch 

of Birmingham city - one of the largest sketches ever to be 

undertaken of its kind. Refreshments included Birmingham 

brewed beer which was available whilst guests enjoyed a 

relaxed couple of hours in some great Birmingham company. 

The event also announced the release of the Birmingham 

Gems 2017 charity calendar. As part of the Celebration of a 

City, ‘Birmingham We Are’ have produced a BirminghamGems 

calendar for charity. The chosen charities will be supported 

by all profits from the proceeds are St Basils, Barnardos and 

QEHB. The aim of the calendar is to generate over £20,000 

for the charities and raise the profile of Birmingham. 

Lord Mayor Signs 4 year Contract 

with Birmingham Boy band 

Tackling Hair Loss 

As a certified LA BIOSTHETIQUE salon, REGEN HAIR & SCALP CLINIC truly understands 

the importance of effective hair and scalp care. 

Clinic owner, Cheryl has adopted a holistic approach to hair loss where she focuses on the 

history of the individual includingphysical, emotional and social circumstances. 

Each consultation consists of an analysis of the hair, which enables Cheryl to show you 

using a microscope, areas of growth as well as problem areas, Using this analysis she is 

able to develop a personalised programme which not only includes products, but also 

factors in your lifestyle and work commitments. 

To book your bespoke consultation contact us on 

07585 660 932 | 0121 291 1966 

Regen Hair & Scalp Clinic 

35 Bentley Road, Birmingham, B36 0ES 

www.regenhairandscalp.com 

Cheryl@regenhairandscalp.co.uk 

In association with 

www.biosthetique.co.uk 

LA BIOSTHETIQUE UK, Unit 2, Triangle Business Park, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP22 5BL

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36 ENTERTAINMENT // SPONSORED BY TOWN & COUNTRY INNS PLC 

West Midlands Music 

Scene Set To Blossom 

With The Magic Garden 

Birmingham based promoters Baddies Boogie have 

joined forces with Wolverhampton producer Gavin 

Monaghan to create ‘The Magic Garden’, a live 

music venture which launched on Friday 11th November 

2016. Held at The Rainbow Cellar, in Digbeth, the event 

brought together acts both local and national for a huge 

celebration of music and arts. Compered by comedian 

Jay Handley, the event saw five bands (Dirty Jane, The 

Blinders, The Black Delta Movement, Robert Craig Oulton 

and Spilt Milk Society) perform to a filled venue. 

The latest venture by independent music promoters 

Baddies Boogie (run by brothers Tom and James 

Amphlett, formerly of local Indie band The Dakota 

Beats), The Magic Garden is set to be a quarterly live arts 

event which will not only help champion homegrown 

talent, but potentially build networks between local 

writers, artists, producers and bands. The event is also 

organised by producer Gavin Monaghan (The Twang, 

Editors, Ocean Colour Scene), who works at legendary 

local studios “The Magic Garden” (from which the event 

takes its name). Gavin recently set up his own record 

label, Magic Garden Vinyl, whose first signing is Dirty 

Jane (headliners of the very first Magic Garden event). 

More than just another live music showcase, The Magic 

Garden is set to also feature live comedians and will act 

as a networking event for local writers, photographers, 

PR Agents, Magazines and music lovers alike. 

The second Magic Garden event is due to take place on 

Friday 11th February, featuring the bands Pollen, Methods, 

The Surrenders, Paper Buoys and Junior Weeb. The event 

will also feature live comedy. For its second incarnation, 

The Magic Garden will move to Mama Roux, also in 

Digbeth, due to refurbishment of The Rainbow Venues. 

Tickets for the event are £3.50 in advance (from the Dice. 

FM app), £6 on the door.

BOTTOMLESS 

PROSECCO 

L I F T Y O U R J A N U A R Y B L U E S 

WEDNESDAY - THURSDAY ALL NIGHT 

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WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE SERVICE AT ANY GIVEN MOMENT - MINIMUM GROUP OF 4

SPOTLIGHT 

ART & 

CULTURE 


BRIGHTLET 

WWW.BRIGHTLET.COM

40 ART & CULTURE // SPONSORED BY BRIGHTLET 

TOP CONTEMPORARY 

ART COMES TO 

BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM 

& ART GALLERY 

THIS MONTH 

• Free exhibition showcasing world 

class modern art from the Arts Council 

Collection comes to Birmingham Museum 

& Art Gallery on Saturday 26th November 

• Visitors will get the chance to see works 

by acclaimed British artists including 

Roger Hiorns, Jacob Epstein and Henry 

Moore 

• Birmingham to become focus of 

contemporary art shows drawn from the 

Arts Council Collection for the next three 

years as part of the National Partnership 

Programme 

Visitors to Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery 

(BMAG) will be given an insight into what 

might happen after hours when artworks 

are left alone, as an exhibition of world class 

modern and contemporary British art opened at the 

Gas Hall in November. 

Curated by leading British artist, Ryan Gander, the 

major new exhibition, Night in the Museum, opened 

on Saturday 26th November and will run until 12th 

February 2017, giving visitors a unique view of the 

Arts Council Collection in its 70th anniversary year. 

The Arts Council Collection includes nearly 8,000 

works of British art in a range of media. The majority of 

these were acquired from early career UK-based artists over 

the past 70 years. 

Night in the Museum sees Ryan Gander step into the role of 

curator and the show gives visitors the opportunity to view 

this internationally significant Collection through the eyes of 

one of the country’s most important artists. 

Gander has displayed figurative sculptures caught in the 

act of gazing at artworks featuring the colour blue, a colour 

that represents abstract ideas often found in modern and 

contemporary art for the artist. The intriguing pairings show 

figurative works by artists such as Henry Moore and Kerry 

Stewart interacting with artworks by artists such as Liam 

Gillick and Birmingham-born artist Roger Hiorns. 

The Arts Council Collection is the UK's most widely 

seen collection of modern and contemporary art and 

the exhibition marks the start of a three-year National 

Parternship Programme which will see Birmingham 

Museums Trust bring the collection to a wider audience in 

the city. Birmingham Museums is one of only four partner 

venues chosen by Arts Council Collection, alongside The 

Walker Art Gallery, National Museums Liverpool; Towner Art 

Gallery, Eastbourne; and Yorkshire Sculpture Park. 

Ryan Gander, who has previously taught in Birmingham 

and shown work at the Ikon Gallery in 2008, is proud to 

be bringing the show to the city where it will be expanded 

with the addition of iconic pieces from the Birmingham 

Museum’s vast collection. These artworks include a 

reconstruction of Jacob Epstein’s famous ‘Rock Drill’, 

artworks by Sean Scully and Patrick Caulfield and 

‘Dancer at Rest’, an original bronze ballerina by Edgar 

Degas on 

long-term loan. 

Ryan Gander said: “I love Birmingham, it's a great 

art city, centred on the periphery, full of energy and 

drive. We have a long relationship, having taught at 

Bournville and shown at Ikon, so it's a great privilege 

for me to have the opportunity to bring this Arts 

Council Collection Show, Night in the Museum, to Gas 

Hall.” 

A new commission for the Arts Council Collection by 

Ryan Gander, As old as time itself, slept alone (2016), 

will also be on display. The piece is the latest in an 

ongoing series in which Gander re-imagines Edgar 

Degas’ famous work The Little Fourteen-Year-Old 

Dancer (1880-81) in different scenarios as if she is 

wandering around the museum. 

Dr Ellen McAdam, Director of Birmingham Museums 

Trust, said: “Night in the museum marks the 

beginning of our major new programme of modern 

and contemporary art exhibitions, bringing the Arts 

Council’s fabulous collection to Birmingham’s young 

and diverse audiences. Ryan Gander has curated 

the first of these exhibitions, creating inventive 

pairings and juxtapositions between objects from 

the city’s collection as well as the Arts Council’s. We 

hope these unexpected perspectives will attract and 

entertain new as well as regular visitors to this Gas 

Hall show.”

ART & CULTURE // SPONSORED BY BRIGHTLET 

41 

Books without Borders: 

Ulrich Peltzer & Helen 

Cross Birmingham event 

There are few things better than curling up with a great 

book during the colder months. The perfect season to be 

a bookworm, this winter acclaimed German author Ulrich 

Peltzer will be offering an early Christmas present as he visits 

Birmingham on December 7th for a special live event. 

Held at Waterstones in Birmingham city centre, the event will 

see Ulrich Peltzer participate in a live conversation with local 

author Helen Cross about his first novel to be translated into 

English, “Part of the Solution”. Best known for the screenplay 

“The Lies of The Victor”, Peltzer is currently the “DAAD” 

writer-in-residence at Aston University, as part of the German 

Academic Exchange Service. Helen Cross is herself the author 

of four novels, starting with My Summer of Love, which was 

published in 2001 and has since been translated into German. 

Cross currently lives in Birmingham. 

This event is set to be a great way to not only introduce new 

readers to Peltzer’s works, but also further explore them as 

coded through the author himself, as he engages with Helen 

Cross. Among the topics they will discuss will be the difficulties 

in translating works into other languages, as both authors have 

experienced this (albeit from opposite ends). 

Appropriately, Peltzer will be in Birmingham at the height of 

the Frankfurt Christmas Market, which is itself celebrating 50 

years of the Frankfurt-Birmingham Partnership Agreement. 

Starting at 7pm, the event is free entry and tickets can be 

booked through Eventbrite. This event is supported by both 

Aston University and Writing West Midlands, an agency 

dedicated to developing writing talent within the West 

Midlands. 

A perfect way to broaden your horizons and explore new 

literature avenues (as well as support the local literature scene), 

this event will be ideal for grabbing a bit of culture whilst also 

exploring the Birmingham Frankfurt Market. 

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/in-conversation-withulrich-peltzer-tickets-29103338870

0844 870 0000 (24hr) 

Ticketing solutions 

Online box offices 

Event management 

24hr customer service 

On-site accreditation

SPOTLIGHT 

NIGHTLIFE 


THETICKETSELLERS 

WWW.THETICKETSELLERS.CO.UK

44 NIGHTLIFE // SPONSORED BY THE TICKETSELLERS 

Welcome back to the 

Nightlife section of 

In The City Magazine, 

presented by 

IT’S CHRISTMAS! I hope you are not already all 

Christmased out from all the adverts, having to listen 

to Christmas songs in the supermarkets throughout 

November, and especially the self checkout machines ‘Ho 

Ho Ho’-ing at you with every purchase. At least now that it 

is December, we can start on our advent calendars (trying 

to resist eating the whole thing on the 1st), our TVs will be 

taken up with all those excellent movies we only watch at 

Christmas time (even if Home Alone 2 may be slightly ruined 

now), and plan our festive events calendar culminating in 

New Year’s Eve! 

A quick throwback to November’s edition where we let 

you know TTS were the headline sponsors for Festival 

Congress at the Wales Millennium Centre. We had a great 

time catching up on the latest industry news and techniques, 

and introducing some of our own. Our new ring scanners (a 

small scanner that can be place on your finger) drew a lot of 

attention from event promoters, as it demonstrated that one 

person can actually scan and wristband at the same time. 

In this month’s edition of Nightlife, we have mixed things up 

a little by adding a section to advise you on the events next 

year that would be excellent Christmas gifts or that you can 

treat yourself with using that Christmas money. We have 

also dedicated a section to the New Year’s Eve events across 

the West Midlands to help you welcome the new year in 

style! However, make sure to check out our usual listings as 

there are plenty of events throughout December to get you 

through the extended family time and to make the most of 

the bank holidays. 

From everyone at TTS, have an excellent Christmas and 

amazing New Year! 

Backstage 

For this month’s Nightlife we go backstage with DJ, 

Radio Presenter and Producer, Davey Ecko. He’s also the 

mastermind behind; Wide Awake Club , Decadence, Heroes 

Of House, 1 Night Stand, Bassline Gathering, oh and he runs a 

vape shop too! 

Davey has been running his ticketing though TheTicketSellers 

for many years and we thought it was time to catch up 

ahead of his Midlands Bassline Gathering - Boxing Day 

Special. 

When did it start and how has it grown/changed? 

It was an idea originally talked about in the later part of 

2015, we wanted everyone in the Birmingham scene to 

come together and work on a big project, hence the term 

‘gathering’ used in the event name. It’s grown massively 

within its first year and while we expected the rave to be 

filled with 30+ year old adults it’s been quite the opposite 

with a main age group of 18-25 filling the dancefloor, 

showing us that there’s a lot of this music even after all these 

years. 

When did you start putting on events? 

I put my first ever event on 20 years ago, at The Steering 

Wheel on a Wednesday night. 

What made you decide to be involved in putting on events? 

I just wanted to go out and party all the time, I was out 

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Tuesdays with 

the odd trip out on Wednesdays to Decadence at Bakers so 

it made sense to put something on myself - it was another 

night out. 

How did you come up with the idea for your events? 

Always with a passion for the music and wanting to do 

something different to what I’d seen previously. 

What’s your favourite event (not your own)? 

Currently in Brum I’d say MADE, simply because of how large 

the event is and how many people it brings together. Overall 

from over the years, weekly Sundays at Sundissential at Pulse 

was the one that really stands out. 

What was the first event you ever attended? 

S.L.A.G at The Steering Wheel, it changed my life forever. 

Which events have/do inspire you? 

I have to mention S.L.A.G again here, it was always full of 

energy and brilliant characters such as Pat & Twiggy. 

(Note from TTS: The club’s ethos captured the tolerant 

mood of the time in club land, with straight and gay mixing 

harmoniously.)

NIGHTLIFE // SPONSORED BY THE TICKETSELLERS 

45 

What’s your number 1 tip for enjoying your event? 

Be prepared to RAVE, everyone’s on a ‘mad for it’ vibe! 

What are your 3 must have event promoter essentials? 

These days: Facebook for sure, having the right team 

around you is also key to being successful, and keeping 

your feet on the ground at all times. 

What’s the best bit of tech you use at your event? 

It’s obviously TheTicketSellers app LOL 

(Note from TTS: our iphone app ‘Box Office’ allows 

promoters to view their doorlists, receive sales updates, 

and check customers into their events. Thanks for the 

shout out Davey!) 

What makes your event stand out from all the rest? 

If you could have anyone headline your event who would 

you choose (past or present)? 

For Midlands Bassline Gathering, it would have to be the 

King of the decks - DJ EZ. 

What is the craziest request you’ve had from an artist? 

I don’t think I’d be allowed to write that down on here 

without causing some major grief LOL 

If you weren’t putting on events, what would you be 

doing? 

We’ve brought people back out in the clubs, listening to a 

music that many have tried to smudge and blacken over 

the years. 

Where would we find you at the peak time of your event? 

In the front of the club making sure everything is running 

to plan. 

Finally - Most memorable backstage story? 

I struggle to remember anything past 11pm due to copious 

amounts of brandy that are forced upon me. 

Running my vape shop, making music or just bumming out 

for a year or two. 

BRING YOUR 

DUCKLINGS TO 

SANTA’S GROTTO AT 

INTU MERRY HILL 

Visit Birmingham’s very own magical corner of 

Lapland and be greeted by one of Santa’s elves on 

arrival, where you will be inducted into the secret 

reindeer clan and given your very own reindeer 

antler and the all-important passport containing the 

magical Christmas chant. 

Once inside the reindeer stables you will be treated 

to an entertaining and magical performance from 

two of Santa’s very special elves, Trixie and Tweedy, 

together with their baby Reindeer, Skidda. 

Keep an eye out for the magic North Pole though 

and if you see the magic lights begin to dwindle, 

tell the elves as they’ll need your help to restore the 

Christmas magic. 

Look out too, for extra elf and reindeer fun all around 

you; especially those reindeer - wind bubbles! 

The elves aren’t the only ones with magic in their 

fingertips this year either, even Santa has a trick up 

his sleeve for each child, resulting in a magic token 

for the free, exciting gift at the end of your visit.


Ideas for Christmas Gifts 

Swingamajig Festival 

Sunday 30th - Monday 1st May 

Tickets from £21.40 

Frightened Rabbit 

Thursday 1st December 

7pm - 11pm 

O2 Institute3, Birmingham 

From £17.45 

Birmingham Pride 

Saturday 27th - Sunday 28th May 

Early Buys available from £21.75 

Eden Festival 

Thursday 8th - Sunday 11th June 


Secret Garden Party 

Thursday 20th - Sunday 23rd July 

Tickets from £197 

The Office Xmas Party 

Thursday 1st December 

7pm - 1am 

The Night Owl, Birmingham 

From £5.50 

Eastside present [spunge] 

Friday 2nd December 

6:30pm - 10pm 

O2 Academy 3, Birmingham 

From £10.15 

Nozstock The Hidden Valley 

Friday 21st - Sunday 23rd July 


Port Eliot Festival 

Thursday 27th - Sunday 30th July 

Tier 3 tickets available at £172.50 

Big Family Festival 

Friday 28th - Sunday 30th July 

Weekend Adult ticket at £38.50 

Starry Skies 

Wednesday 2nd - Sunday 6th 

August 


Boomtown Fair 

Chapter Nine - Behind the Mask 

Thursday 10th- Monday 14th 

August 

Tier 3 tickets available at £202 

Lakefest 


August 

Early bird tickets available from 

£89 

Farmer Phil’s Festival 

Friday 11th - Sunday 13th August 

Xmas Early Bird ticket at £78.75 

Just So Festival 

Friday 18th - Sunday 20th August 

Adult Weekend tickets from 

£138.70 

Shambala Festival 


August 


Solihull Summer Fest 

Saturday 26th - Sunday 27th 

August 

Early Bird day and weekend tickets 

available 

Listings 

2016 Pleasure Ladies Boys 

Charity Event 


7pm - 11:30pm 

E57 Social Club, Kings Health 

From £11 

2016 UK Pleasure Boys 

Evolution Tour 


7pm - 11:30pm 

JJ’s Coventry 

From £13.50 

Cherry Reds Comedy 


7:30pm - 11pm 

Cherry Reds, Birmingham 

From £5.50 

Pavillion 


7:45pm - 11pm 

Blue Orange Theatre, Jewellery 

Quarter 

From £13.40 for non-members 

The (not so) Acoustic Who 


8pm - 12:30am 

Arches Venue, Coventry 

From £6.50 

Splosh! 


9pm - 2am 

Walsall Wood Football Club 

From £6.50 

Come Together - A night of 

Indie, 60’s and Britpop 


9pm - 3am 


From £5 

A’muse 


10pm - 2am 

The Vaults, Birmingham 

From £9 

Dubcherry (live) 

Saturday 3rd December 

7:30pm - 10:30pm 


From £5 

Nigel Price Organ Trio + Jack 

Kinsella Trio 


7:45pm - 11pm 

The Red Lion, Jewellery Quarter 

From £13.40 for non- members 

Straighten Out 


8pm - 12:30am 


From £11 

Dig? 


9pm - 4am 


From £5 

Dream House 


9pm - 6am 

Boxxed Warehouse, Digbeth 

From £11 

Fabio & Grooverider (feat MC 

Felon) 


10pm - 2am 

The Dark Horse, Moseley 

From £16.50 

Sylvia Tella & Friends Live 


10pm - 4am 

The iClub, Nottingham 

From £16.50 

DJ Spind 30th Birthday Bash 


10pm - 4am 

Jamrock Cafe, Stoke On Trent 

From £5.50 

Decadence Radio - Christmas 

Showcase 


10pm - 5am 

Amusement 13, Birmingham 

From £9 

Finesse Christmas Season 

Special 


10:30pm - 4am 

Santa’s Grotto 

Thursday 10th November - 

Saturday 24th December 

10am - 8pm (Must book a time 

slot) 

intu Merry Hill 

Child ticket £6.50, Adult ticket £1 

and Family ticket £12 

Santa’s Grotto 

Monday 14th November - Saturday 

24th December 

10am - 8pm (Must book a time 

slot) 

intu Derby 

Child ticket £6.50 and Adult ticket 

£1 

Core Blimey VS Horizon present 

KandiLand 


10pm - 6am 

The Tunnel Club, Birmingham 

From £20 

Click Friday 


10:30pm - 3:30am 

Snobs, Birmingham 

From £4 

Pleasure Ladies Nights 


7pm - 10:30pm 

The Hub, Birmingham 

From £14.50

#ITCMAGUK COMPETITION 

WIN 

WIN 10 TICKETS TO MIDLANDS 

BASSLINE GATHERING - BOXING DAY 

SPECIAL sponsored by 

TheT icketSellers 

TO ENTER GO TO INTHECITYMAG.COM/COMPETITION 

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH OUR AMAZING COMPETITIONS 

The winner will be contacted via e-mail on 19 th December 

2016 and will be published on facebook and twitter 

By entering this competition you agree to have your name published 

on social media in next months magazine if you are the winner. 

Competition closes :17 th December 2016 


@ITCmagUK


Manhattan Suite & Bar, 


From £16.50 

Loaded Saturday 


10:30pm - 4am 

Snob, Birmingham 

From £4 

Winterfest 2016 

Sunday 4th December 

11am - 11:45pm 


From £10 

Eliza and The Bear 


7pm - 11pm 


From £14.05 

Against Me! 

Tuesday 6th December 

7pm - 11pm 


From £18.55 

Bullet For My Valentine 

Wednesday 7th December 

7pm - 11pm 

O2 Academy, Birmingham 

Form £33.75 

Galactic Empire Plus Special G 


7pm - 11pm 


From £11.25 

Tom Zanetti & K.O Kane Live 

Friday 9th December 

10:30pm - 4am 

Couture & Noir et Blanc, Stafford 

From £5.50 

Perception presents Randall and 

Commix 


11pm - 4am 

The Buttermarket / Cellars, 

Shropshire 

From £12 

Pleasure Ladies Night 


7pm - 10:30pm 

The Hub, Birmingham 

From £14.50 

Absolute Bowie 


7pm - 11pm 


From £15.75 

Dan Whitehouse 


7pm - 11pm 

St Pauls Church, Jewellery Quarter 

From £11 

Dion Dublin Presents His 

Christmas Team Mates 


7pm - 1am 

Ricoh Arena, Coventry 

From £80.25 

Big Wednesday 


10:30pm - 3:30am 


From £4 

Darts Legends Tour 

Thursday 8th December 

1pm - 5pm 

Grosvenor Casino, Leicester 

From £11 

The Doors Alive 


6:30pm - 10pm 


From £13.50 

Crime & Punishment 2011 


7pm - 11pm 

Wagons & Horses, Birmingham 

From £7 

The Amity Affliction ‘This Could 

Be Heartbreak’ UK Tour 


7pm - 11pm 

O2 Institute, Birmingham 

From £16.90 

Floorshakers - Allnighter with 

Chris King, Mick Taylor 


9pm - 6am 


From £5 

Christmas with Notorious 


7:30pm - 10pm 

St John’s & St Peter’s Church, 

Ladywood 

From £11 

Big Country - The Seer Tour 


7:30pm - 11pm 

The Copper Rooms, Coventry 

From £22 

Too Rex 


8pm - 12:30am 


From £9 

Dig? 


9pm - 4am 


From £5 

Sensateria VI - feat. Blackash 


9pm - 4am 

Centrala, Birmingham 

From £11 

Cream 25th Anniversary Tour 

Part 1 


9pm - 6am 

Central Hall (Q Club), 


From £22 

Rebirth invites Unified Beatz 

party 


10pm - 4am 

The Telford Arena and Live 

Lounge, Telford 

From £6.40 

United In House 


10pm - 5am 

Fixxion Warehouse, 

Wolverhampton 

From £11 

Soit Goes Comes to Sutton 

Coldfield For a One Off Special 


10pm - 5am 

Rumour, Sutton Coldfield 

From £6 

Highgrade Xmas Bash 


10pm - 6am 

Myyst Nightclub, Birmingham 

Form £11 



10:30pm - 4am 


From £4 

Soul Society Soul Vs Reggae 


11pm - 4am 

Midnights, Shropshire 

From £11 

A Night Dedicated to Drake 


11pm - 5am 

The Nightingale Club, 


From £5.50 

Manhattan Brunch Club Solihull 


3pm - 11pm 

The Beech House, Solihull 

£22 

Blackdot - Used & Abused 


10pm - 6am 

The Rainbow Venues, Birmingham 

From £19.80 

Click Friday 


10:30pm - 3:30am 


From £4

NIGHTLIFE // SPONSORED BY THE TICKETSELLERS 

49 

Fun with Friends Variety 

Show 


6pm - 1am 

Geisha, Birmingham 

From £9 

Crime and Punishment 2011 


7pm - 11pm 

Chameleon, Nottingham 

From £5.50 

Howl 


7:30pm - 10:30pm 


From £5.50 

Big Wednesday 


10:30pm - 3:30am 


From £4 

Ne-Yo 

Thursday 15th December 

7pm - 11pm 

O2 Academy, Birmingham 

From £55.15 

Christmas Party Nights - Meal 

Barry White Tribute & After 

Party 


7pm - 2am 

Mango Lounge, Birmingham 

From £33 

999 


8pm - 1am 


From £11 

Rare Soul Allnighter 


8pm - 6am 


From £8.80 

Asbo Disco - Rodney P & 

Skitz 


9pm - 2am 


From £11 

Jungle Xplosion 4 


10pm - 4am 

The iClub, Nottingham 

From £11 

Click Friday 


10:30pm - 3:30am 


From £4 

Let’s Jam 


5pm - 11pm 

Harvey Hadden Stadium, 

Nottingham 

From £19.50 

Embrace 


7pm - 11pm 

The Copper Rooms, Coventry 

From £23 

Synthetic Xmas (SC4) 


7pm - 2am 

The Actress and Bishop, 


From £11 

Pink as Floyd 


8pm - 12:30am 


From £9 

Muzikstan Xmas Party 


8pm - 2am 

The Old Print Works, Ballsall 

Heath 

From £6.50 

Soul Nostalgia’s Christmas Party 


9pm - 2:30am 

Feast Junction, Coventry 

From £3.50 

Dig? 


9pm - 4am 


From £5 



10:30pm - 4am 


From £4 

When We Ah Touch Pt.6 


11pm - 5am 

Myyst Nightclub, Birmingham 

From £9 

Big Wednesday 

Wednesday 21st December 

10:30pm - 3:30am 


From £4 

DJ Russke 

Thursday 22nd December 

10pm - 4am 

Players, Birmingham 

From £5.50 

Loaded Thursday Christmas 

Special 

Thursday 22nd December 

10:30pm - 3:30am 


From £4 

Skabilly Rebels 

Friday 23rd December 

8pm - 1am 


From £9 

Hyped Up Vs Creation Happy 

Hardcore Christmas Party 


9pm - 3am 

The Basement, Stoke on Trent 

From £5.50 

My Town is Motown Christmas 

Party 


9pm - 3am 


From £5 

Night Before Christmas Pyjama 

Party 


9pm - 4am 

Club La Dolce Vita, Birmingham 

From £11 

Click / Live Forever 


10:30pm - 3:30am 


From £4 

Midlands Bassline Gathering - 

Boxing Day Special 

Monday 26th December 

7pm - 6am 

Boxxed, Birmingham 

From £14 

Real Deal Comedy Jam 

Christmas Special 


7:30pm - 3am 

6 on Broad Street, Birmingham 

From £20 

UB42 Allskas 


8pm - 12:30am 


From £6.50


House of Jealous Lovers 


8pm - 2am 

Hare & Hounds, Birmingham 

From £5 

Reminisce & Rosie’s Reunion 


9pm - 4am 

The Royal Hotel, Sutton Coldfield 

From £5.50 

Block Party v Crave Boxing Day 

Festival 


9pm - 4am 

Yates, Wolverhampton 

From £8 

Decorum: The Boxing Day 

Masquerade Ball 


10pm - 3am 

Geisha, Birmingham 

From £8 

What A Glorious Boxing Day 

Special 


10pm - 4am 

Retro 90s room, Birmingham 

From £12 

DNB Shellaz Boxing Day Bonanza 


10pm - 5am 

The Tunnel Club, Birmingham 

From £16.50 

Boxing Day Soiree feat. Rag & 

Bone and Gutter Skank 


10:30pm - 4am 


From £4.50 

Real Deal Comedy Jam Christmas 

Special 

Tuesday 27th December 

7:30pm - 3am 

Pryzm, Nottingham 

From £20 

Big Wednesday 


10:30pm - 3:30am 


From £4 

The Royal Oak 1st Anniversary 

Party 


8pm - 3am 

The Royal, Dudley 

From £5.50 

Culture Clash 


10pm - 4am 

The Grain Store, Wolverhampton 

From £5.50 

ONEDUB - Jah Shaka Sound 

System 


10pm - 5am 

Irish Centre, Birmingham 

From £16.50 

Click Friday 


10:30pm - 3:30am 


From £4 

New Year’s Eve - 

Saturday 31st December 

Family Ball 

6pm - 2:30am 

Second City Suite, Birmingham 

From £22 (£5.50 for children) 

Black and White Party 

7pm - 2am 

Watchmakers, Coventry 

From £9 

Mods & Sods 

7:30pm - 1am 

The Highbury Inn, Moseley 

From £11 

NYE 2016 

7:30pm - 3am 

The Flapper, Birmingham 

From £5.20 

The Rooters 

8pm - 2am 


From £6.50 

Alice in Winterland 

8pm - 3am 

Bohemian, Wolverhampton 

From £5.50 

NYE 

8pm - 4am 

MooMoo Nightclub, Derby 

From £11 

Soul Nostalgia 

9pm - 3am 

Feast Junction , Coventry 

From £3.50 

Bionic Carnival 

9pm - 4am 

Outback Nightclub, Birmingham 

From £9 

Red Carpet Masquerade Ball 

9pm - 4am 

The Venue, Edgbaston 

From £11 

Worcester Warehouse Pro-ject | 

2 Stages 

9pm - 5am 

Crystal Warehouse, Worcester 

From £8 

One Big NYE 

9pm - 6am 

O2 Academy, Leicester 

From £33 

Northern Soul, Mod & Motown 

Allnighter 

9pm - 6am 


From £8 

This is Hardhouse vs FUZED 

9pm - 6am 

Streetlife, Leicester 

From £14 

P.I.M.P Party 

9:30pm - 4:30am 

The Old Crown, Birmingham 

From £9 

Simply Soul 

10pm - 3am 

Fredericks Bar & Lounge, Jewellery 

Quarter 

From £11 

New Years Eve @ Snobs 

10pm - 4am 


From £8 

Collars & Heels New Years 

Extravaganza 

10pm - 4am 

Sion Cocktail Bar & Dining, 


From £5.50 

Sound Of The Nu School #BASS 

10pm - 6am 

The Emporium, Leicester 

From £11 

Chic’s End of Year White Party 

10pm - 8am 

Chic, Birmingham 

From £11

NIGHTLIFE

ACCOUNTANTS 

SPECIALISTS IN COMMERCIAL FINANCE 

Accounts 

Book Keeping 

Payroll 

Taxation 

Mortgages 

Auditing 

Consultancy

SPOTLIGHT 

MONTHLY 

FEATURE 


ALPS ACCOUNTANTS & FINANCIAL ADVISORS 

WWW.ASKALPS.COM

54 MONTHLY FEATURE // SPONSORED BY ALPS ACCOUNTANTS & FINANCIAL ADVISORS 

THE 

SEASON OF 

GOODWILL: 

There’s no denying that no matter what your heritage, 

religion or circumstance, the Christmas and New Year’s 

periods are meant to be the keystones in the season of 

goodwill among all men. Continuing the great traditions 

of Football as an equaliser across borders, religions and 

differences, Kashif Siddiqi has been extraordinarily busy 

with his charity group Football For Peace, helping to broker 

plenty of goodwill and hopefully make the world a little 

better for 2017. 

Proving that there’s no rest for the wicked (even less if you’re 

not), Kashif hasn’t had any time to rest, even after having got 

married earlier in the year. Chatting to In The City Magazine, 

we found out what he has been up to since his wedding. 

“It’s been really good to be fair, but it’s also been very 

stressful. The wedding finished on Sunday and on Thursday 

I was on a plane going to Rome where I was doing a press 

conference with Pope Francis and the Vatican Presidents. It 

was an incredible experience and was very well received by 

international media. And, I think as a British Muslim speaking 

at the Vatican, it was quite powerful. Having the credibility of 

Pope Francis backing Football For Peace properly, has put it 

in a whole different space.” 

A hugely significant moment for the charity, Kashif’s meeting 

with the Pope spread a strong message of unity and helped 

legitimise Football For Peace as a global, multi-religion effort. 

For Kashif, having such notable supporters on the global 

scale as Pope Francis, Pele and Prince William is something 

of a dream come true. “I have had so many ‘pinch myself’ 

moments in the last three years and I keep having them. 

It’s overwhelming at times, but the thing is; because I’m so 

close to it and I really believe in what I’m doing, I haven’t 

had a chance to just think about the moment. With meeting 

Prince William and then the Pope and Pele, I don’t ever get 

a chance to sit back and think ‘Oh!’ because the next thing 

happens. Straight from Rome I had to go to Istanbul, to be 

with the president of Turkey, and now I’m going to Monaco 

to see Prince Albert“. 

Kashif Siddiqi speaking with Hassen 

Chalghoumi and Elana Meyer on Sport 

Tackling Global Community Tension 

Caught up in a whirlwind of support and prominent 

individuals, Kashif admits that he doesn’t usually have the 

time to feel nervous about meeting global figures. “I literally 

don’t get a second to take it in! But, on the day I met the 

Pope I was really nervous because I also met Cardinal 

Ravasi (the president of the Vatican). Obviously, they put 

me last as well, so I was listening to everyone speak and 

started thinking about what I had to say and I was trying 

to take notes while my manager was saying “stop making 

notes on stage”! Being a sports person I’ve never been in 

an atmosphere like that – usually it’s about “How did you 

play?” “How did you feel?” and a bit about the charity, but 

this was obviously speaking to prominent international 

media about the issues happening in the world, sports 

diplomacy and what this meant. I could say anything, but 

it’s difficult because if I say the wrong thing it has an effect 

on the entire organisation”. 

For figures in the spotlight such as Kashif, a misstep can 

hugely affect the way not only the person is seen, but also 

the organisations that they are associated with. It’s no 

Gianfranco Ravasi President of the Pontifical 

Council for Culture & Alessandro Del Piero 

Italian football Icon at the Vatican

MONTHLY FEATURE // SPONSORED BY ALPS ACCOUNTANTS & FINANCIAL ADVISORS 

55 

small wonder then, that Kashif has had to be very careful in 

interviews in 2016 amidst the many political minefields. ”I 

had an interview with Newsweek a couple of weeks ago. 

This was before the campaign of Donald Trump, they said 

what would you say to him as a Muslim? And what he said 

about banning you from the States. I didn’t really have an 

answer; I had to go all the way around it and basically said 

“Look, if I’m playing football and I don’t pass to my teammate 

how am I ever going to move up the field? Same as 

Donald Trump – if you’re not going to work with people 

you’re not going to get anywhere. And then they asked me 

what would you say to ISIS? The same answer.” 

Kashif’s answers all come down to one simple, overarching 

message; peace. “I’m a champion for peace. Every year the 

Peace and Sport Forum bring together all the champions 

of peace, alongside some heads of states and other MGO’s 

internationally, and they discuss what’s happened. Soon 

I fly to Monaco, where we will have a private lunch with 

Prince Albert. He talks about what the champions are doing 

and how we can support the cause better. As the next 

phase for Football For Peace we are putting on a “peace 

match” in Paris. We have one every year and this year it will 

be held at the Eifel Tower. I’m going to ask him to be one of 

the captains on the team.” 

“The aim is to hopefully get Prince William to be the other 

captain. Prince Albert and (hopefully) Sadiq Khan will 

also play. As a mayor, as well as a sports minister amongst 

footballing icons, we hope this will deliver a message of 

peace and harmony, especially in Paris after last year’s 

attacks and what is happening there. The isolation in some 

of the communities is incredible. Post-attack Paris being 

championed as a city of peace is a really good message.” 

Prince Albert II of Monaco & 

Kashif siddiqi at the Peace Sport 

Vatican Sport At the Service of Humanity 

Press Conference Kashif speaks as a British 

Footballer promoting Peace 

The global nature of Football For Peace’s message means 

that Kashif has to frequently travel to meet foreign leaders 

to try and not only spread the ideals of the charity, but 

foster international relations directly through football. “We 

have been talking about making Istanbul a city for peace 

alongside Paris. After the failed coup, as well as Turkey 

being one of the few Muslim countries in the middle of 

everything (in regards to Syria and Iraq), internally the 

country’s in a bit of a mess. But, they are really trying to rebuild 

and I think they are really keen for adopting Football 

For Peace. Crucially, there are young kids in isolated areas 

that face issues of isolation. You cannot leave children 

isolated – Muslim kids, Jewish kids, Christian… Faith 

doesn’t even matter. When they are really interacting, they 

get older and they get fed up and won’t have prejudices, 

because sport, arts and drama help break these things. It’s 

all about challenging the mindsets of the future generation 

and using our peace matches and the highest level of 

governments to raise awareness. The peace process really 

does work, from government all the way down to grass 

roots.” 

Plans don’t just happen away from home however; Kashif 

is also currently organising developments for Birmingham 

and has some ideas on how our readers can help the charity. 

“There’s so many different ways! For us, raising awareness 

and dialogue is the key thing but to really become tangibly 

involved we’ve got to campaign with peace activators. 

Peace activators could be anyone from any background, 

they come and sign up and they are basically supporting 

the pledge by supporting the movement. We launch 

Birmingham and London in January. Birmingham is a city 

for peace already, but they are really kicking off the project 

at the moment.” 

Visit www.footballforpeaceglobal.org for more information, 

and to find out how you can get involved.


THE 12 DAYS OUT 

Thursday 1st December – Friday 23rd 

December: Christmas At The National 

Sea Life Centre 

One of Birmingham’s favourite 

attractions all year round, the National 

Sea Life Centre gets into the Christmas 

spirit with festive attractions sure to 

excite and please. Offering the likes 

of an underwater Christmas tree and 

Santa’s Antarctic Grotto, this attraction 

will prove popular with audiences of all 

ages. 

Thursday 1st December – Saturday 31st 

December: Santa’s Winter Wonderland 

at the Snowdome 

You need not wish for a white 

Christmas with Tamworth’s Snowdome. 

As the name suggests, the dome 

provides a perennial winter wonderland 

environment with plenty of slushy 

enjoyment for all the family. Santa’s 

Winter Wonderland brings together real 

animals and real snow for a genuinely 

fun, family-friendly experience. 

Thursday 1st December – Monday 2nd 

January: Magical Lantern Festival 

The Magical Lantern Festival is a perfect 

way to brighten up winter’s darker 

nights. Starting mid-November, the 

event offers guests a chance to come 

explore the Birmingham Botanical 

Gardens as they are bathed in a 

kaleidoscope of colours from specially 

sculpted Chinese lanterns around the 

site. 

Thursday 1st December – Sunday 8th 

January: Christmas Ice Rink & Big 

Wheel 

A now iconic part of Christmas 

in Birmingham, the Ice Rink & Big 

Wheel attractions actually open 

mid-November, but run throughout 

December until January 8th. Held at 

centenary square (near the Birmingham 

Library), the attractions are open 

10am to 10pm daily (with Christmas 

Eve & Christmas Day being the only 

exceptions). 

Every Weekend from Friday 2nd 

December, Tuesday 20th – Friday 23rd: 

Blithbury Reindeer Lodge 

No animal quite represents Christmas 

like the reindeer, so it’s no surprise that 

Blithbury Reindeer Lodge (home to 

the largest working reindeer herd in 

England) is set for plenty of tourism 

this Christmas. Christmas at Blithbury 

Reindeer Lodge allows guests to get 

close to the brilliant animals, explore 

Santa’s grotto and even enjoy a 

traditional sleigh ride. 

Saturday 3rd, Sunday 4th, Friday 9th, 

Saturday 10th, Sunday 11th, Saturday 

17th – Saturday 24th December: 

Christmas at the Black Country Living 

Museum 

There’s no denying that Christmas has 

one of the largest concentrations of 

traditions of any time of year. For a truly 

traditional Christmas experience, the 

Black Country Living Museum presents 

a season of themed events (including 

a Santa hunt) to offer Christmas with a 

truly Dickensian feel.


57 

OF CHRISTMAS 

Thursday 9th and Friday 10th 

December: The Mac presents – A 

Christmas Carol 

The quintessential Christmas tale, 

Birmingham’s Mac Theatre presents 

a live rendition of Charles Dickens’ 

iconic tale. A fully immersive theatre 

experience, the play is put on by 

critically acclaimed theatre production 

company Chapterhouse. Tickets 

cost just £12, the show is suitable for 

audiences of all ages. 

Saturday 10th December: Oktoberfest 

Wolverhampton Christmas Party 

Hosted in association with ATOM (All 

Types Of Music) and Digbeth Dining 

Club, the Oktoberfest Wolverhampton 

Christmas Party offers the great tastes 

of Germany away from the crowds of 

its Birmingham-based cousin. Hosted 

at Starworks Warehouse just outside 

Wolverhampton city centre, entrance is 

just £8. 

Saturday 10th December – Sunday 18th 

December: Christmas Floating Market 

Harkening back to Birmingham’s trading 

roots, the Birmingham Christmas 

Floating Market makes a return on 

December 10th. Open at Brindleyplace 

canal from 10am to 4pm each day, 

the market offers bespoke items to 

discerning shoppers looking for that 

homemade feel. 

Sunday 11th December & Sunday 18th 

December: Christmas by Candlelight 

Christmas might be a time for great 

commerce, but it is also the season 

of goodwill. In that spirit, the Old 

Jointstock Theatre near Colmore Row is 

set to host its annual charity fundraising 

event on the 11th and 18th of December. 

Proceeds go to Shooting Star Chase. 

Wednesday 14th December – Tuesday 

27th December: Aladdin in Stratford- 

Upon-Avon 

The home of Shakespeare, quite 

possibly the best playwright in the 

English language, Stratford-Upon-Avon 

has special Christmas events happening 

throughout December. None though, 

are more Christmas spirited than the 

traditional pantomime Aladdin, showing 

at the Stratford Arts House – a perfect 

way to celebrate popular theatre and 

theatrical history alike. 

Saturday 17th December: Blast Off! At 

the Wolverhampton Civic Halls 

Proving that you can’t keep a good club 

night down, legendary Wolverhampton 

club night Blast Off returns to the 

Civic Halls for another frantic night of 

partying. With the Civic Halls shutting 

again at the end of December, this 

could be the last chance for a big blowout 

in Wolverhampton for a while. 

FROM IN THE CITY MAGAZINE


NEW YEAR’S 

EVE IN 

BIRMINGHAM 

As the New Year draws in ever closer, revellers in the 

West Midlands are spoiled for choice. Be it a party in 

a city centre location like Birmingham, Coventry or 

Wolverhampton, or a more intimate gathering in a suburb 

locale like King’s Heath’s Hare and Hounds, the Midlands has 

plenty to offer to its partying denizens to see in the New Year 

with a bang. 

Big name clubs and bars like Revolution, Snobs and 

Walkabout are set to host their annual celebrations (though, 

for those places every day is worthy of celebration!). But, if you 

prefer a party away from the roar of the city centre, a short 

hop into Digbeth offers brilliant parties on a smaller scale in the 

form of NYE events at Suki 10c (hosted by Club L’amour) or 

the appropriately-named New Year’s All Nighter at The Night 

Owl. 

Revellers need not go hungry either; Digbeth Dining Club, 

a night life institution in its own right, is due to help in the 

organisation of a massive NYE event at Mama Roux and 

Spotlight. Kicking off at 18.30, the event runs until 3am and will 

feature live music, DJs, performers and street food. 

Further afield, visitors to King’s Heath can rely upon the 

suburban mecca that is the Hare and Hounds to provide an 

exceptional New Year’s Event. Drawing on the pub’s reputation 

as an exceptional live music venue, NYE at the Hare will see 

some of the Midlands best DJs and Promoters (Leftfoot, This Is 

Tmrw) spin some great records across two separate rooms. 

If you’re looking to enjoy a NYE party that would leave Gatsby 

speechless, you might be best served at the Roaring Twenties 

Party At The ICC. Just as the name suggests, this party draws 

on the glitz and glamour of the 1920s for a speakeasy inspired 

night that gives guests a taste of old-timey opulence. 

For more information on these New Year’s Eve Parties 

and more, head to our website www.inthecitymag.com in 

December! 

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creating your dream jewellery at the highest standard with the best quality materials. 

We firmly believe that the finest jewellery can still only be made by hand. 

Why Buy Jewellery From Andreea Design? We’re Not happy Until You are Happy.


59 

The Inevitable 

Weight Gain 

Over The 

Christmas 

Holidays 

– No longer! 

Have you already accepted 

that you’re going to pile on 

the kilograms this holiday? 

Wondering how on earth you’re going 

to survive the party season without 

ruining all the effort put into these 

past few months? – don’t fear! Staying 

healthy over Christmas and avoiding 

overindulgence isn’t impossible. 

It all starts in the morning! 

If you know you’re going to have a party 

filled evening, then start the day with a 

generous bowl of porridge, topped with 

a handful of your favourite fruits. Due to 

its’ slow releasing properties, porridge 

is great at stabilising your blood sugar 

levels throughout the day helping you 

avert those cravings later in the day. 

Stay hydrated! 

On the day of a long night ahead, try 

and make a conscious effort to drink 

6-8 glasses of water a day. Other drinks 

count to your fluid intake too, such 

as herbal teas, diluted juices and tea 

/ coffee. However caffeinated drinks 

shouldn’t make up the majority of your 

fluid intake. In addition to detoxifying 

your body, it also helps you to feel 

satiated thus making it easier to control 

those sugary sweet desires. 

Be sensible when snacking. 

All good Christmas parties have a table 

full of snacks, so try having a pre – party 

snack. An ideal one would be a pot of 

probiotic yoghurt with a sliced banana; 

there are several benefits to this. Firstly 

the friendly bacteria in the yoghurt 

boosts your immunity helping to combat 

the less beneficial aspects of the festive 

season; like being sleep derived and 

excessive alcohol consumption. Secondly 

the yoghurt’s protein slows the rate at 

which the stomach empties delaying 

the hard hitting hunger pains as the 

night progresses. Why the banana? Salt 

consumption tends to increase thirst, 

which at a party full of snacks is easy to 

come by. This thirst is usually quenched 

by calorie 

packed 

alcoholic 

beverages 

or sugary 

carbonated 

drinks. The 

potassiumrich 

banana 

can stop 

this from 

happening by 

balancing out 

the increase in 

your salt intake. 

No way buffet! 

A Christmas holiday 

is never really complete 

without an all-out buffet! 

There’s no real way around this 

one, the best thing to do is to 

fill 1/2 the plate with salad / 

vegetables, 1/4 with protein 

rich foods and 1/4 with those 

succulent roast potatoes or any 

other carb rich foods you love. 

If possible substitute potato 

foods with sweet potato as 

it’s much less calorific and has 

some sugars to help minimise 

dessert cravings. When your 

plate is full – move away 

from the buffet table to avoid 

continuous grazing. 

New day new start. 

After a long night, even if 

you’ve overindulged – do not 

skip meals! The spiking of your 

metabolism early in the day 

and balance of your diet are 

extremely important in staying 

healthy long term. 

By Idris 

Mughal 

For Personalised Diet Plans / 

Enquiries Email: 

Iddym.fitness@gmail.com

WHEN CHRISTMAS IS OVER JUST THINK OF 

ALL OF THE PLACES YOU CAN VISIT IN THE 

UK NEXT YEAR 

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TOUR OPERATOR OFFERS ESCORTED 

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TAKE THE STRAIN OUT OF 

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62 TRAVEL // SPONSORED BY CALTOURS 

South For The Winter 

It might be the season of goodwill but you might not be feeling like it if you’ve been caught out in the winter 

chill whilst Christmas Shopping. To help alleviate some of the stresses of home, In The City Magazine has 

assembled a list of our top sunny destinations that you could jet off to this winter to escape the cold. 

Barbados 

There’s nothing quite like spending Christmas lounging on 

the beach as the sun beats down overhead. The picture 

of tropical paradise, Barbados is world-renowned for its 

unbeatable sultry sunshine and sedate Caribbean lifestyle. 

That’s not to mention it’s incredible beaches, with sands 

coming in every hue from pink to dazzling white, proving you 

don’t need to be cold to enjoy a white Christmas! Between 

premium luxury hotels and incredible cuisine options (with 

fiery Caribbean recipes perfectly washed down by a dosing 

of cool rum), Barbados is the perfect getaway for someone 

who can’t stand the winter chill (it also makes for a great 

romantic present!). 

Cuba 

Cuba 

Culturally unique and blessed with typical Caribbean 

weather, Cuba is an exceptional option for the sun-seeking 

holidaymaker. Sugar white beaches provide a seasonal tinge to 

proceedings, whilst a taste of Cuban pork will more than make 

up for missing the traditional Ham roast at the German market. 

A unique snapshot of life pre-globalisation, Cuba retains a 

retro edge whilst also offering its visitors the very best in 

entertainment and comfort. With US relations steadily thawing, 

the Cuba of today (and indeed, the past five decades) is likely 

to soon evolve into something much more in keeping with the 

rest of the world – so it’s best to visit soon! 

Cyprus 

Cyprus 

With the frenetic pace of the holidays at home, the last thing 

you want to do when looking to relax is spend long hours 

in an airport waiting for connecting flights or flying halfway 

across the world. Cyprus then, offers a perfect, quick winter 

sun getaway. On the edge of Europe and situated between 

Greece and Turkey (both of whom have territorial stakes on 

the island), Cyprus enjoys Mediterranean like climates nearly 

all year round and boasts a series of fantastic beaches and 

luxury hotels.

TRAVEL // SPONSORED BY CALTOURS 

63 

Barbados 

Mexico 

Sri Lanka 

You can’t get much further away from the traditional 

British Christmas experience than Mexico. Fiery fiestas, 

incredible cultural artefacts and perma-sun conditions 

make Mexico a perfect getaway during the winter months. 

Visitors can choose to explore the tourist areas of Cancun, 

where there are water-sports and activities aplenty to keep 

them entertained (including visits to some of the ancient 

Mayan ruins). Otherwise, visitors can choose to stick to 

the Christmas spirit and visit one of Mexican cities, where 

Christmas is celebrated from December 12th until January 

6th with energetic posada processions. 

Sri Lanka 

An island to the South of India, Sri Lanka enjoys an incredible 

tropical climate that offers a stark contrast to the frozen 

Northern hemisphere. Adorned with luscious rainforests, 

arid plains and sandy beaches, the country offers plenty of 

adventure for the intrepid holidaymaker. Ancient Buddhist 

ruins offer cultural exploration opportunities, whilst the 

rainforests themselves provide plenty of chances to get 

to grips with the local wildlife. A fragrant and verdant 

destination, Sri Lanka offers incredible experiences ranging 

from colourful pageants to relaxing full-body treatments 

using traditional methodologies. 

Vietnam 

Mexico 

Asia offers many incredible tourist experiences all year round, 

but few compare to Vietnam. Predominantly a Buddhist 

country, Vietnam nonetheless celebrates Christmas in its 

own inimitable way. As with most Vietnamese celebrations, 

Christmas in Vietnam is a colourful and energetic affair with 

emphasis placed on the spirit of the season rather than its 

commercial sides as in the West. This makes for a highly 

enjoyable, friendly atmosphere for tourists to explore the 

country and its own culture within, not to mention glimpse 

how celebrations like Christmas are approached overseas.

64 TRAVEL // SPONSORED BY CALTOURS 

THE UNIQUE 

ROCKHOUSE 

RETREAT 

The Rockhouse Retreat is Britain’s first 21st century 

cave house holiday home. It’s an 800 year old 

cave house hand carved into a 50-foot-high 

Triassic sandstone cliff in three secluded acres of tranquil 

Worcestershire woodland. Located on the meandering 

banks of Honey Brook, despite being less than 20 miles 

from Birmingham City Centre this wonderful magical 

romantic retreat feels a thousand miles from care. It’s an 

enchanting fairy-tale to behold & located near Bewdley, in 

an area many believe provided inspiration to JRR Tolkien 

for the ‘hobbit holes’ in The Lord of the Rings. 

A short stroll up an inclined path into the tree canopy 

brings you to the large south-facing terrace. The 

Rockhouse frontage draws you nearer with its warm 

colours & tactile textures. As you enter your very own 

private cave retreat, you’re greeted with a cosy, dry, uplifting 

warmth, like nothing you’ve experienced before. 

The Rockhouse Retreat comprises of five spacious 

rooms, each one showing evidence of pickaxe marks 

from its hand sculpted past around 800 years ago. The 

Rockhouse is as much a sculpture as it is an inspiring 

romantic retreat & a fine example of Britain’s rare & most 

primitive architecture. 

Like any conventional home, the occupants have adapted 

the interior over time & according to archaeological 

architects & heritage consultants the shelving & inglenook 

fireplace have been added in the last 300 years. 

Angelo explains “I first discovered The Rockhouse when I 

was out mountain biking with some friends from school in 

Hagley in 1999. I was totally in awe, it was like nothing I’d 

seen before. Later that year I went to Australia & in 2001, 

aged just 23, I started a business but then later in 2007 my 

life changed when I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 

(MS), just two weeks after my 30th birthday. 

Towards the end of 2008 I had a severe lapse which 

temporarily paralysed the entire right hand side of my 

body. This was the catalyst that changed my life, I 

decided to fulfil my aspiration to restore an old property. 

On an extended return trip visiting my parents, I opened 

the local property supplement & there it was, the centre 

fold, ‘A house fit for Fred Flintstone’, The Rockhouse, & 

if that wasn’t enough excitement, the auction was on 

my birthday! I returned to Australia & sold my company, 

simplified my affairs and returned in March 2011 with the 

dream of renovating ‘The Rockhouse’ into Britain’s first 

21st century cave house holiday home & had it featured 

on the hit Channel 4 TV show ‘Grand Designs’. That was 

always my dream and that’s exactly what happened.” 

The project was two years with planners & Angelo who’s 

surname ‘Mastropietro’ aptly translates to ‘Master of the 

Stone’, excavated more than 70 tonnes of rock, lowering the 

floor & carving unique features such as archways, a doorway, 

fire place, wardrobe & even a bath which he later converted 

into a heart shaped cave oasis shower. Water comes from 

a 200ft well & The Rockhouse has a host of modern day 

luxuries such as an electric range, underfloor heating in the 

shower room & even wifi. 

Book a unique Rockhouse Retreat at: 

www.therockhouseretreat.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT 

HOME & PROPERTY 


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68 HOME & PROPERTY // SPONSORED BY ALPS ARCHITECTURAL & BUILDING SERVICES 

Introducing 

brightLET Blog 

Hello, and welcome to the very first 

brightLET blog – a handy guide offering 

advice, clarity and information about 

the world of renting and property. But 

first, let’s get the formalities out of the 

way, shall we? 

For more blogs and information, visit 

www.brightlet.com 

So, who are brightLET? 

The new kids on the block (relatively speaking), brightLET was 

set up in 2015 to simplify the relationship between tenants and 

landlords. Disruptive technology (which is to say, technology 

which is an absolute game changer), brightLET is cloud based 

and offers its users – landlord and tenant alike – a handy, easyto-use 

way to track applications, correspondence and just 

about everything else you could possibly want to keep track 

of! 

Who uses brightLET? 

A lot of people! brightLET currently (at the time of writing) 

comprises of 349 registered landlords, 207 properties and 888 

registered tenants, with the expectation for many, more users 

in the near future. Simply put, if you are interested in letting 

or renting a property, brightLET could be just the kind of nononsense, 

easy-to-follow platform you have been looking for. 

Why have I heard of brightLET before? 

Frankly, if you’re involved in the world of property (especially 

on a business level), we’d be surprised if you hadn’t! Though 

they have only been around for the past twelve months (on 

an even shorter timescale since going public), brightLET has 

already been making plenty of ripples in the wider property 

and business industries, attracting the attention of big-name 

investors and awards bodies alike. 

Awards Bodies, you say? 

We do say, yes! brightLET was awarded a Top 5 position for 

“Excellence in Technology” at the Birmingham Awards, placed 

Top 10 for a “Disruptive Technology” award and won “Best 

Online Business 2016” by the EABA (English Asian Business 

Awards). As you can see – word has spread fast about 

brightLET and what they represent to the world of property. 

What DO they represent? 

brightLET represents easy, honest interactions between 

landlords and tenants. The technology’s ease of use 

guarantees that you won’t struggle to find your way around to 

find just what you need, when you need it. brightLET handles 

everything from maintenance to payments and references, 

meaning you won’t have to carry around a forest’s worth of 

paperwork whenever you need those important documents! 

How much is it going to cost me to sign up? 

Nothing; it’s free! 

Well what am I waiting for? 

Article by Rich Hobson 

We don’t know! Head over to the brightLET site to find out 

more information, read up on brightLET a little more and 

(most importantly) find out how you can get involved in the 

property lettings and tenancy revolution.

HOME & PROPERTY // SPONSORED BY ALPS ARCHITECTURAL & BUILDING SERVICES 

69 

TOP TIPS FOR ACCOMMODATING 

GUESTS OVER CHRISTMAS 

Season’s greetings, wonderful readers of In The City Magazine! Christmas truly is one of the most wonderful times of 

year, if only because it creates a great excuse to host get-togethers with friends and family you might otherwise not see 

throughout the year. With that in mind, this month’s article offering advice about the home is geared towards the top tips 

we can offer for accommodating guests over the Christmas and New Year’s periods. 

Limited Bed Space? Get Creative! 

As it’s highly unlikely that 

you’ll have eight or so spare 

beds available, chances are 

it’ll be difficult to accommodate 

multiple guests staying overnight. 

Taxi costs being what they are over 

the Christmas/New Year period (and 

the inclusiveness of Christmas spirits 

being what they are) you’ll probably 

feel a little let-down if you can’t offer 

your guests a place to stay the night 

(especially those that have travelled a 

way to be there in the first place), but 

all it takes is a little creativity. 

Guests sleeping on the sofa is nothing 

new, but if you have recliner chairs/ 

settees perhaps your guests will be 

more comfortable taking up a chair 

each and fully reclining it for the 

night? It might not be the wisest 

option in chiropractic terms, but it 

certainly beats paying inflated costs 

on a taxi and cutting a night short! 

That’s not the only option available 

to you though – the humble air 

mattress can be a (back) saver if 

you have enough floor space, be it 

in a spare room or the living room 

at the end of the night. It might be 

a little time consuming to set up, 

but the air mattress will offer guests 

some comfort over braving the cold 

December night. 

Save on washing up – think green! 

Just the thought of washing up after 

a big gathering around Christmas 

can be enough to send you back the 

frights of Halloween whilst wishing 

for a summer holiday. One of the 

best options for keeping washing 

up to a bare minimum is to invest in 

disposable (preferably recyclable!) 

utensils. 

It might seem a tad odd (not to 

mention a bit tacky) to be using 

disposable cups and plates over your 

finest china (or even just normal plates 

and glasses), but if you’ve got a house 

full the last thing you’ll want to tackle 

at the end of the day (or even the 

following day) is a heap of washing. 

Try to be discerning when purchasing 

disposable items though – cheaper 

isn’t *always* better, and you won’t be 

working economically at all if you only 

have single-use items to use. 

Britain in December – Nature’s Fridge 

One of the strangest tricks that you 

might want to employ around the 

house is to make use of the frigid 

British winter. Making enough space 

in the fridge for various bottles can 

be difficult (at least for those you’d 

prefer cooled), especially if you’re 

also making room for various food 

ingredients for a big dinner! With that 

in mind, just sticking a few bottles in 

a basket, hamper or bag either in a 

cold room with the window open, or 

by the back-door/pantry (preferably 

somewhere they won’t get knocked 

over!) is a cost-effective and bizarre 

way to turn the cold weather to your 

advantage. Just hope that it’s not so 

cold your drink freezes!

70 HOME & PROPERTY // SPONSORED BY ALPS ARCHITECTURAL & BUILDING SERVICES 

Winter Property Maintenance 

BY Andrew & Peter Founders of PIRC 

Winter is a time to look forward to for many 

reasons, be it roasting chestnuts over the log 

fire, decorating the house too look nice or 

enjoying the garden transform with all the bulbs starting 

to show. 

As a landlord we have an increased work load 

undertaking our preventative checks on all our properties. 

It is a time to do any final property maintenance checks 

prior to the worst the British winter weather can throw at 

us. It is so important to protect what for most of us is our 

most valuable asset with simple quick easy preventative 

steps. 

Lets start up top. The roof keeps the rain out of the 

building, so on a dry day go outside and stand so you can 

see your roof. Look across the rows to make sure all tiles 

are in place and not broken. Inspect the chimney for birds 

nests and look to see if the aerial is up straight and looks 

to be secure. You do not want water to enter and cause 

damage or worse something come off and hit someone 

below. 

Next, either ask someone to do this for you or with the 

help of a friend to hold your ladder, inspect your gutters, 

clear away all the fallen leaves and moss to allow the 

water to flow out quickly. Look at all the gutter joints to 

see if there is staining from leaks to indicate those that 

need replacing. This important check will stop gutters 

over flowing and wetting the walls of the building leading 

to cold and damp spots on the inside and the inevitable 

mould that goes with that. 

Next check windows and doors are all in good order and 

that they close and seal to keep draughts out and open 

to allow for ventilation to reduce the risk of condensation 

and mould in the property. 

Next we check all drains are free of leaves to allow the 

extra rainfall to drain away quickly and tidy up any items 

which could be blown away in the wind before checking 

all fencing to ensure it is in good order. 

These quick simple low cost preventive checks have saved 

thousands of pounds in repairs at times when no one 

wants to be outside doing repair jobs. 

Finally check you have the details of the emergency 

teams for repairs recorded in Brightlets property software 

and encourage your tenants to notify you immediately 

should a problem occur. 

If you would like to meet Peter and Andrew to discuss 

a property problem email: info@great-properties.o.uk

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SPOTLIGHT 

MOTORS 


MOTORBODIES UK

74 MOTORS // SPONSORED BY MOTORBODIES UK 

BRING ON 2017... 

2016 saw many a new car on the road, 2017 promises to bring you even more. Top car manufacturers are 

bringing on their ‘A’ game in 2017 with a long list of cars on the horizon. Here is a snapshot of the cars we 

are most looking forward to seeing... 

Aston Martin V8 Vantage 

Price: From £90,000 (est) 

On Sale: Autumn-2017 

Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo 


On Sale: Mid-2017 

Audi A8 


On Sale: Early-2017 

Lexus LC 


On Sale: Spring-2017 

Maserati Alfieri 


On Sale: 2017 

Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster 


On Sale: 2017

MOTORS // SPONSORED BY MOTORBODIES UK 

75 

BMW 5 Series 


On Sale: February-2017 

Land Rover Discovery 5 

Price: From £43,495 

On Sale: Spring-2017 

Alpine Sports Car 


On Sale: Mid-2017

76 MOTORS // SPONSORED BY MOTORBODIES UK 

JAGUAR I-PACE SET TO TAKE ON TESLA 

I‐PACE Concept will bring thrilling Jaguar performance to electric vehicles. Available 

from the second half of 2018, their first electric vehicle will deliver 700Nm instant 

torque, 400PS and 0-60mph in around 4 seconds. Next generation technology and 

future-facing design combine to deliver a zero vehicle emissions driving experience 

that remains unmistakably Jaguar. When it hits the road, drivers will be able to charge 

the I-Pace as quickly as 0 to 80-percent in about 90 minutes, or completely charged in 

about 2 hours – not long at all. 

It’s unclear how much the Jaguar I-Pace will cost when it becomes available. For now, 

feast your eyes on the car in all its glory... 




COUTURE QUEEN 


12 DAYS OUT 


STOP 

THE PRESS 

Do you have a news story 

that you want to share with 

over 50,000 readers? 

EAT, DRINK, 

& BE MERRY 




CONTACT OUR SALES TEAM NOW 

t: 0121 230 8333 

e: sales@inthecitymag.com

78 SECTION // SPONSORED BY COMPANY 

Retail and Leisure Installations: 

TASC offer a complete site survey service, 

followed by quotation and discussion with 

project directors and managers. After 

acceptance our services include 

ordering, installing and commissioning the 

project. Staff training is also included to 

nominated members of the project team. 

Home Domestic Installations: 

TASC offer a complete turnkey service for 

our domestic customers creating 

sophisticated home surround sound 

solutions and large screen cinema 

entertainment experiences. 

Call us and find out who we have worked 

with over 30 years experience in the 

Leisure and Retail industry. You will not 

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• Audio 

• Visual 

• Lighting 

• Technology 

• Design 

• Consultancy 

• Installations 

• Maintenance

SPOTLIGHT 

OUT 

IN THE CITY 


TASC 

WWW.ASKTASC.COM

80 OUT IN THE CITY // SPONSORED BY TASC 

In The City 

Magazine’s 

GuideTo The 

German Market 

It’s that time of year again in Birmingham. From mid- 

November, the inescapable German Market once again 

drives huge numbers of residents and visitors alike into the 

city centre to sample the finest German (and a few select 

other national choices) cuisine, crafts and drinks. To help 

you navigate through the market, In The City Magazine has 

pulled together all the facts, information and tips we think 

you should know ahead of the 2016 market. 

Happy 50th Birthday 

to the Frankfurt 

Market! 

2016 marks 50 years since Birmingham was first twinned 

with Frankfurt. Though the market has only run for the past 

15 years, the city has enjoyed an open trade relationship for 

half a century. 

Where can I find the market? 

The real question is, where can’t you find it? The market is 

found throughout Birmingham city centre, most notably 

on Victoria Square, running right the way down to the 

city’s iconic bull, as well as behind the town hall all the way 

through to the new library building. 

Where is best to start the market? 

Anywhere you like! As the market covers such a wide area, 

there are plenty of options for visitors to explore when 

coming to the market. Arriving by train (via Birmingham 

Moor Street, New Street or Snow Hill Stations) will likely drop 

you right in the centre of the market, so you might want to 

explore your way out from there. 

Alternatively, if you’re meeting others you might want to 

choose an easy meeting place like the Bull Statue, right 

outside the Bull Ring Shopping Centre. Starting here is ideal 

if you want to get stuck straight in with food and drinks – 

there are plenty of stands on the walk up towards Victoria 

square where you can sample a Bratwurst, drool over a 

cheesewurst or brave it past a spicy sausage. 

A further yet option, especially useful if you are tired of being 

stuck in traffic coming into the city centre via bus or car, is 

to jump off by Broad Street and work your way down to the 

library building. At the library, you will find some alternative 

food options (including ostrich and reindeer burgers), a 

pop-up Birmingham eye (especially great if you want to 

get a good view of the city at night) and ice-rink, meaning 

starting this end is ideal if you don’t want to go skating on a 

full stomach! 

What time is best to visit? 

Any time, really! The market operates from around 10am 

until approximately 9pm, meaning you can visit at almost 

any time and still enjoy a taste of Bavaria. If you want to 

avoid the crowds, earlier in the day tends to be best – the

OUT IN THE CITY // SPONSORED BY TASC 

81 

crowds especially thicken as the sun goes down, so it’s not 

ideal to come after 5pm if you want to have a quiet stroll 

around the market (if such a thing exists!). Another bonus 

to visiting earlier in the day is that you will be able to visit 

some of Birmingham’s surrounding shops, turning the market 

into a handy pick-me-up as you get through the gruelling 

Christmas shop. 

Of course, the true party animal seeks out the biggest 

crowds, so if you want to arrive at peak times, arriving after 

business hours tends to yield great results. 

What can I eat? 

Meat! The German Market is slightly thin-on-the-ground for 

great Vegan/Vegetarian cuisine (for that, you’ll be better 

served at some of the city’s specialist restaurants like Not 

Dogs or The Warehouse Cafe). The Bavarian cuisine tends to 

be heavy on pork – iconic servings like Bratwurst, Currywurst 

and other sausage-in-a-bun variants make up a bulk of the 

foodie selections on offer. In addition, you’ll find plenty of 

roast options (once again, Hog Roast is very popular, but 

some traders diversify with turkey and chicken, sometimes 

even beef), perfect if you want a filling dinner. 

Some outlying stalls offer unique twists to add an 

international flavour to the market. The Mumbai Grill offers 

(as the name suggests) grilled Indian-inspired dishes, whilst 

a stall by the library offers up Ostrich and Reindeer for those 

with a more adventurous appetite. 

The market also offers plenty of sweets options, with 

pancakes, cakes and strudels providing a perfect post-dinner 

accompaniment. The market also has seasonal favourites – 

you can’t go wrong with some sweetened nuts (ranging in 

everything from pistachio to cashew), and roasted walnuts 

are a perfect traditional addition. If you prefer your snacks a 

little more savoury, you might partake in local cuisine with a 

German twist; some stalls sell Pork Scratchings. 

What can I drink? 

Everything! If there’s one thing that can rival the German 

Market’s food options, it’s the fantastic selection of 

beverages that guests can enjoy. The iconic option is to head 

straight for a huge flagon of German lager, but for non-beer 

drinkers fruity ciders are also in plentiful supply, available 

both hot and cold. As an additional bonus, the ciders can 

also come with spirited twists, with some bars offering 

cider with additional shots of rum, sloe gin, vodka and 

miscellaneous other spirits. 

For a more “cultured” take on drinking at the German 

market, visitors can also enjoy a variety of wines, including 

the perfect-for-winter mulled wine options that help many 

a Brummie get through the cold winter days. Mulled wines 

are traditionally red, though some fruit wines are also 

available including the fantastic kirschwein (Cherry Wine), 

for a fruity take on the warming drink. Non-alcoholic options 

include warm apple juice (a great alternative if you’re trying 

to cut down on caffeine but still crave those hot drinks!). 

Champagne is also available at some vendors throughout the 

market. 

Did we miss any aspects of the German Market? Tell us on 

our Facebook page! But, above all; have a great Christmas 

and enjoy the market! 

ARTICLE BY RICH HOBSON

82 NIGHTS OUT IN THE CITY // SPONSORED BY TASC 

COCKTAIL RECIPE OF MONTH: 

CANDY 

CANE 

3/4 Ounce Ciroc Red Berry Vodka 

3/4 Ounce Peppermint Schnapps 

3/4 Ounce White Creme De Cacao 

1/4 Ounce Grenadine 

3/4 Ounce Half-And-Half 

(or 1 Part Heavy Cream To 1 Part Whole Milk) 

Crushed Peppermint Candy Rim & 

Candy Cane hanging. 

Serve in a martini Glass 


EAT, DRINK, 

& BE MERRY 




COUTURE QUEEN 


12 DAYS OUT 




EVENT 

PROMOTION 

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you want to promote 

Advert + Listing spaces 

available 

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A U N T I E A G A T H A ' S 

W E P R O V I D E O U T S I D E C A T E R I N G , W H A T E V E R 

T H E O C C A S S I O N , W E H A V E G O O D F O O D T O 

W A R M Y O U R S O U L T H I S C H R I S T M A S ! 

C O N T A C T U S 

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PRINT, DESIGN, 

LABELS & PACKAGING 

Here at Alps, we’re about more than just 

making things look good. Whether it be 

identity, branding, signage as well as digital 

and print design, we make it our goal to work 

with you right from the off, ensuring a 

smooth process from the initial brief to final 

delivery. 

Our seasoned consultants will no doubt be 

able to offer constructive advice and 

feedback on required aspects, enabling 

clients to reap the rewards of our experience 

in the design world 

Clients can come to us with a fully formed 

idea of what they want or they can leave it to 

our in house design professionals to handle 

everything from the initial brief through to 

the finished, print ready image. 

We have great experience in creating artwork 

that is both innovative and original. 

What we do 

· Design 

· Web 

· Packaging 

· Print 

- Prospectuses and brochures 

- Magazines and newsletters 

- Labels 

- Flyers, posters and postcards 

- Business card

SPOTLIGHT 

BUSINESS & 

COMMUNITY 


ALPS PRINT & DESIGN 

WWW.ASKALPS.COM

86 BUSINESS & COMMUNITY // SPONSORED BY ALPS PRINT & DESIGN 

FESTIVE 

MARKETING 

As you know Christmas being just 

around the corner, it’s not too late to 

give your marketing a festive feel. 

For me when I was growing up 

Christmas time was checking out 

the German market in Edinburgh and looking 

forward to watching Bond films around the 

bank holiday festive season. It was also a 

great way of catching up with friends and 

sending New Year messages via good old SMS 

text around the world. 

BY KHALID KARIM, PATHWAY GROUP 

The festive season is also an ideal time to develop new 

relationships by re-engaging with your customer base 

renew some old ones and remind them of information 

about your services. It could just be a chance to 

circulate your Christmas opening hours. Depending on 

the service you provide you may be able to tie this in 

with the festive season. 

If you offer a service that you can’t exactly tie in with 

Christmas, all is not lost. The season to be jolly is still a 

great time to engage with your customers, new and old. 

Since it’s also the season of giving, why not think about 

giving something to your customers. Here are some 

ideas to consider:- 

- Customised Christmas cards – Despite living in a 

digital age, there’s still something nice about receiving 

a printed Christmas card. Unlike an email, the card is 

there for all to read and displayed. It is considered very 

personal and looks great that you have made the effort. 

Although, there are times sending out an e-card can be 

very practical especially if you have a huge database 

and no postal addresses. 

- Promotions for the New Year – give your customers a gift 

they can redeem in the New Year, discount off your services 

in January works well. 

- A branded calendar or diary – ensure your business is 

visible to your customers all year round by sending out a 

calendar or diary that they can display or use throughout 

2017. There are many options available in sending out similar 

promotional gifts. 

Social Media is by far the best way to send out your 

message to your network and also can double up as a great 

advertising and branding campaign. With all the different 

visual mediums out there with video too, it’s a great 

effective way to send out 

In a very diverse multicultural society, one has to show more 

sensitivity by way of sending out a very positive inclusive 

message, which is becoming the accepted ‘safe’ norm.

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY // SPONSORED BY ALPS PRINT & DESIGN 

87 

CHRISTMAS IS 

A TIME FOR 

CONNECTING 

Christmas is a time 

for connecting; and 

communication is essential 

for maintaining healthy 

connections and relationships. This is 

not just limited to personal relationships 

but it is also true of professional and 

business ones. Not only is Christmas 

a good time for catching up with 

your loved ones, it is a great time 

for checking in with your clients and 

customers. Particularly if it’s been a 

while! 

As it is the season to be jolly, it is likely 

your customers and clients will be more 

open to communication from you. But it 

is important that you communicate with 

them in a way that strengthens their 

loyalty and repeated custom. 

This is where applying care and 

consideration to your customers, as 

you would to loved ones, will put you in 

good stead. It is tempting to just send 

customers a seasonal special offer; but 

this type of communication isn’t going 

to help you stand out from the crowd. 

Unless you specifically have something, 

they want, it is likely you will be ignored. 

Remember it’s the thought that counts; 

and this is a great time to demonstrate 

thought rather than strategy. 

At Christmas, we communicate by 

giving; which is a great foundation for 

forging strong links and connections. 

So, focus on strengthening your 

relationships and the sales will come. 

Sending a Christmas card may seem 

obvious, and e-cards and bespoke 

Christmas emails makes it is easy 

and inexpensive. But, rather than 

just sending the same old thing, 

get creative and try something 

different. Maybe a short video 

offering ‘free’ information or 

guidance on something 

related to your product 

or service could create 

renewed interest. 

If you don’t want to send 

something Christmassy, sending 

a simple thank you could be 

the best gift you can give. We all like 

being appreciated; so saying thank you 

and letting your customers know that 

you appreciate their business will make 

them feel valued. 

Another option is to send something 

of personal significance to your 

customers. Depending on your line of 

business or the customer, this could be 

a small gift or a simple personalised 

note. Either way, you are showing that 

you know them well and that you 

care about them. 

Marketing specialist, Guy Kawasaki 

said, “When you enchant people, 

your goal is not to make money 

from them or to get them to do 

what you want, but to fill them 

with great delight.” 

So enjoy the gift of giving 

and have a Merry Christmas, 

Happy Kwanzaa and Happy 

New Year. I look forward to 

communicating with you in 

2017. 

BY MERISHA 

STEVENSON, 

FINANCIAL STYLE 

RADIO SHOW

SPOTLIGHT 

CHARITY 


BARNARDOS 

WWW.BARNARDOS.ORG.UK

90 CHARITY // SPONSORED BY BARNARDOS 

15 YEARS IN 

PUBS …AND 40 

IN LOVE WITH 

AFRICA 

by Hamish Stoddart, co-founder, Peach Pubs 

40 years ago, my aunt Rachel left the safety of a middle class 

marriage and took four kids (including Jo who had Down's 

syndrome) to Africa and lived in a tent in the bush for five 

years building a farm with her new found love, a Kenyan farmer. 

40 years ago, I was 12 and the romance of this “Out of Africa” 

story infected me. My parents took me out on holiday to meet 

the black sheep aunt, and I was hooked. 

For the next 40 years I have been finding reasons to go 

to Africa and to Kenya in particular. I have worked for 

African focussed, travelled extensively, offered myself as 

a consultant, and more recently as non exec and investor. 

I do it as my passion, my hobby, never for money, always for 

involvement. Today … I own tiny parts of my cousins' businesses 

for fun and help them succeed in amazing situations. 

Peach Pubs is my business. The High Field is one of our great 

pubs, and now has The High Field Town House boutique hotel 

next door. We do some great stuff all in the name of Making 

Life Peachy. 17 pubs now and 400 in the team and I love it, 

though I still spend 20 days per year in returning to Kenya. We 

have fantastic fun running the pub business and supporting our 

team. In our industry we are known for being one of the Best 

Employers in Hospitality. 

It's Kenya and the Maasai Mara…the huge national park next to 

the Serengeti that is my current passion. My cousins and I own a 

small safari lodge, the House in The Wild and they have created 

a conservancy called Enonkishu, 6000 acres of land in Maasai 

ownership with the help of a UN grant of $750,000, a training 

centre for training Maasai in how to preserve the grasslands and 

create a balance between their cattle, the grasses, the wildlife 

and the tourists. 

There is a huge issue to face which may eventually destroy the 

last great land migration (the wildebeest) in Kenya. It is our 

aim through education and a mixture of commercial business, 

tourism and aid to create a sustainable future for the home 

of the Maasai and the elephants, rhinos and lions. The main 

objectives of the Enonkishu Conservancy are: 

• Conserving one of Africa’s increasingly fragile ecosystems. 

• Preserving and strengthening the Maasai heritage through 

broader livelihood opportunities. 

• Securing wildlife habitats through sustainable ecotourism and 

holistic management which directly benefits local communities. 

www.naretoi.com/conservancies.html 

Obviously on my own I can't achieve much, but my cousins are 

truly incredible people and they have gathered the UN, WWF, 

Mama See and others. My job is to coach and support them. The 

moment that still amazes me is when the UN, the WWF and the 

Dutch government representatives sat with me, my cousin and 

eight Maasai warriors with spears and drew out a 10 year plan on 

a huge white board. Overcoming language, cultural differences 

and real problems, we mapped a realistic dream, and two years

CHARITY // SPONSORED BY BARNARDOS 

91 

later we have increased grass coverage, elephants, incomes and 

cows! And all with sustainability and mainly though education. 

My biggest pleasure is actually welcoming people for the first 

time to Africa. There is nothing better than talking through how 

the wildlife interact with the Maasai and then explaining the cow 

economy. Explaining how the Maasai increasingly want the life 

they can see on their smartphones and not the pastoral lifestyle 

of their fathers. And watching the newcomers’ faces. 

We took 12 of the Peach team over in 2013 and we planted 

trees and built a hippo fence. Last year, I actually decided to 

try buying a cow for the herd and fatten it on the improving 

grasslands. This year Peach is trying to raise funds to buy a 

community herd of 700 cows. We will contribute $25,000 and 

we are hoping to raise $100,000 to create the whole herd. Any 

profit from the herd will support the community and hopefully 

stop them needing to sell their land and break up the Mara. 

This is a fantastic challenge and I hope some Birmingham 

individuals or businesses might join me in supporting the Mara 

and its people the Maasai. To the truly committed we are even 

selling house plots; we now have 20 new safari houses in the 

wild being built by people from all over the world on Naretoi, our 

800 acre housing development. 

Running and owning a pub business and a safari lodge is ever 

busy, a huge commitment in energy and time, and the really 

great thing about it is I still love it all. If you want to find out 

more about any of the pubs or the Kenya projects, do just 

dial into the websites or send me an email. And if you know 

someone, who wants to support that herd or just visit, I can only 

say it has Made My Life Peachy. 

Hamish can be contacted here 

hamish@peachpubs.com | www.peachpubs.com

92 SECTION // SPONSORED BY COMPANY 

National Leaflet Distribution 

Fast, Easy and Cost Effective 

Meeting Your Direct Marketing Needs 

Comprehensive Reporting 

FOR MORE INFORMATION 

OR A COMPETITIVE QUOTE PLEASE CONTACT: 

0121 230 8333 | darren@letterboxdirectuk.com

DIRECTORY 

WHERE? 

IN THE 

CITY 

PLACES TO 

EAT, DRINK, 

PARTY, SLEEP 


LETTERBOX DIRECT UK 

WWW.LETTERBOXDIRECTUK.COM

94 WHERE IN THE CITY // SPONSORED BY LETTERBOX DIRECT UK 

RESTAURANTS 

British Restaurants 

Purnells 

55 Cornwall St, 

Birmingham B3 2DH 

0121 212 9799 

FSK Mere Green 

1-5 The Highgate Centre, 

Mere Green, Sutton 

Coldfield, B74 4AB 

0121 323 2565 

Opus Restaurants 

54 Cornwall St, 

Birmingham, B3 2DE 

0121 200 2323 

opusrestaurant.co.uk 

Simpsons 

20 Highfield Road 

Edgbaston B15 3DU 

0121 454 3434 

Marco Pierre White's 

Hotel La Tour, Albert St, 

Birmingham B5 5JE 

0121 718 8000 

The Rectory Bar 

50-54 St Paul's Square, 

Birmingham B3 1QS 

0121 605 1001 

The Botanist 

14-16 Temple St, 

Birmingham B2 5BG 

0121 600 7430 

The Vaults 

Newhall Place, Newhall 

Hill, Birmingham B1 3JH 

0121 212 9837 

Bank 

Brindleyplace, 4 Brindley 

Birmingham B1 2JB 

0121 633 4466 


EAT, DRINK, 

& BE MERRY 




COUTURE QUEEN 


12 DAYS OUT 




Oriental Restaurants 

Chung Ying 

16-18 Wrottesley St, 

Birmingham, B5 4RT 

0121 622 5669 

Ming Moon Chinese 

Restaurant & Bar 

16 Hurst St, 

Birmingham, B5 4BN 

0121 622 5588 

Shogun Sushi & Noodle 

Bar 

The Mailbox, 27-29, 

Wharfside St, 

Birmingham, B1 1RS 

0121 632 1253 

Teppanyaki 

Unit E1, The Arcadian, 70, 

Hurst St, Birmingham, 

B5 4TD 

0121 622 5183 

Spanish Restaurants 

Amantia 

Apartment 9, Sun House, 

9-10, Bennetts Hill, 


0121 643 3647 

El Borracho 

65 - 67 Harborne 

Birmingham, B!5 3BU 

0121 454 3568 

Don diego 

5 Manor Rd, Sutton 

Coldfield B73 6EJ 

0121 355 5354 

Bar Estilo 

110-114 Wharfside St, 

Birmingham B1 1RF 

0121 643 3443 

Italian Restaurants 

Bella italia 

102 New St, 

Birmingham B2 4HS 

0121 643 1548 

Zizzi 

The Mailbox, 

Birmingham, B1 1RL 

0121 643 5605 

Cielo 

6 Oozells Square 

Brindley Place, 

Birmingham, B1 2JB 

0121 632 6882 

cielobirmingham.com 

Cucina Rustina Ltd 

24 Ludgate Hill, 

Birmingham, B3 1DX 

0121 233 2277 

French Restaurants 

le monde 

Brindleyplace, 

Birmingham B1 2HL 

0121 271 0600 

Annexxe 

220 Corporation St, 

Birmingham, B4 6QB 

0121 236 1171 

Edmunds' s Bar 

Brindleyplace, 6 Brindley 


0121 633 4944 

edmundsrestaurant.co.uk 

Cafe Rounge 

Bullring Shopping Centre, 

Birmingham, B5 4BG 

0121 616 1463 

EVENT 

PROMOTION 




available 


t: 0121 230 8333 

e: sales@inthecitymag.com 

American Restaurants 

Ed's Easy Diner 

Barclaycard Arena 

King Edwards Rd 

Birmingham, B1 2AA 

0121 233 4005 

TGI Fridays 

180 Hagley Rd 

Birmingham, B16 9NY 

0844 6920 0225 

Buffalo & Rye 

11 Bennetts Hill, 


0121 643 3312 

Five Guys Burger & Fries 


Birmingham, B5 8BU 

0121 643 0215 

Indian Restaurants 

Blue Mango 

Unit 5, Regency Wharf, 

Broad St, 

Birmingham, B1 2DS 

0121 633 4422 

Celebrity Indian 

Restaurant 

44 Broad St, 

Birmingham, B1 2HP 

0121 643 8969 

Eastzeast Restaurant 

197 Broad St, 

Birmingham B15 1AY 

0121 643 4808 

Asha's Birmingham 

12-22 Newhall St, 

Birmingham B3 3LX 

0121 200 2767 

ashasuk.co.uk 

Maharaja Restaurant 

23-25, Hurst St, 

Birmingham, B5 4BP 

0121 622 2641 

Jojolapa Nepalese 

Restaurant 

55-59, Newhall St, 

Birmingham, B3 3RB 

0121 212 2511 

Praza 

94 - 96 Hagley Road 

Birmingham B16 8LU 

0121 456 4500 

Pushkar Cocktail Bar & 

Dining 

245 Broad St, 

Birmingham, B1 2HQ 

0121 643 7978


Gastropubs 

The Victoria 

48 John Bright St, 

Birmingham B1 1BN 

0121 633 9439 

The High Field 

22 Highfield Rd, 

Birmingham B15 3DP 

0121 227 7068 

highfieldedgbaston. 

co.uk 

The New Inn 

74 Vivian Rd, 

Birmingham, B17 0DJ 

0121 426 3373 

The Brasshouse 

44 Broad St, 

Birmingham, B1 2HP 

0121 633 3383 

The Plough 

21 High St, 

Birmingham, B17 9NT 

0121 427 3678 

theploughharborne. 

co.uk 

The White Swan 

Harborne Rd, 

Birmingham B15 3TT 

0121 454 2359 

Bacchus Bar 

Burlington Arcade, New 

St, Birmingham B2 4JH 

0121 632 5445 

The Country Girl 

1 Raddlebarn Rd, 

Birmingham B29 6HJ 

0121 472 7639 


EAT, DRINK, 

& BE MERRY 




COUTURE QUEEN 


12 DAYS OUT 




Other Restaurants 

Turtle Bay 

Carribean Restaurant 

81-91, John Bright St, 

Birmingham, B1 1BL 

0121 643 1303 

Carat Bistro 

Carribean Restaurant 

27 Warstone Lane, 

Birmingham, B18 6QJ, 

0121 236 0519 

Red Peppers 

Greek Restaurant 

The Mailbox, 117, 

Wharfside St, 

Birmingham, B1 1RF 

0121 643 4202 

Byzantium 

Mediterranean 

Restaurant 

11 York Rd, 

Birmingham, B14 7SA 

0121 444 5444 

Auntie Agatha’s 

Caribbean Takeaway 

17A High St, 

Kings Heath, B14 7BB 

0121 441 2562 

auntieagathas.co.uk 

Fiesta Del Asado 

Latin American 

Restaurant 

229 Hagley Rd, 

Birmingham, B16 9RP 

0121 455 9331 

Al Bader Restaurant 

Middle Eastern 

178-182 Ladypool Rd, 

Birmingham, B12 

0121 773 9818 

Arabian Nites 

Middle Eastern 

Restaurant 

54-76 Bissell Street, 

Digbeth, B5 7HP 

0121 622 2845 

The Wilderness 

1 Dudley St, 

Birmingham B5 

0121 643 2673 

Sabai Sabai 

Thai Restaurant 

25 Woodbridge Rd, 

Birmingham, B13 8EH 

0121 449 4498 

Chaophraya 


Thai Restaurant 

Spiceal St, Bullring, 

Birmingham, B5 4BW 

0121 643 2424 

Istanbul Restaurant 

Turkish Restaurant 

2 Stockwell Rd, 

Birmingham, B21 9RJ 

0121 448 5223 

Lokman Sofrasi 

Turkish Restaurant 

381 Dudley Rd, 

Birmingham, B18 4HB 

0121 454 4999 

EVENT 

PROMOTION 




available 


t: 0121 230 8333 

e: sales@inthecitymag.com 

Blue Piano 

South-East Asian 

Restaurant 

26 Harborne Road 

Birmingham, B15 

0121 454 6877 

Selfridges 

English Restaurant 

Upper Mall East, 

Birmingham, B5 4PJ 

0121 600 6869 

Stageside Bar & 

Restaurant 

Deli Bar & Restaurant 

Thorp St, 

Birmingham, B5 4AU 

0844 338 9000 

Las Iguanas 


Restaurant 

The Arcadian, 70, 

Hurst St, Birmingham, 

B5 4TD 

0121 622 4466 

Rodizo Rico 


Restaurant 

207 Wharfside St, 

Birmingham, B1 1RN 

0121 285 2856 

Athens Café Bar Ltd 

Greek Restaurant 

31 Paradise Circus 

Queensway, 

Birmingham, B1 2BJ 

0121 661 8182 

Himalaya Restaurant 

Asian Restaurant 

1716 Bristol Road 

Birmingham, B45 9QD 

0121 453 4336 

Wagamama 

Japanese Restaurant 

The Water's Edge, 66, 

Broad St,Birmingham, 

B1 2HL 

0121 643 7656 

Malsian Restaurants 


Bugis Street Brasserie 

Paradise Place, 

Birmingham, B3 3HJ 

0121 200 2727 

Rofuto 


160 Broad St, 

Paradise Place, 

Birmingham, B15 1DT 

0121 369 8888

BE YOUR OWN BOSS 

WITH IN THE CITY MAGAZINE 

NATIONAL FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE 

HAVE YOUR OWN PIECE OF THE PIE! 

STOKE 

WORCESTER 

IN THE CITY MAGAZINE ARE LOOKING FOR 

ENTHUSIASTIC, PASSIONATE INDIVIDUALS TO HELP US 

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Nightclubs 

Entertainment 

Hotels 

Bars 

Nightingale Club 

Essex House, Kent St, 

Birmingham, B5 6RD 

0121 622 1718 

Bushwackers 

103 Edmund Street, 

Birmingham B3 2HZ 

0121 236 4992 

The Chameleon 


1 Victoria Square, Hill St, 

Birmingham B1 1BD 

0121 643 2233 

thechameleonbham.co.uk 

Legs 11 

193 Broad St, 

Birmingham, B15 1AY 

0121 665 6660 

Mechu 

59 Summer Row 

Birmingham, B3 1JJ 

0121 212 1661 

Medusa Gentlemans Club 

142 Suffolk St, 

Queensway, 

Birmingham B1 1LN 

0121 643 2442 

Spearmint Rhino 

64 Hagley Rd, 

Birmingham, B16 8PF 

0121 455 7656 

Nuvo 

11 Brindley place, 

2 Brunswicksquare, 

Birmingham, B1 2LP 

0121 631 1600 

nuvobar.com 

Bambu 

Kotwall House, 

1 Wrottesley St, 

Birmingham B5 4RT 

0121 622 4124 

Myyst 

Unit A304, The Arcadian, 

70 Hurst Street, 

Birmingham B5 4TD 

0121 695 1191 

Pryzm 

182 Broad St, 

Birmingham B15 1DA 

0121 667 4535 

The Rainbow 

160 Digbeth, 

Birmingham B12 0LD 

0121 753 1818 

New Alexandra Threatre 

Suffolk St, Queensway, 

Birmingham, B5 4DS 

0844 871 3011 

The Crescent Theatre 


Birmingham, B16 8AE 

0121 643 5858 

Hippodrome Theatre 

Hurst St, Southside, 

Birmingham, B5 4TB 

0844 338 5000 

Bowlplex Birmingham 

Bowling alley 

Broadway Plaza, 

Birmingham B16 8LP 

0844 477 0491 

Cineworld Cinema 

Resorts World 

Birmingham, 181 Broad 

St, Birmingham B15 1DA 

0871 200 2000 

Odeon Cinema 

220 Ladywood 

Middleway, 


0333 006 7777 

Boutique Hotels 

4* 

The Edgbaston Boutique 

Hotel 

18 Highfield Rd, 

Birmingham B15 3DU 

0121 454 5212 

Saint Pauls House 

14 St Paul's Square, 

Birmingham B3 1RB 

0121 272 0999 

saintpaulshouse.com 

Hotel Indigo Birmingham 

The Cube, Wharfside St, 

Birmingham B1 1RS 

0121 643 2010 

Hotel La Tour 

Albert St, 

Birmingham B5 5JE 

0121 718 8000 

Malmaison 

The Mailbox, 1, Wharfside, 

Birmingham, B1 1RD 

0131 468 5000 

Hotel Du Vin 

25 Church St, 

Birmingham, B3 2NR 

0121 794 3005 

4* 

Ramada Hotel 

160, Wharfside St, The 

Mailbox, 

Birmingham, B1 1RL 

0121 643 9344 

The Grand Hotel 

Hortons Estate Ltd 

33-34 Paradise Street 


B1 2AJ 

0121 236 6481 

Macdonald Burlington 

Hotel 

Burlington Arcade, 

Birmingham, B2 4JQ 

0344 879 9019 

Hyatt Regency 


2 Bridge St, Birmingham, 

B1 2JZ 

0121 643 1234 

Radisson Blu Hotel 

12 Holloway Circus 

Queensway, 

Birmingham, B1 1BT 

0121 654 6000 

Marriott 

12, Hagley Rd, Fiveways, 

Birmingham, B16 8SJ 

0121 452 1144 

The Hilton Hotel 

The NEC Birmingham, 

Pendigo Way, Birmingham 

B40 1PP 

0121 780 4242 

The Belfry 

Sutton Coldfield, 


B76 9PP 

01675 238 600 

Crowne Plaza 

Holliday Street, 

Birmingham, B1 1HH 

0871 4234828 

Penthotel Birmingham 

Holloway Head, 

Birmingham, B1 1NS 

0121 622 8800 

Copthorne Hotel 


Paradise Circus 

Queensway, 

Birmingham, B3 3HJ 

0121 200 2727 

Zaras 

80 Broad St, Five Ways, 

Birmingham, B15 1AU 

0121 643 3334 

zara bar.co.uk 

The Alchemist 

Colmore Row, 

Birmingham B3 2DA 

0121 200 2377 

Browns 


7 Spiceal Street, 

Birmingham B5 4BH 

0121 643 8708 

The Chameleon 

Restaurants & Bar 

1 Victoria Square, 

Birmingham, B1 1BD 

0121 643 2233 

thechameleonbham.co.uk 

All Bar One 

12G-13G, Water's Edge, 


Birmingham, B1 2HL 

0121 644 5861 

Harvey Nichols 


65 The Mailbox, Wharfside 

St, Birmingham, B1 1RE 

0121 616 6000 

Gingers Bar 

11 Newhall St, 

Birmingham, B3 3NY 

0121 200 1588 

Jekyll & Hyde 

28 Steelhouse Lane, 

Birmingham, B4 6BJ 

0121 236 0345 

Nuvo 

11, Brindleyplace, 

2 Brunswick Square, 


0121 631 1600 

nuvobar.com 

Viva Brazil 

7 Bennets Hill, 

Birmingham, B2 5ST 

0121 212 1020 

Pitcher & Piano 

The Water’s Edge, 


Birmingham B1 2HP 

0121 643 0214 

Bank 

4 Brindleyplace 


0121 633 4466 

The Botanist 

14-16 Temple St, 

Birmingham, B2 5BG 

0121 600 7430

EdmundsAdDec16_Layout 1 25/11/2016 17:41 Page 1 

CHEF DE CUISINE 

Didier Philipot 

“Food is our passion, 

Wine is our pleasure” 

Christmas Lunch £29.50 

Christmas Dinner £49.50 

Christmas Tasting Menu £70.00 

New Years Eve Tasting Menu £85.00 

WINNER OF 2 AA Rosettes 2016 

All Christmas diners will receive a Voucher for 

up to 30% off to spend on food in January 

6 Brindleyplace, Birmingham, B1 2JB 

T: 0121 633 4944 

E: info@edmundsrestaurant.com W: edmundsrestaurant.com

105 Vyse Street 

Jewellery Quarter 


B18 6LP 

Tel: 0121 236 2426 

info@sonnysjewellery.com 

sonnysjewellery.com

ITC_Birmingham_issue 9(WEB)

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