J'AIME MAY 2019

M AY 2 0 1 9 

J’AIME 

Y O U R L O C A L L U X U R Y L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E 

WIN 

A GIN-MAKING 

EXPERIENCE IN 

BIRMINGHAM 

RACING TO THE TOP: 

KELVIN FLETCHER ON 

LIFE AFTER EMMERDALE 

BBC Good Food 

Show Summer 

tickets up for grabs 

Your transitional 

wardrobe covered

Welcome to J’AIME 

As we head into the - hopefully! - warmer 

months, we’ve got a mouth-watering 

issue lined up for you, packed with plenty 

of goodies which are sure to tickle your 

tastebuds. 

As a gin lover myself, I’m excited to 

introduce our new columnist - Midlands 

gin expert The Gintleman, who will be 

talking all things gin and bringing you 

the latest trending tipples every month. 

This month he’s also lined up a cracking 

competition, offering two lucky readers a 

place on a fantastic gin-making experience at 

Birmingham’s very own city centre distillery 

and the home of Roundhouse Gin. You’ve 

got to be ‘gin’ it to win it! 

And it doesn’t stop there for foodie lovers 

and drinks aficionados, as the BBC Good 

Food Show Summer gets set to return to the 

NEC - and you could also bag one of five 

pairs of tickets to the star-studding culinary 

extravaganza. 

Elsewhere, we’ve had an exclusive chat 

with soap star-turned-racing driver Kelvin 

Fletcher - known to millions as Emmerdale’s 

Andy Sugden - about his return to the 

small screen and his racing partnership 

with J’AIME’s very own columnist Martin 

Plowman as the new season gets underway. 

With your usual mix of favourites, from the 

best interiors trends to the tastiest recipes 

and the most stylish new season wardrobe 

solutions and beauty fixes, it’s another jampacked 

edition. We hope you enjoy! 

EDITOR: AMY NORBURY 

EDITOR@JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM 

ADVERTISING: JAN ASHLEY 

ADVERTISING@JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM 

07388 335 931 

DESIGN: DESIGN@JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM 

CONTRIBUTORS: MARTIN PLOWMAN, JACK 

REGAN, NATHAN COLLINS, RAUL ROMERO, 

LISA PIDDINGTON, JILL HARTLEY, JULIETTE KEY, 

PETE HAW, THE GINTLEMAN 

J’AIME IS PUBLISHED BY ASHBURY 

PUBLICATIONS LIMITED AND PRINTED 

BY KEP LIMITED, TAMWORTH. 

Check us out online at: 

WWW.JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM 

Find us on 

/JAIMEMAGAZINE 

@JAIMEMAGAZINE 

@JAIMEMAGAZINE 

3

CONTENTS 

InsideJ’aime this month... 

6 Kelvin Fletcher - The soap star-turned-racing 

driver on his return to the small screen 

12 Property - Property of the month 

14 Interiors - Coastal chic 

18 Interiors - Ahead of the curve 

24 Richard Winterton - Uncovering treasures 

at St Mary’s 

26 Competition - Win tickets to BBC Good Food 

Show Summer at the NEC 

30 Food & drink - Reviewing Tattu Birmingham 

32 Food & drink - Cocktail of the month from Le 

Rêve, Lichfield 

34 Food & drink - The Gintleman discusses all 

things gin, plus win a gin experience 

36 Food & drink - Lighter wines for summer from 

Indulgence 

38 Food & drink - Award-winning beers from a 

Birmingham brewery 

40 Health - Raul Romero looks at the magic of 

TRX workouts 

42 Life on the edge - Jack Regan tackles a spot of 

Rogue Play 

46 Travel - Colourful Cuba 

50 What’s On - Our pick of events around our 

area this month 

52 What’s On - The hottest tickets around 

Birmingham 

54 Fashion - Transitional cover-ups 

56 Fashion - Earn your fashion stripes with 

Nero e Bianco 

60 Beauty - Must-try face masks from Harvey 

Nichols Birmingham 

62 Health - Deaf Awareness Week 

63 Health - The power of Pilates 

64 In the news - A successful first year in business 

65 Motors - Martin Plowman gets hyped up over 

hypercars 

4

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FEATURE 

Daring to bare 

SOAP STAR-TURNED-RACING DRIVER KELVIN FLETCHER RETURNS TO THE SMALL SCREEN THIS MONTH TO BARE 

ALL IN THE NAME OF CHARITY ON ITV’S THE ALL NEW MONTY: WHO BARES WINS. HE CHATS EXCLUSIVELY TO 

AMY NORBURY ABOUT LIFE AFTER EMMERDALE AND FORMING A WINNING PARTNERSHIP WITH J’AIME’S OWN 

RACE ACE MARTIN PLOWMAN 

KELVIN FLETCHER 

RETURNS TO THE SMALL 

SCREEN IN ITV’S THE ALL 

NEW MONTY 

While he’s perfectly at home in front of the TV 

cameras thanks to 20 years as one of the most wellknown 

faces on one of the country’s most popular 

soaps, Kelvin Fletcher’s latest small screen outing sees 

him reveal, well, a little more than we’re used to. 

Following on from the success of last year’s The 

Real Full Monty, Kelvin is one of a fresh set of stars 

who took to the challenge of learning a super-sized 

routine from scratch, before revealing all to the 

nation in a 90-minute special to demonstrate the 

importance of shedding body inhibitions and making 

checks in intimate areas to prevent cancer. 

With a new name, a new line-up and all new 

routines the BAFTA-nominated programme will 

see hosts Alexander Armstrong and Ashley Banjo 

marshalling the famous novices through their moves 

and whipping them into shape to perform a frenzyinducing 

striptease. They hope to build on the 

impact of last year to keep key health messages about 

regular checks for testicular and prostate cancer at 

the forefront of the nation’s minds. 

Kelvin is joined by Love Island winner Jack Fincham, 

King of the Jungle Joe Pasquale, Strictly Come 

Dancing’s Gorka Marquez, snooker legend Willie 

Thorne, Crimewatch’s Rav Wilding, Dancing on Ice 

star Matt Evers and former footballer Jason Cundy, 

with each participant having stories to tell about how 

cancer has touched the lives of them or those around 

them. 

“I was doing a musical at the end of last year and 

my agent got in touch saying ITV wanted me to do 

this documentary exploring the issue of prostate and 

testicular cancer, and if I’d be willing to go on that 

journey and talk to people who have been affected, 

6

with a view to understanding why there is such a 

reluctance among men when it comes to getting 

themselves checked,” explains Kelvin. 

“And at the end of the journey the idea is that we’re 

willing to bare all in front of an audience. It’s a little 

bit tongue-in-cheek, but the message is that if I’m 

willing to get my kit off in front of millions of people 

then hopefully it’ll be the catalyst for guys sitting at 

home to think they’ve only got to bare all in front 

of their doctors in a professional capacity to get 

themselves checked out.” 

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among 

men in the UK, accounting for some 26 per cent 

of new cancer cases according to the latest statistics 

from Cancer Research UK. And early diagnosis 

is crucial; when 

diagnosed at its 

earliest stage, all 

men with prostate 

cancer will survive 

their disease for 

five years or more, 

compared with less 

than a third of men 

when diagnosed at 

the latest stage. 

“It’s saved lives; 

people have, on 

the back of that 

programme, gone 

and got themselves 

checked and it’s one 

of those diseases 

that, if diagnosed 

KELVIN AND MARTIN’S 

NEW CAR FOR THE 2019 

BRITISH GT SEASON 

early on, the survival rate is very 

positive,” Kelvin says. 

“Initially the thought of getting my 

kit off in front of millions of people 

seemed a little bit too far fetched, 

but when I spoke to producers and I 

watched the show from last year, and 

got a real understanding of it, the 

‘taking your clothes off’ bit became 

just a small part of the overall 

programme. And it was such a lovely 

programme to watch last year, really 

informative and quite emotional at 

times. So I was really happy to do it. 

“The guys I met were absolutely 

incredible, and it’s probably been 

the best job I’ve ever done. The 

camaraderie between us was 

amazing, even though we’re all so 

different and with such different career paths, young 

and old and all different body shapes. 

“Everyone had a connection to the cancers; one of 

the guys is actually suffering from prostate cancer at 

the minute, another has had testicular cancer, two 

of the lads’ dads aren’t very well at the minute with 

prostate cancer and my father-in-law had prostate 

cancer, so there was a personal connection for 

everyone which made it hit home any more. 

“And the night we actually did it was electric; we all 

just embraced it, no reluctance, just looked forward 

to the big reveal.” 

It’s been a hectic few months for Kelvin; as well as 

The All New Monty, he recently returned to present 

A CONTEMPLATIVE 

MOMENT DURING A 

RACE WEEKEND 

7

Channel 5’s Springtime on the Farm, following a 

successful first series last year, all while busy with 

preparations for the new British GT racing season 

which gets underway imminently. 

“I’m a big fan of documentary and factual-type 

television, so when the production company 

approached me last 

year to help present 

Springtime on the Farm 

I was really happy to do 

it,” Kelvin says. 

“It’s very different to 

what I’d done before 

as an actor, and I was 

able to be myself and 

immerse myself in the 

lives of the characters I 

met along the way. And 

when they asked me 

back this year, I jumped 

at it - and it’s been 

really good, something 

a little bit different. 

“As an actor you’re 

KELVIN AND TEAM- 

MATE, J’AIME’S MARTIN 

PLOWMAN 

hiding behind the character and hiding behind 

the lines that have been written by someone 

else, so documentaries can be a little daunting 

I guess when suddenly you’re exposed as 

yourself. But that’s what people want to see; 

that hint of vulnerability and that hint of 

not knowing exactly what was going on, and 

asking the questions that the audience at home 

were probably sitting there wanting to ask. In 

that way, I was kind of an extension of the 

audience.” 

Kelvin’s relaxed attitude and willingness to get 

stuck in with all aspects of farm life made him 

a firm favourite with viewers. 

“Last year I helped out with the lambing which 

was incredible, and I got to do it again this 

year so that was definitely a highlight,” Kelvin 

says. “The farmers told me that no matter how 

many you do, it’s still hugely rewarding; you 

never forget the significance of what you’re 

doing, bringing new baby lambs or baby calves 

into the world. 

“I certainly got my hands dirty,” Kelvin laughs. 

“But I didn’t have my hands up the backside of 

anything; that was a bit too far! 

“The programme itself is quite unique so it was 

a little bit of an unknown, but the whole ethos 

is to celebrate British farming and the industry. 

It’s a huge industry and we don’t know an 

awful lot about it.” 

Leaving behind the security of a plum role on one 

of the nation’s favourite television shows may have 

seemed a risky move. But, says Kelvin, he couldn’t 

be happier, not least because the break from the 

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pressures of soapland have allowed him to pursue 

another major passion - motor racing. 

Teaming with professional racing driver and former 

Le Mans winner Martin Plowman, Kelvin has made 

huge strides in the sport, with the duo finishing 

second in the GT4 Pro-Am standings last year. 

“Even though we fell at the last hurdle, last year was 

probably the best year of racing I’ve ever had and 

the results and pace showed,” Kelvin says. 

“I’ve only been endurance racing for the past three 

years and I was really happy with my pace compared 

to Martin, still being a relatively inexperienced 

driver. 

“But my favourite thing is the dynamic with Martin; 

we get on so well and he’s just a good person to be 

around. There’s so much that goes on behind the 

scenes in the lead up the season, it’s so hard to just 

get there in the first place, and you spend so long 

trying to do your absolute best that sometimes you 

forget to enjoy it. 

“But Martin’s brought that enjoyment back for me. 

There’s no real pressure, we just go out and do out 

best, and when we do that the results have looked 

after themselves and we’ve done exceptionally well.” 

And as as the new season gets underway it’s all 

change for the racing duo, with a new team in Aston 

Martin meaning a brand new car. 

“We’re really excited and we’re confident that we’ll 

be reaping the benefits towards the end of the year,” 

says Kelvin. 

“There are only seven race weekends throughout 

the year, and each one is unique and brings its own 

excitement. What I’m making an extra effort this 

year is to make a conscious effort to really take on 

board and appreciate the build-up, and to cherish 

each race. 

“I want to enjoy it as much as I can, but at the same 

time we’re not in it just to take part. The amount 

of work we’ve put in and the support and sponsors 

we’ve got means we want to repay that investment. 

“Being an actor, there’s a good chance I’m never 

going to be taken too seriously as a racing driver, 

that’s just the way it is. It doesn’t really bother 

me; at the beginning I wanted to change people’s 

perceptions but it’s not really in my control. I just do 

my own thing and I’m confident in what I’m capable 

of doing. 

“I’m proud of my achievements so far. I started 

racing at 28 just for fun, and six years later I’ve 

signed a professional contract. I applied the exact 

same ethos to racing as I did to acting; I started it as 

a hobby and found I had a knack for it, worked hard 

and stuck at it. 

“And now I’ve been an actor for nearly 30 years and 

I’m still being a success, so hopefully I can apply the 

same to racing and it’ll be a similar story.” 

The All New Monty: Who Bares Wins is on 

ITV this month, while the British GT season 

is now underway, with Kelvin and Martin 

Plowman racing at Snetterton on May 18 

and 19. 

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PROPERTY 

Property of the Month 

WE TAKE A SNEAKY PEEK AT SOME OF THE HOTTEST PROPERTIES ON THE MARKET IN 

THE AREA EACH MONTH. THIS MONTH’S SELECTION IS A GLORIOUS FIVE-BEDROOM 

MANSION OFFERING THE ULTIMATE IN LUXURIOUS FAMILY LIVING 

Orchard Manor, The Orchards, Four Oaks Estate, Sutton Coldfield: £4,000,000 

On the market with Aston Knowles: 0121 362 7878 

THE AGENT SAYS: An extraordinary Arts & Crafts residence, 

with over 10,000 square feet of accommodation set over three floors, 

Orchard Manor is located on a private plot, nestled in the corner 

of The Orchards situated off Ladywood Road, one of the most 

desirable roads on the Four Oaks Estate. 

Orchard Manor is an impressive family residence, offering 

exceptional living accommodation and entertainment facilities. 

The property benefits from underfloor heating and Luton home 

automation. 

The accommodation commences in the reception hallway. From 

here the main entertainment areas together with the first-floor 

accommodation can be accessed. The study, which looks out over 

the front of the property, can be accessed from the reception hallway 

and is an ideal place for working from home, as it is set apart from 

the entertainment areas and provides a quiet haven that enables 

productivity. 

The double oak doors to the left of the reception hall lead to the 

principal drawing room which spans the entire left side of the main 

house. 

Leading on from the garden room is the open plan kitchen/family/ 

breakfast room. This generous-sized space allows for modern family 

living, with a stunning Clive Christian style statement luxury kitchen 

area. 

The master bedroom suite has a delightful view of the rear garden 

and features a dedicated sitting area, as well as a spacious dressing 

room and a large en suite bathroom. The guest bedroom suite has a 

walk-in wardrobe and en suite bathroom, and there are two further 

substantial bedrooms with en suite shower rooms. 

The leisure complex situated on the lower ground floor provides the 

ultimate area for relaxation and fun. The basement can be accessed 

from the first-floor entertainment room as well as from the reception 

hallway and consists of a highly modern leisure complex, complete 

with heated swimming pool, whirlpool, steam room, sauna, and 

home gym. 

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12

INTERIORS 

Ship 

shape 

INJECT a touch of Mediterranean style into your home 

with this season’s interiors take on coastal chic. 

Like the first hit of heat when you step off the plane, 

the coastal trend brings that yearned-for vacation vibe 

to your home for SS19. It’s reminiscent of a holiday 

hideaway nestled in a coastal fishing village, with a base 

of cool whites and neutrals brought to life with bursts of 

azure blue. 

Relaxed, rustic, but oh so refined, the trend brings 

sophistication to the coastal look with lanterns inspired 

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fresh updates on classic nautical prints. 

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F E AT U R E 

Treasure tales 

THERE ARE TREASURES GALORE BEING UNCOVERED RIGHT IN THE CENTRE OF LICHFIELD - 

THANKS TO A NEW SPECIALIST WEEKLY VALUATION BY RICHARD WINTERTON AUCTIONEERS 

Imagine finding thousands of pounds 

tucked away in the back of a dressing 

table drawer or bedside cabinet. 

An heirloom, a keepsake, that old 

curiosity; whatever it is could be just 

a trinket. Or it could be some serious 

treasure… 

Such a triumphant revelation may be 

closer than you think – all you need to 

do is speak to the right people. 

Luckily, that expert advice is easily on 

hand thanks to Lichfield’s Richard 

Winterton Auctioneers. 

The family firm – which has been 

auctioneering in the city for seven 

generations – has launched weekly 

valuations specialising in jewellery and 

watches right in the beating heart of 

Lichfield city centre. 

Between 10am and 4pm every Monday 

(except Bank Holidays), gemmologists, 

jewellery experts and watch specialists 

will be upstairs at St Mary’s in the 

Market Square giving free valuations, 

advice and help uncovering the story 

behind the treasure in hand. 

The line-up will include gemmologist Heather 

Callaway, vintage jewellery expert Louise Ludlam- 

Snook and watch valuer Ben Winterton. 

The regular event had a most auspicious start, too, 

when on the very first Monday last month a woman 

dropped in with a very special item… 

It was a large single-stone diamond ring, the 

transitional brilliant cut diamond measuring 9mm in 

diameter and boasting a calculated weight of 2.67ct. 

The ring’s shoulders are also set with diamonds 

weighing 0.16ct. 

Heather estimates the piece will fetch between 

£10,000 and £12,000 at auction in the Fine and 

Decorative Arts Sale on June 19. 

A beautiful find in a fittingly beautiful space, St 

Mary’s reopened at the end of last year following 

a visionary £1.4m transformation which saw the 

Grade II* listed building incorporate Lichfield 

Library. 

THE VERY FIRST VALUATION AT ST MARY’S UNCOVERED 

THIS FABULOUS SINGLE-STONE 2.67CT DIAMOND RING, 

WHICH IS ESTIMATED TO FETCH BETWEEN £10,000 AND 

£12,000 AT AUCTION 

In early 2019, a “perfect” partnership was 

announced between Richard Winterton Auctioneers 

and The Guild Of St Mary’s – a registered 

charity – blending heritage, culture, education and 

entertainment, reflecting the ethos of both. 

As well as the free valuations and an ever-changing 

Fine Arts display, plans are in the pipeline for a 

special luxury sale at St Mary’s on July 15, with 

proceeds going to the We Love Lichfield fund, a 

charity for which Richard Winterton Auctioneers has 

raised £3,000 in the past year. 

“The new look St Mary’s is just stunning – the 

moment I saw the redevelopment I was utterly 

captivated. It is a lovely space and we are proud and 

privileged to be a part of it,” said Richard Winterton. 

As well as the Mondays at St Mary’s, free valuations 

of jewellery, watches, antiques and all manner of 

collectables are offered at The Lichfield Auction 

Centre off Wood End Lane, Fradley Park, every 

Tuesday between 9.30am-4pm. Call 01543 251081 

or email office@richardwinterton.co.uk. 

24

Richard Winterton Auctioneers has 

presented another £1,000 to We Love 

Lichfield, bringing the total raised so far in 

just one year to £3,000. 

The money has come from the family firm 

auctioning off items donated to charity by 

customers, and We Love Lichfield patron 

Simon Price was recently presented with a 

cheque by Richard Winterton at his Lichfield 

Auction House. The Bargain Hunt regular 

said he was delighted to have had We Love 

Lichfield as one of his chosen charities for the 

past year, and is committed to raising more 

funds in the future. 

“It’s a real privilege to be able to present 

£1,000 to such an important fund which 

helps so many small local voluntary-run 

clubs and projects,” said Richard. “These 

organisations are the life-blood of our 

communities, doing so much good work, and 

I thank the We Love Lichfield team for giving 

up their time to help them.” 

Richard Winterton Auctioneers have lots of 

projects planned for 2019 to help raise more 

for We Love Lichfield. 

Simon Price, Patron of We Love Lichfield 

said: “Richard and his team are fantastic 

supporters of We Love Lichfield and of 

the district. Everyone town, city or district 

needs people and companies like Richard 

Winterton who really care about where they 

live and are able to make a difference. I’d 

like to thank everyone involved for their 

continued support which is heartwarming 

and we are very much excited by their future 

fundraising plans.” 

We Love Lichfield is a local fund providing 

small grants to a wide range of projects 

across Lichfield district. All donations are 

invested through a permanent endowment 

fund by registered charity The Community 

Foundation for Staffordshire. We Love 

Lichfield considers all applications from local 

groups and makes presentations to the 

organisations chosen twice a year. 

SIMON PRICE, PATRON OF WE LOVE 

LICHFIELD, WITH AUCTIONEER 

RICHARD WINTERTON 

25

CO M P E T I T I O N 

A taste of summer 

THE BBC GOOD FOOD SHOW SUMMER RETURNS TO THE NEC BIRMINGHAM 

FROM JUNE 13 TO 16 - AND YOU COULD WIN ONE OF FIVE PAIRS OF TICKETS 

The BBC Good Food Summer takes over the second 

city for four fabulous days next month, packed with 

the latest products and inspirational tips and advice 

topped with a host of famous faces. 

As well as hundreds of exhibitors, the show brings 

a star-studded line-up of some of the country’s 

favourite chefs, including Mary Berry, Tom Kerridge, 

Nadiya Hussain, Ainsley Harriott and many more 

who will all be cooking live on stage in the Big 

Kitchen. With interviews, book signings and brand 

new masterclasses galore, there will be plenty to keep 

every foodie fan entertained. 

Browse, shop and taste your way around an amazing 

selection of hand-picked artisan producers and 

well-known brands. From the latest and innovative 

kitchen gadgets to the freshest seasonal produce and 

exciting products, dive into a food lover’s paradise 

and discover new delicious flavours just in time for 

summer. 

Tickets also include entry to BBC Gardeners’ 

World Live, where you can experience stunning 

Show Gardens and pick up advice from top 

gardening experts including Monty Don, Carol 

MARY BERRY WILL BE RETURNING 

TO THE NEC FOR BBC GOOD 

FOOD SHOW SUMMER 

Klein and Alan Titchmarsh. 

It’s the ultimate summer day out for real food 

and garden lovers – all in one ticket! 

For information and ticket details, visit www. 

bbcgoodfoodshow.com/birmingham-summer 

The competition 

J’AIME HAS TEAMED UP WITH BBC GOOD FOOD SHOW SUMMER AT THE NEC BIRMINGHAM TO 

OFFER LUCKY READERS THE CHANCE TO WIN ONE OF FIVE PAIRS OF TICKETS TO THE SHOW. 

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, SIMPLY ANSWER THE 

FOLLOWING QUESTION: 

Name a celebrity chef who will be appearing at this summer’s 

BBC Good Food Show at the NEC Birmingham. 

Send your answer, along with with your name, email address and postcode by email to competitions@jaimemagazine.com with BBC 

Good Food Show Summer competition as the email subject. Entries must be received by 5pm on Friday, May 31, and our winners 

will be notified by Wednesday, May 5. 

Terms and conditions apply. The event runs from June 13-16, 2019, at the NEC Birmingham. Tickets only valid on Thursday, Friday 

or Sunday; excludes Saturday admission. Prize includes 2 x entry passes – no travel, expenses or accommodation is provided. 

Complimentary tickets do not include theatre seats in the Big Kitchen - Big Kitchen tickets are available to purchase on the day, 

subject to availability. Not all celebrities appear on all days. Contact information will be supplied to third party who will distribute 

winning tickets to you via email. The prize is for five pairs of general admission tickets, so there will be five winners. Prize cannot 

be swapped for cash or sold on. Visit www.jaimemagazine.com for more details. 

26

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F O O D & D R I N K 

Go nuts for lamb 

BBC GOOD FOOD SHOW SUMMER STAR AINSLEY HARRIOTT SHARES A SIMPLE YET 

IMPRESSIVE DISH WITH JUST FIVE INGREDIENTS – PERFECT FOR A WEEKEND FAMILY FEAST 

PISTACHIO NUT CRUST RACK OF LAMB 

INGREDIENTS: 

50g butter 

50g shelled pistachio nuts 

50g fresh white breadcrumbs 

2 x 7-bone racks of lamb, each about 675g 

2 teaspoons prepared English mustard 

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 

METHOD: 

Melt the butter in a small pan or in the 

microwave. Place in a food processor with 

the pistachio nuts and bread crumbs and 

blitz until you have achieved fine crumbs. 

Season to taste. 

Place the racks of lamb on a chopping 

board and, using a pastry brush, spread the 

mustard thickly over the fat side of each 

rack. Cover with the pistachio nut crust using 

your hands press it down, moulding it over 

the lamb. Arrange the lamb, coated side 

up, on a baking sheet and chill for at least 

30 minutes, or up to two hours, to allow the 

crust to ‘set’. Remove from the fridge 10 

minutes before cooking. 

Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6. Place 

the racks of lamb in a small roasting tin and 

roast for 20 minutes per 450 grams plus 20 

minutes for pink lamb, or longer if you prefer 

your meat well done. Remove the lamb from 

the oven and set aside in a warm place to 

rest for 10 to 15 minutes, then carefully carve 

into chops and serve on warmed plates. 

Serve with new potatoes and spring 

vegetables or a green salad. 

Original recipe taken from Ainsley 

Harriott’s Just Five Ingredients, published 

by BBC Books. Catch Ainsley at BBC Good 

Food Show Summer on Saturday, June 

15 when the show returns to the NEC 

Birmingham. 

28

Call 01543 505539 

for a brochure 

Our skilled craftsmen can create 

any type of design, from ultra-modern 

to classically traditional 

As an alternative if you cannot part 

with your existing suite, we offer 

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service that goes above and 

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Tel: 01543 505539 

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May 2018 

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Visit our website for a virtual tour of our showroom 

57


Opposites attract 

ANCIENT PHILOSOPHIES MEET MODERN CULINARY CREATIONS FOR ONE OF BIRMINGHAM’S 

NEWEST - AND MOST IMPRESSIVE - RESTAURANT OPENINGS, AS AMY NORBURY DISCOVERS 

When it comes to high-concept restaurants, 

there’s always a worry that style takes 

precedence over substance. And while 

modern Chinese eatery Tattu - a new 

addition to Birmingham’s business district - 

certainly goes all-in with the design concept, 

there’s certainly no shortage of substance to 

back it up. 

The 160-cover, split-level restaurant 

occupies a charming space within the city’s 

historic Grand development, and takes 

its inspiration from the ancient Chinese 

philosophy of Yin Yang. 

The space itself is simply stunning, using 

the concept of light versus dark to glorious 

effect. The ground floor bar - which is also 

home to the private dining room - embodies the 

light and masculine Yang side of the concept, with 

reflective gold finishes and temple-like rock creating 

a warm and engaging space, perfect for enjoying a 

cocktail or two before or after dining. 

Venture downstairs into the main restaurant and 

the mood shifts towards the dark, immersive Yin 

side, where oriental fretwork cocoons cosy booths 

and walls are lined with granite, while the stunning 

centrepiece is the canopy of beautiful cherry blossom 

trees, which perfectly encapsulate the more feminine 

element of Yin. 

Having already sampled the delights of Tattu’s 

original Manchester venue, we couldn’t resist giving 

Birmingham - the third and largest in the group - a 

try. 

The restaurant was already packed when we arrived, 

certainly impressive for an early midweek evening, 

and we were shown to one of the aforementioned 

booths, a prime spot directly under the gorgeous 

blossom. 

We immediately decided to sample one of Tattu’s 

signature cocktails while perusing the substantial 

menu offerings; a refreshing and fragrant Apple 

Blossom, £9, with gin, apple and jasmine for me, 

and an impressive Elixir of Life, £10, for my guest, 

a heady combination of gin, elderflower and vanilla, 

complete with dry ice smoke to add a touch of 

theatre. 

The menu is separated into dim sum, small plates 

and main dishes, as well as a selection of sides to 

complete your meal, with each dish sounding more 

mouth-watering than the last. 

New season offerings include the rock shrimp and 

scallop gau with cucumber and wasabi tobiko, £8, 

on the dim sum menu, with small plates including 

delicious red roast loin ribs with yellow bean, 

kumquats and star anise, £10, and koi fish mini bao 

with tempura cod, edamame mash and crispy sweet 

potato, £8. 

30

Joining the main dish selection is a lotus leaf miso 

chicken with shiitake mushroom, pak choi and sticky 

chilli rice, £19, and an all-new take on the perennial 

favourite crispy aromatic duck pancakes, £20. 

If you’re faced with a case of menu blindness, there 

is also a selection of set offerings priced from £35 

per person for the vegetarian option, right up to £98 

per person for the Emperor’s Choice, which features 

the likes of chilli and sesame roasted scallops, whole 

lobster and Japanese black wagyu ribeye. 

We decided to share a couple of selections from each 

part of the menu, starting off with the mixed dim 

sum basket, £12, and chicken truffle shumai, £7.50, 

as well as a small plate of black cod croquettes, £9. 

Service was slick and speedy, and our friendly 

waitress was soon back with a tempting array of 

bites. The mixed dim sum included the new rock 

shrimp gau, as well as chicken xiao long bao and 

the vivid red wagyu dumplings. These, our waitress 

advised, pack a heady punch of sriracha hot sauce 

so are best left until last so as not to overpower the 

other, more delicate flavours. 

Taking her advice, we got stuck into the chicken 

truffle shumai, glorious little parcels packed with the 

most flavoursome chicken and topped with freshly 

shaved truffle, all sat in a salty soy broth. They were, 

we agreed, little morsels of heaven. 

The black cod croquettes were beautifully crisp, the 

delicate cod filling nicely complemented by a chilli 

garlic aioli which artistically adorned the plate, while 

the dim sum basket offered up a trio of tasty treats, 

the wagyu dumplings a particular highlight. 

There was just time for a couple more cocktails 

before the main event, a gorgeous Cherry Blossom 

Negroni, £10, for me and a heady From China with 

Love, £10, a take on a classic martini flavoured with 

blood orange, for my guest. 

We’d opted for two of Tattu’s signature dishes; 

the wonderfully tender caramel soy beef fillet 

with asparagus and shiitake, £30, and the saffron 

black cod, £30.50, as well as side 

dishes of XO fried rice, £7, and 

the tenderstem broccoli with black 

sesame and truffle, £5, which is 

another new menu addition. 

The beef, thinly sliced and cooked 

a perfect medium-rare, was melt-inthe-mouth 

stuff, with the sweet-salty 

caramel soy dipping sauce offering 

a glorious balance - there’s that 

Yin Yang element coming into play 

again. 

But it was the delicately sweet black 

cod with miso, razor clams and 

Chinese sausage which proved to 

be the highlight of the two, a plate 

which was as pleasing on the eye as 

it was on the palate, adorned with tiny edible flowers 

and offering an explosion of tantalising tastes. 

The XO rice, studded with shrimp, scallop and 

pancetta was a flavoursome accompaniment - and 

a deceptively generous portion. But it was the black 

sesame and truffle paste paired with the lightly 

crunchy broccoli which offered the biggest surprise - 

this was broccoli better than broccoli has ever tasted 

before. 

With the superlative savoury offerings, we were 

almost sorry to be moving onto dessert. And while 

there are a couple of sweet showstoppers, we 

decided on a couple of the more traditional affairs. 

The crispy, chocolate-filled dessert wontons with a 

selection of dips, £8, were just enough to curb the 

sweet cravings, as were the fortune cookies with ice 

cream and sorbets, £7. 

I cracked open a delicately crisp cookie to reveal 

perhaps the most pertinent words I’ve ever seen in 

such circumstances. 

‘When hungry, order more dim sum’. And next time 

yes, I most certainly will. After all, who am I to argue 

with the ancient Chinese wisdom of the fortune 

cookie? Just make mine a chicken truffle shumai. 

31


Cocktail of the month 

JULIETTE KEY, FROM LE RÊVE COCKTAIL BAR IN LICHFIELD, SERVES UP A 

REFRESHING GIN COCKTAIL, PERFECT FOR AL FRESCO SIPPING 

Thyme for Gin 

37.5ml Gin 

12.5ml limoncello 

12.5ml sugar syrup 

12.5ml lemon juice 

1 sprig of thyme 

Bottle of tonic water 

Muddle the thyme and 

the sugar syrup in your 

cocktail shaker then add 

all the ingredients except 

the tonic water. Shake 

over cubed ice and strain 

into a tall glass. Top 

off with your favourite 

tonic water and enjoy! 

Best served with a sprig 

of thyme and a lemon 

wedge, and enjoyed 

outside! 

32

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WS14 9UY 

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ARTHURPRICEINLICHFIELD.CO.UK 

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Please be aware that the shop is located on 

the first floor via a staircase. If access is an 

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viewing by our dedicated customer 

service team.


Let the fun be-gin 

THE GINTLEMAN, THE MIDLANDS’ LEADING GIN RACONTEUR AT HOUSE PARTIES AND VENUES 

THROUGHOUT BIRMINGHAM, SHARES HIS THOUGHTS ON THE SECOND CITY’S IMPACT ON THE 

CURRENT ‘GINNAISSANCE’ AS PART OF OUR NEW COLUMN ON THE LATEST GIN TRENDS 

Birmingham has long been at the forefront of gin. 

The city’s Langley Distillery have been producing 

third party high street brands for generations, and 

10 years ago this month I created The Jekyll & Hyde 

bar on Steelhouse Lane, at the time the country’s 

first dedicated gin bar which had a mind-blowing 

30 gins - today an average home collection for the 

serious gin connoisseur. Added to this, 40 St Paul’s 

in the Jewellery Quarter received the accolade of 

World’s Best Gin Bar earlier this year. 

In March, Birmingham’s very own working gin 

distillery - aptly called The Distillery and based a 

short walk from Brindleyplace and The Barclaycard 

Arena - starting producing the city centre’s first 

commercial gin. Roundhouse Gin is inspired by its 

location adjacent to the 19th century Grade II listed 

stable and stores of the same name, and celebrates 

Birmingham’s industrial past. 

Currently available at selected bars across the city as 

well as to buy direct from the distillery, Roundhouse 

Gin is made in an impressive copper pot still. As well 

as producing their small batch gin and bottling on 

site, the distillery now also offers guests a bespoke 

gin-making experience. 

With prices starting at £100 per person running 

Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoon, visitors 

are taken on a journey, first touching on the history 

of gin. Following this, an in depth look into the 

world of distilling, which includes a breakdown of a 

wide range of botanicals and their flavour profiles; 

leading to a supervised demonstration in the art 

of distilling using a custom recipe unique to each 

individual. As newly skilled distillers, each guest is 

then able to hand label and seal their own creations 

to take away. 

The gin school makes for a fantastic day out for the 

gin fan, team building or client networking. The 

experience typically lasts around two hours with 

regular gin and tonic top-ups included in the price. 

For further details contact The Distillery on 0121 

200 2223 or visit thedistillerybirmingham. 

co.uk and fill out a booking application. 

The competition 

AS PART OF ITS LAUNCH WE’RE OFFERING 

LUCKY READERS THE CHANCE TO WIN ONE 

OF TWO COMPLIMENTARY PLACES ON 

THE COURSE BY ASKING YOU WHICH GIN 

BOTANICAL INGREDIENT WOULD YOU LIKE TO 

SEE IN YOUR OWN GIN BLEND. 

REPLY TO OUR TWITTER OR FACEBOOK 

PAGE @JAIMEMAGAZINE OR SEND 

YOUR ANSWER VIA EMAIL TO 

COMPETITIONS@JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM. 

ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED BY 5PM ON 

FRIDAY, MAY 31. TERMS AND CONDITIONS 

APPLY. SEE WWW.JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM FOR 

FURTHER DETAILS. 

34

Summer Special Events 

Summer Special Events 

Spring Flower 

Arranging Demos 

Tuesday 7th & 

Wednesday 8th May 

Includes a flower arranging 

demonstration and a three 

course carvery lunch 

Senior 

Summer Lunch 

Wednesday 31st July 

A delicious three course lunch 

with entertainment from our 

vintage singer 

Afternoon Tea 

With the Legends 

Sunday 30th June 

Songs from your favourite 

musical legends including Elvis, 

Frank Sinatra, Elton John to 

name a few with our live choir 

Afternoon Tea 

At The Movies 

Sunday 22nd September 


Movies with our live choir 

Afternoon Tea 

at the Musicals 

Sunday 12th May 


musicals with our live choir 

Ascot Ladies’ 

Day Lunch 

Thursday 20th June 

Lunch followed by an afternoon at 

the races courtesy of big screens 

Bob Marley 

Tribute Evening 

Friday 23rd August 

Enjoy a delicious three course 

meal and entertainment 

Party Night 

with Disco 

Friday 14th June 

Enjoy a delicious three course 

meal and disco until 12am 

Afternoon Tea 

of Disney Classics 

Sunday 18th August 


Disney films with our live choir 

Only Fools & 

Three Courses 

Friday 13th September 

Great food and comedy action 

served up Only Fools style 

Visit our website to view all events and to book online 

Visit our website to view all events and to book online 

Bird Street, Lichfield, WS13 6PR 

01543 414822 www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk 

Moor Hall Drive, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield B75 6LN 

0121 308 3751 www.moorhallhotel.co.uk 

POP UP MICHELIN STAR FINE DINING IN LICHFIELD 

WITH SIMON HULSTONE | THE ELEPHANT IN TORQUAY 

Sample Simon’s highly acclaimed cooking without leaving Lichfield! 

SIMON HULSTONE 

CHEF PATRON, 

1 MICHELIN STAR THE 

ELEPHANT IN TORQUAY 

20 MAY 19 | 6 COURSE 

TASTING MENU | £85 +VAT 

THE BARN AT LICHFIELD 

Walsall Rd, Lichfield WS13 8JL 

Experience for yourself why 

Simon has retained his Michelin 

star for 14 years in the relexed 

setting of The Barn at Lichfield. 

@saucesupperclub 

@saucesupperclub 

www.saucesupperclub.co.uk


Look on the light side 

PETE HAW, MANAGER OF INDULGENCE WINE & CHOCOLATE SHOP AT BARTON 

MARINA, TAKES A LOOK AT SOME LIGHTER WINES, PERFECT FOR SUMMER SIPPING 

Has spring sprung? Well we’re feeling optimistic down at the Marina and this month we are tucking into 

these delightful, aromatic wines, perfect for getting you in the mood for warmer weather and sunny skies. 

POESIE SOAVE, VENETO 

To begin with we have a white from Catine di Soave, 

situated in the heart of Soave. The company was set up by 

a group of wine producers in 1900 and now is one of the 

largest independent wine companies in Italy. 

The Soave region is in the northeast of Italy surrounds the 

city of Verona. The landscape consists of sloping hills and 

being a noticeably cooler area of Italy, it is perfect for the 

production of these light, aromatic and delicate whites. 

Made from 100% Garganega, the traditional white grape 

of the area, this Soave is a classic example of this style; 

light straw in colour, with fresh zesty notes and a floral 

bouquet. The finish is mouth-watering and clean, with a 

touch of almonds on the finish. 

An absolute treat with fresh seafood and lighter pasta 

dishes. 

BRANCIFORTI DEI BORDONARO, GRILLO, 

SICILY 

Grillo is the main white grape variety of Sicily and 

responsible for some of the most aromatic and delicate 

wines of the Island. Producer Casa Vinicola Firriato, is 

a relative newcomer to the Sicilian wine scene and crafts 

innovative and exciting wines from the traditional grape 

varieties. 

Traditionally from the west of the Island, Grillo is a 

variety that is able to withstand the high temperatures 

of Sicily. This superb example is straw yellow in colour 

with greenish hues. Displaying an array of fresh, clean 

citrus aromas and delicate floral notes, on the palate there 

is an enveloping texture that is persistent all the way to a 

pleasant finish. 

This wine is a must with seafood, especially shellfish such 

as shrimp, calamari and mussels. 

36

PASSO DEL BRICCO, PATRIZI, PIEMONT 

Hailing from Barolo territory this superb, light red blend 

is perfect for the warmer evenings in the garden. From 

producer Patrizi, a family owned wine producer based 

in Piedmont in the Northwest of Italy. Founded by the 

Manfredi family in the 1930s, their wines are steeped in 

tradition. During the second world war they delivered 

their wine via horse drawn carriage to further the business 

and ensure a constant supply. 

The blend consists on 40% Nebbiolo, 40% Dolcetto and 

20% Barbera, the three most noble red grape varieties of 

Piedmont, Nebbiolo being the most noble and famous for 

the mighty wines of Barolo. A thick-skinned grape that 

produces uniquely floral red wine. 

Piedmont sits in the shadow of the Alps and is one of 

the cooler wine-making regions of Italy, ideal conditions 

for the production of lighter, delicate reds. In this blend 

Nebbiolo brings cherry and floral tones, whereas the 

Dolcetto and Barbera add more red fruit. 

An ideal accompaniment to game dishes and not to be 

missed alongside a wedge of Castelmagno, a mature hard 

cheese from the region. 

BORGO MAGREDO PINOT NERO, FRUILI 

Pinot Nero is the Italian synonym for the iconic Pinot 

Noir grape, and is widely regarded as the most elegant red 

variety. This fine example comes from vines that are 20-25 

years old in the cool region of Fruili – Venezia Giulia. 

Fruili is penned in by the Dolomite mountains and the 

Adriatic sea and is notorious for producing varietal wines 

from local and international varieties. 

Borgo Magredo was founded in 1989 and boasts an array 

of modern and technical wine making facilities, regularly 

experimenting with local and international varieties, 

crafting wines in a modern new world style. 

Pinot Nero is a thin-skinned red grape that produces wines 

with light body and super smooth tannins. A perfect red 

for warmer weather, this is light, juicy and floral. On the 

nose it is distinctively aromatic and perfumed with notes 

of red berries and cherry. The palate is soft and round, 

making this wine an amazingly versatile food wine that 

can be paired with anything from lamb to fish, as well as 

dishes with a spicier edge. 

All wines available in store from Indulgence Wine & Chocolate Shop on Barton Marina, 

which also offers a ‘click and collect’ service online. Visit www.indulgenceshop.co.uk. 

37


Brewed to perfection 

BIRMINGHAM’S DIG BREW BREWERY HAS BOOSTED ITS GLOBAL AMBITIONS AFTER WINNING 

A COMPETITION TO FIND THE BEST UP-AND-COMING CRAFT BEER BREWERS IN THE COUNTRY 

Digbeth craft brewery Dig Brew has been invited 

to brew three new beers on a commercial scale for 

70,000 people at a leading Belgian brewery as one of 

the four winners of this year’s Raise the Bar award. 

The prize also includes an invitation for the Dig 

Brew to showcase its beers at some of the UK’s 

leading craft beer festivals in Edinburgh, Bristol, 

Birmingham and London. 

The competition, run by craft beer festival organisers 

We are Beer in association with the UK-leading 

craft beer subscription service, Beer 52, was open 

to breweries that are less than two years old and 

attracted more than 65 entries. 

Dig Brew entered a lager, stout, fruited sour, 

bitter, IPA, double IPA, session pale ale and a sour 

fruit smoothie beer for tasting, from which the 

judges singled out the lager (called Hell), double 

IPA (Dagger Dagger) and the sour fruit smoothie 

(California) as winners. 

Greg Wells, We are Beer founder and one of the 

judges, said: “Consistently nailing hop-forward 

pales and IPAs as well as roasting stouts, Dig Brew’s 

branding isn’t the only thing putting them in the 

same league as some of the US’s great brewers.” 

The other members of the judging panel were beer 

writer and photographer Matthew Curtis, British 

Guild of Beer Writers Brewer of the Year and Wild 

Card Brewery head brewer Jaega Wise, Earth Station 

brewery founder Jenn Merrick, and Beer 52 buyer 

Callum Stewart. 

Dig Brew will travel to the world-renowned 

Brouwerij De Proef - home of the likes of Mikkeller 

and Omnipollo - in Belgium this month to 

collaborate in the creation of three beers that will be 

delivered to all 70,000 of Beer 52’s UK subscribers. 

It will also showcase its beers at several craft beer 

festivals around the UK - including Beer Central 

England in Birmingham from July 5-6. 

Oliver Webb, who founded Dig Brew with the 

support of Peter Towler of Mad O’Rourke’s Pie 

Factory in Tipton last year, said: “This award is 

thrilling news as we look to establish ourselves within 

the craft beer movement and export our beers 

worldwide. Credit goes to our brewing team. 

“Working with De Proef will result in a guaranteed 

210,000 of our beers being drunk across the UK, 

while participating in some of Britain’s biggest craft 

festivals will bring our beers to the attention of 

buyers from across the globe.” 

Dig Brew brews and distributes a constantly 

changing range of seasonal lagers, stouts, sours and 

pale ales to pubs, bars and off licences nationally 

from its converted industrial premises. Open to the 

public on Fridays from 4pm and Saturdays from 

12pm, it also runs a pizzeria on the premises, as well 

as a bar, and organises a regular programme of food, 

drink, music and art-based events. 

Tickets for the Birmingham craft beer festival are 

now on sale at beercentralfestival.com and The Dig 

Brew Co can be found on Instagram @digbrewco 

DIG BREW’S HELL LAGER 

38

THE BENCH 

FRI 10 MAY 

COMING 

THIS MAY 

The 

Boat Inn 

EXCALIBOW 

SAT 11 MAY 

HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES 

FRI 24 MAY 

DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE 

THUR 30 FRI 31 MAY 

Michelin recommended 

Liam has won numerous awards including the most recent award in 2019 of 

‘Newcomer of the Year’ at the Estrella Top 50 Gastropub Awards. 

He has been awarded‘Best Chef’ at the Midlands Food, Drink & 

Hospitality Awards, beating the likes of Sat Bains, Aktar Islam, and Andy 

Waters to name a few, as well as picking up ‘Best Independent Restaurant’ 

by the Taste of Staffordshire Awards in 2018. 

Formerly of Marcus Wareing at The Berkeley and Restaurant Story Liam 

has worked in some of the UK’s most prestigious kitchens. 

This year he and his team are offering a number of new offers at The Boat! 

· NEW BEER GARDEN & MENU · CHEF COLLABORATIONS 

EVERY MONTH · AFTERNOON TEAS ON REQUEST 

· NETWORKING LUNCHES FIRST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH 

Chef Collaboration Event with Liam and the Kitchen Team 

MON 20TH MAY - Rob Palmer from Michelin starred ‘Peels’ 

restaurant will be joining Liam for a collaboration evening. 

See local press and our website for information 

Call for details - 01543 361692 - Open Wednesday - Sunday 

www.theboatinnlichfield.com · Walsall Road, Lichfield WS14 0BU 

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

• Italian Wines • Enomatic Wine Tasting Machine 

• Irresistible Italian Chocolates 

• The Perfect Italian Coffee with a Chocolate or Pastry 

• Italian Gelato…need we say more 

• Italian Craft Beers, Liqueurs, Gins 

and more… 

Barton Marina Burton upon Trent DE13 8AS 01283 716 062 www.indulgenceshop.co.uk

H E A LT H 

Introducing the TRX Suspension trainer 

WITH THE WARMER WEATHER FAST APPROACHING, NOW IS THE TIME WHERE PEOPLE ARE FLOCKING TO THE GYM 

IN A LAST DITCH ATTEMPT TO GET FIT FOR THE SUMMER. HERE LICHFIELD PERSONAL TRAINER RAÚL ROMERO 

TELLS US HOW THE TRX SUSPENSION TRAINER CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR SUMMER FITNESS GOALS 

I’ve been working in the fitness industry for more 

than 20 years, and year after year I see the same 

pattern emerge after the Easter holidays. Herds of 

people flock back to their gyms and fitness centres in 

a last ditch attempt to achieve their fitness and body 

goals in time for the summer. 

This year, we have eight weeks left until the summer 

season officially hits us, which yes, is enough time to 

make positive, noticeable changes… if you make a 

good plan and start NOW! 

There are a whole array of different exercises, sports, 

fitness sessions and classes to choose from to help us 

achieve our goals. My personal favourite and the one 

piece of equipment I would always recommend to 

my clients for a full body workout is the TRX. 

So what is TRX? 

Quite simply, it is a lightweight, versatile, ‘rope’ 

like piece of equipment that you can use alongside 

your own body weight to develop strength, balance, 

flexibility and core stability simultaneously. 

Why do I recommend the TRX to my clients? 

• It is super versatile! It is simply one, lightweight, 

easily portable piece of equipment that can be 

taken with you wherever you go, and the only thing 

it requires is somewhere to hang it from, and most 

importantly, your own body weight. 

• You can use it pretty much anywhere. 

• It doesn’t cost the earth (anywhere from £100 - 

£200 depending on the model). 

• It will last forever! 

• It is suitable for ALL fitness levels. 

• There are countless studies that show that 

suspension training is highly effective at working 

and improving strength, stamina, power, flexibility 

and balance. 

• It also helps build a solid core. 

• You can achieve a FULL body workout in a very 

short space of time - a 20-30 minute blast is super 

effective. 

• The huge range of exercises that you can do 

with the TRX is staggering. There is never a dull 

moment or chance for boredom to set in with the 

variety of exercises that can be done with the TRX. 

Sound interesting? The great news is that the TRX 

suspension trainer is readily available all over the 

world. The only word of warning to take note of 

when buying the TRX is to ensure it is genuine in 

order to guarantee it’s safety. 

Once you are set with your TRX, here are three 

great exercises to start with: 

40

TRX Squat and Row 

This combination of a squat and a row is brilliant for 

working your back and leg muscles simultaneously, and, 

as the cherry on top, also incorporates cardio into your 

workout to burn even more calories. 

It’s key for ensuring you have correct posture, and the 

intensity can easily be modified by moving your feet 

closer or further away from the anchor point. 

How to do it: With the suspension trainer shortened, 

stand facing the anchor point. Grab the TRX handles 

with an overhand grip and turn your hands so your 

thumbs are facing the ceiling. Bend your elbows to 90 

degrees so the handles are at your rib cage and keep 

your body straight and planked. Keeping hold of the 

handles the whole time, slowly straighten your arms to 

lower your body into a squat and return to the start by 

bending the elbows. You can start working in sets of 

10-15 repetitions or an interval of time (30-45 seconds). 

TRX Lunge 

The TRX lunge is a single-leg bodyweight exercise 

that works your hips, glutes, quads, hamstrings, core, 

and inner thighs. Lunges can help you develop lowerbody 

strength and endurance and, unlike squats, they 

are highly effective at evening out muscle imbalances. 

How to do it: To start, place one foot in both of the 

TRX straps. Press down to put tension on the straps. 

Make sure you’re far enough from the origin of the 

straps so that you are able to bend your front knee to a 

90-degree angle. Keep your weight towards the front 

leg during the entire movement. 

You can start working in sets of 10-15 repetitions for 

each leg or an interval of time (30-45 seconds). 

TRX Plank 

This is one of the most basic, ‘bread and butter’ 

exercises for working on the stomach area and building 

up a strong core. The more it is done, it will also, in 

time help you to perform all other exercises better. 

How to do it: With the straps in a long length 

position, begin by placing your feet into the cradles, 

then lie on your front facing away from the anchor 

point. Drive the heels back into the handles, squeeze 

the calves, quads, glutes, hamstrings and core, and 

press into a perfectly flat plank. You can start by 

working in sets of 30-45 seconds. 

For more information or advice on using the TRX, 

or to book onto a TRX session at the Ambition 

PT studio in the centre of Lichfield (suitable for all 

fitness levels), contact Raúl at raul@ambitionpt. 

co.uk or visit www.ambitionpt.co.uk 

41

F E AT U R E 

Hanging by a thread 

JACK REGAN, A CREATIVE AT TITAN. THE ADVERTISING AGENCY 

IN BIRMINGHAM INDULGES IN A SPOT OF ROGUE PLAY... 

I’m hot, I’m sweating, I’m 

gasping desperate for breath as 

I tear off my skintight clothes. 

My limbs are wrapped in sexy 

silk sheets and I’m going to 

have admit that, yes, that’s my 

mother-in-law tangled up in the 

scarlet bed linen beside me. 

I keep asking myself, how the 

hell did it come to this? What 

lifestyle choices did I make that 

were reckless enough to bring 

us to this bizarre juncture? 

Looks compromising, I know 

but, tsk, tsk, tut, tut, settle down 

at the back of the class there, 

Mary Whitehouse! I’d caution 

you to not judge me too hastily. Or harshly! 

For the record, I’d like it noted that my motherin-law 

and I enjoy a purely platonic relationship 

(a sentence I never dreamed I’d need to compose, 

even in a long writing career as thoroughly 

undistinguished as mine). 

You ought to be ashamed of your thoughts, frankly, 

but let me fish your minds out of the gutter and focus 

you back to the silk sheets, if I may. 

I’m with my mother-in-law doing an aerial circus 

skills class at Rogue Play Theatre (ignore the 

name please!) and we’re being schooled in the 

extraordinarily torturous pursuit of silk climbing. 

To put you in the picture, Rogue Play is in a Digbeth 

warehouse with these gorgeous thick silken sheets 

cascading all the way down from the ceiling. This 

class will instruct us in how to climb, hang and pose 

in ever more extraordinary positions in midair, while 

holding onto these sheets. 

The name of the game here is elegance and grace. 

And anyone who knows me from the late night 

kebab shops, shebeens and flophouses of the Greater 

Glasgow area will surely bear witness to my endless 

elegance and grace. 

By manipulating the silks and maneuvering the body 

and limbs in various ways, one is able to cultivate 

some extraordinarily beautiful postures and poses 

while suspended often high above the ground by the 

shimmering cloth. 

It’s dramatic, athletic and, when executed properly, 

an exquisitely, gloriously balletic thing to see and to 

partake in. 

“We teach people how to hang upside down in a 

variety of different ways”, laughs Kim Charnock, 

Rogue Play’s artistic director. 

“Our mission is to engage people in what is a 

completely new physical art form in the Midlands. 

And we bring some of the world’s greatest circus 

performers from all over the globe to teach people in 

Birmingham skills in silks, ropes and trapeze.” 

Which is a beautiful notion and there won’t be a 

kale-munchin’, yoga-lovin’ snowflake anywhere to 

whom it isn’t eternally appealing but I’m currently 

being Stretch Armstronged and half nelsoned 

backwards while seven feet in the air and have about 

a hectare and a half of silk fabric remorselessly 

wedgying its way up the crack of my backside. 

It is true agony. Somewhere far north of the 

excruciation of childbirth, I’d wager. 

And I am wearing full lycra. That’s right, like a 

superhero. Or a Kardashian. 

42

Jean Lamb Wealth Consultancy 

My offices are situated in the historic city of Lichfield and I have been providing personal 

wealth management advice to my clients for more 

than 25 years. 

I specialise in the following key areas 

and welcome your enquiry: 

• Investment Planning 

• InheritanceTax and Estate Planning 

• Pre and Post-Retirement Planning 

• Care Fees Planning and Funding for Care 

Telephone: 01543 417342 

Website: www.jeanlamb.co.uk 

Email: jean.lamb@sjpp.co.uk 

Office: 6A Market Street, Lichfield, WS13 6LH 

07815 460786 

01827 892952 

Jean Lamb Wealth Consultancy is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management Plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) 

for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. 

Problems 

Hand Problems 

Be Your Own Hand Detective 

Hand Problems 


Do Do you you feel feel symptoms of of pain, clicking, numbness or or tingling in in your your hands? 

Hand 

Be Your Own 

Detective 

Hand Do Have you you feel symptoms any of pain, clicking, numbness or or tingling in your hands? 

Have you noticed any signs of hand lumps, swellings, or muscle wasting? 

Do you feel symptoms of pain, clicking, Have numbness or tingling in your hands? 

If you answered you noticed yes to any any of the above, signs you of may hand be suffering lumps, from hand swellings, condition and or should muscle seek medical wasting? attention. 

If you answered yes to any of the above, you may be suffering from a hand condition and should seek medical attention. 



If you answered yes to any of the above, you may Common be suffering from Hand a hand Conditions condition and should seek medical attention. 

Common Hand Conditions 

Carpal Tunnel – Common symptoms include tingling and 

Common Hand Conditions Common Carpal Tunnel – Hand Common Conditions 

symptoms include tingling and 

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s of pain, clicking, or tingling in your hands? 

thumb muscle in the wasting. thumb, index and middle finger, with occasional 

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muscle numbness wasting. 

– Common in the symptoms thumb, include index and tingling middle and 

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Trigger Finger – Signs of finger locking and clicking are are seen seen - the - finger the finger may flick may up flick from up a bent from position. a bent 

Midland Hand Clinic lead by 

Trigger Dupuytren’s Finger – Contracture Signs of finger - A locking thickening and of clicking skin in the palm and 

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Mr G Shyamalan FRCS NHS 

consultant hand surgeon. 

y signs of hand lumps, swellings, or muscle wasting? 

fingers are experienced, along with a fixed bending of the fingers 


are Dupuytren’s seen - the finger Contracture may flick - A up thickening from a bent of skin position. 

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our funding 

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fingers are experienced, along with a fixed bending a general of dull the fingers 

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Carpal Tunnel – Common symptoms include tingling and 

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Trigger Finger – Signs of finger locking and clicking 

are seen - the finger may flick up from a bent position. 

Dupuytren’s Contracture - A thickening of skin in the palm and 

fingers are experienced, along with a fixed bending of the fingers 

meaning hands cannot be placed comfortably flat on a table. 

Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B74 3UP 

Arthritis of the Thumb – Signs include a general dull 

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am Dziubany 

25/02/2019 09:55

Mother-in-law loudly mansplains up from back down 

at ground level that it hurts to these levels because 

the silk is digging so viciously into my copious back 

fat. 

“It’s the BACK FAT, JACK!!!” she bellows. 

Which is a low blow, though I thank her for her 

encouragement. 

I soldier on, for I am not one for the complaining. 

The charming sadist, Kim, then instructs us to 

use the full might of our core muscles and of the 

silk’s strength to simultaneously flip and pirouette 

ourselves completely upright. FGFS! And to end the 

move with a flourish by nonchalantly pointing our 

toes to the floor and one hand to the heavens above. 

I cast my gaze across to see Carole, my mother-inlaw, 

doing exactly as she’s been bid. And she looks, 

for all the world, like an exquisitely poised prima 

ballerina. And it is breathtaking. 

While I look like a mugger. Mid forcible arrest. A 

tangle of violent limbs and volcanic expletives. And 

did I mention that this was painful? And humiliating? 

To heap on the misery I should point out that my 

mother-in-law is no longer in the first flush of youth. 

And yet she is Marvel Comics wondrous in her core 

strength and fitness. Whereas I am not. 

As this class goes on I’m becoming ever stronger in 

my belief that the human body and limbs are not 

designed to be woven and croché stitched around 

each other, but the incandescent joy on the faces of 

others in the class makes a constant mockery of me. 

During the class I see people (abnormally 

abdominally blessed people, I’ll concede) roll 

themselves UP a silk. Yes UP! Actually, let’s stop a 

second to appreciate just how extraordinarily difficult 

that must be. 

I’d like you to put down this mag, lie on the floor and 

then roll yourself from one side of the room to the 

other. 

What’s that? You’re on the bus, you say? Never mind, 

tell the other passengers to make some room for you 

- this is bloody important! 

Now roll yourself back. That’s it. Right, now how 

do you feel? Face flushed? Bit out of puff? B&H stub 

stuck to your blouse from the bus floor? Wanna do 

it again?! Alright, calm down, it’s not a creche we’re 

operating here! Was only joking. 

My point is that that little exertion should illustrate 

how demonically difficult and shattering it must be 

to roll oneself UP a silk rope. Yet roll UP the silk is 

exactly what some of my classmates are doing. 

So the experienced participants in this room are 

genuine champions in my eyes, because as fun and 

beautiful as they make it all look, it sure as hell is a 

murderous work out. 

We’re approaching the end of the class now and, as 

usual, I’ve stretched my shame to somewhere beyond 

lycra but Kim’s encouraging us to have a bash at 

pulling ourselves up using undiluted brute force to 

the top of the silk - maybe 20 feet up. Everest in this 

world, frankly. 

But I launch myself at this task with proper 

Herculean effort now, clawing and hacking and 

chewing at this slippery silky swine of a thing and 

inching my way to the top, the sweat rainfalling out 

of me, the veins popping out of me everywhere and 

it genuinely feel like my skull is trying to uncork itself 

from my very spine. 

I’m losing my grip fast here but with one final lunge 

I manage to scuff my index finger on the ceiling and 

my whole entire body flushes with triumph and relief 

and elation and, yes, dear reader, with redemption. 

I slip immediately back down to the floor and whirl 

around to accept the cheers and congratulations and 

adoration from the rest of the class, who have all 

been party to my suffering, my strife… 

Only to realise that not a single one of them has 

actually witnessed my climb. They are all transfixed 

by the gravity and decades defying exploits of my 

mother-in-law. Deary me. 

44

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T R AV E L 

Colourful Cuba 

RB COLLECTION’S JOINT MANAGING DIRECTOR NATHAN COLLINS SAYS NOW IS THE PERFECT 

TIME TO EXPLORE ONE OF THE CARIBBEAN’S MOST FASCINATING DESTINATIONS - CUBA 

COLOURFUL ARCHITECTURE AND CLASSIC 

CARS ARE HALLMARKS OF HAVANA 

We have seen a real increase in demand for Cuba 

recently. The Caribbean hotspot attracted a lot of 

attention a few years ago when President Obama 

famously visited, and the country opened up to US 

visitors. More recently Charles and Camilla shone a 

light on the island. In this issue, we offer our top tips 

to make the most out of your trip and explain why 

now is a great time to visit. 

Why should we go to Cuba now? 

The influx of tourists to Cuba from the U.S has 

not materialised, and Cuba still retains its unique 

position of being a communist country having to 

adapt and change to the world around it. The whole 

island is on the brink of change and now is an ideal 

time to explore during this fascinating period of its 

history. 

When is the best time of year to visit and why? 

The best time to visit Cuba is between December 

and May, when the weather is at its driest and 

mildest with temperatures between 24 and 27 

degrees celsius. 

How long to stay for a first time visit and why? 

Ideally 10 nights, spending four nights in Havana 

and then time at one of the country’s stunning 

beaches. These nights in Havana will give you the 

chance to explore this stunning city, giving you the 

opportunity to take a classic American car ride 

through its streets and an opportunity to sample its 

many restaurants and bars, and dance in the streets! 

What can’t you miss on your first-time visit? 

Quite simply, Havana, which will be celebrating the 

500-year anniversary of its founding in December 

2019. This city overwhelms your senses with 

stunning architecture, classic American cars and its 

zest for life! 

What are your three hidden gems? 

1. Xanadu Mansion in Varadero is a small six-room 

boutique hotel set on the beach and overlooking the 

Championship golf course. This Art Deco-styled 

property was the home of a wealthy American 

millionaire and you can sip a mojito on its terrace 

overlooking the ocean. 

46

ENJOY A RELAXING BREAK AT ONE OF 

CUBA’S STUNNING BEACH RESORTS 

Most romantic spot? 

At dusk the Malecon, 

Havana’s famous 

promenade, becomes the 

place for couples to meet. 

Local musicians play 

their guitars and friends 

meet to drink rum and 

to enjoy the cooling sea 

breeze. The Malecon 

becomes the focal point 

for the city after dark and 

is busy throughout the 

early evening and late 

into the night. 

2. Havana forest on the outskirts of the city is a green 

oasis with rivers and lush vegetation. 

3. Not really a hidden gem, but the streets of 

Trinidad allow you to be transported back in time. 

Beadmakers sell their wares by the pavement and 

cowboys can be seen riding horses through the 

streets. 

Favourite restaurant? 

La Guarida in old Havana is our most favourite 

private restaurant in the whole of Cuba. You 

walk up a high ornate staircase through a derelict 

looking building for two floors until you arrive at the 

restaurant of the top floor which has pristine white 

linen tablecloths and a range of stunning menu 

options. After the meal, head to the rooftop bar to 

watch the city skyline at night. 

Most Instagram-worthy spots? 

Revolution Square: this wide-open plaza is 

surrounded by government buildings and is the spot 

where Castro gave many of his 

speeches. 

Parque Central: this square is in 

the heart of the city and where you 

find several of the city’s famous 

hotels. Great views are afforded 

of the city below from some of 

the hotel’s rooftop restaurants and 

pool areas. 

La Floridita Bar: This is where, 

according to local legend, Ernest 

Hemingway is supposed to have 

helped in the creation of the 

Daiquiri. There is a lifesize bronze 

statue of the writer propping up 

the bar. 

ENJOY LIVELY MUSIC AND 

DANCING IN THE STREETS 

Best place for 

shopping local gifts? 

By the ferry terminal you 

will find a large covered art and crafts market. Here 

local artists sell their paintings and there is a large 

selection of gifts including leather bags, t-shirts and 

caps. 

Best place for a view? 

Head to Morro Castle on the other side of the bay 

from the city. Here from its ramparts you will have a 

beautiful view of the whole of Havana. 

Tell us something we don’t know! 

Cuba has 70,000 qualified doctors; the whole of 

Africa has only 50,000. 

What do locals do for fun at the weekend? 

At the weekend locals will head to the beaches east 

of the capital to escape the city. Here they will dance 

salsa on the beach and sip rum under parasols. These 

beaches are rarely used by tourists and are one of the 

city’s best kept secrets. 

47

TYPES OF CUBA HOLIDAYS 

Luxury beach stays 

The island is home to a wide variety of resort style 

hotels and recently has seen the opening of the 

luxurious Melia Internacional. More are planned as 

the island develops its luxury hotel offerings. 

HAVANA IS AWASH WITH 

COLOURFUL BUILDINGS 

Havana 

As we have reported above, the island is much more 

than a beach destination and Havana is the cultural 

heart of Cuba and one should always make time to 

visit. The sights, sounds and vibrant nightlife appeals 

to many and we often add on a few nights pre or post 

a beach stay. 

Cultural tours 

The island hosts many escorted private and group 

tours throughout the year, focusing on its culture and 

history as well as jungle life. 

Family trips 

Finding holidays to keep different aged members of 

the family occupied can often be tricky. Cuba is great 

for younger and older kids, or multi-generational 

trips with beach lovers relaxing while the more 

adventurous head of zip-wiring in the jungle. 

Salsa dancing tour 

Dancing is a big part of life on Cuba and we are 

offering our clients this very special seven-day salsa 

dancing themed trip… 

Combine learning hot Latin dance moves with 

spending time taking guided tours to places like the 

beautiful old part of Havana, including Casa del 

Habana and a rum museum. 

Discover the Cuban capital on a two-hour ride in a 

classic American car and go on a full day excursion 

to the nearby tropical beaches of Playas del Este. 

Visit the Academia del Balle Ritmo Cubano to learn 

the moves, and practice them later in the trip, at 

Patio de la Rumba. Master your salsa moves during 

a party visit to Casa de la Musica, and listen to 

the fascinating concert of a Cuban band, dinner 

included. The tour includes accommodation in 

Havana, excursions and entrance fees, salsa classes 

on four days, and an English-speaking tour guide. 

This special tour departs September 9, 2019. Prices 

start from £1,499 per person. 

Space is limited on this one-off tour so if it does 

sound of interest to you please do contact us as early 

as possible. 

CUBA IS A 

FASCINATING ISLAND 

48

THE STREETS OF HAVANA 

ARE PACKED WITH AMERICAN 

CLASSIC CARS 

J’AIME reader offer 

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IN HAVANA FOLLOWED BY FIVE NIGHTS 

5* ALL INCLUSIVE IN VARADERO WITH 

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TRANSFERS FROM £1,399 PER PERSON 

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ALL DETAILS ARE SUBJECT TO 

AVAILABILITY, TERMS AND CONDITIONS 

AND APPLIES TO NEW BOOKINGS ONLY. 

CUBA FACT BOX 

HOW TO GET THERE: Fly direct from London 

or Manchester 

TIME DIFFERENCE: 4hrs GMT 

CURRENCY: Cuba operates a dual currency 

system. Visitors usually use the Cuban 

Convertible Peso (CUC), whereas locals use 

the Cuban Peso (CUP). It is advisable to take 

Sterling or Euros with you to exchange, and 

to check with your bank before you travel to 

check if your card will work in their ATMs. 

WHAT TO EXPECT: The Cubans are very 

friendly, but expect to step back in time a little 

with services such as WiFi not widely used. 

Infrastructure is still developing but, of course, 

this adds to its charm. 

OUR TOP TIP: We strongly advise to choose 

your hotel carefully (which our award-winning 

team can assist with). There are a wide range 

of 5* hotels on the island for example, but the 

standards vary greatly even if they all have 

been awarded with a 5* rating. It goes without 

saying, that you really do get what you pay for, 

so if a price is too good to be true, do a little 

more digging. 

49

LO CA L A R E A 

What’s On Local 

YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST OF WHAT’S ON IN AND AROUND 

SUTTON COLDFIELD, LICHFIELD, WALSALL AND BEYOND 

WHAT: KEVIN QUANTUM - 

VANISHING POINT 

WHERE: LICHFIELD GARRICK 

WHEN: MAY 4 

Following sell out shows around the 

world, including Edinburgh Festival 

Fringe, Adelaide Fringe in Australia 

and Christchurch Festival in New 

Zealand, Kevin Quantum comes to 

Lichfield’s Garrick Theatre with a 

brand new show. Having spent half 

of his adult life studying physics and 

half studying magic, Magic Circle 

member Kevin explores the exotic 

spaces where science and magic meet. 

In Vanishing Point he will manipulate 

your perspective of the universe 

before converging at the point-ofmost-strange 

and putting his life on 

the line with the most dangerous, 

sci-fi inspired stunt he has ever 

attempted. Expect epic stunts, big 

laughs and impossible illusions from 

the magician-scientist hybrid trained 

by Penn and Teller. For more details 

call the Lichfield Garrick box office 

on 01543 412121 or visit 

www.lichfieldgarrick.com 

WHAT: LIVE AT THE TOWN HALL 

WHERE: SUTTON COLDFIELD 

TOWN HALL 


This month’s Live at the Town Hall brings 

a trio of stand-up stars to Sutton Coldfield 

for riotous evening of comedy chaos. 

The inimitable Lost Voice Guy will be 

taking to the stage with Hal Cruttenden 

and Angelos Epithemiou in a triple bill 

of funny. Lee Ridley, AKA Lost Voice 

Guy, may not be able to talk, but he 

definitely has something to say, and his 

comedy will leave you speechless. Since 

making his first stand up performance 

in February 2012, Ridley has gained 

quite the reputation, winning the BBC 

New COmedy Award in 2018, as well 

as last year’s Britain’s Got Talent. Hal 

Cruttenden is one of the top stand up 

comedians working in the UK today, 

as well as being a highly accomplished 

writer and actor, and is a well-known face 

on our television screens, while Angelos 

Epithemiou - the comic creation of Dan 

Renton Skinner - replaced Johnny Vegas 

in the revival of Shooting Stars. For more 

details and to book tickets visit www. 

townhallsuttoncoldfield.co.uk 

WHAT: LICHFIELD GREENHILL BOWER 

WHERE: BEACON PARK, LICHFIELD 


Dating back to 1145, the Bower 

is Lichfield’s oldest tradition and 

a community event which brings 

the whole city together. As well as 

the traditional procession through 

the streets of Lichfield, the Bower 

also has a selection of brilliantly 

entertaining activities to keep the 

whole family occupied. 

Lichfield’s Beacon Park comes alive 

with lots for everyone to enjoy. 

Wander through the park and 

indulge in the colourful array of 

fairground attractions, charity stalls, 

arts and crafts. Kids will love the 

play areas and the chance for an 

ice-cream treat. As well as all the 

entertainment, the park also offers 

a fantastic array of food to suit 

all tastes, plus market stalls full of 

enticing products from some of the 

best traders in the area. 

With acts including a motorcycle 

display team, falconry, slam wrestling 

and more, as well as the Paws in 

the Park dog show, the Bower will 

ensure your spring Bank Holiday is 

a memorable one. For more details 

visit www.lichfieldbower.co.uk 

50

Free Valuations 

at our Head Office in Fradley 

Every Tuesday 9.30am - 4pm 

We’re ready to help you find that hidden 

gem, be it jewellery, watches, silver, 

bronzes, glass, ceramics, antiques, 

a work of art, stamps, an old toy, 

heirlooms and collectables…... 

THE LICHFIELD AUCTION CENTRE 

WOOD END LANE, FRADLEY PARK, WS13 8NF 

01543 251081 

www.richardwinterton.co.uk 

office@richardwinterton.co.uk 

Medals & Militaria 

Technology 

Come and meet our team 

NEW MONDAY VALUATIONS 

Just for jewellery and 

watches at St Mary’s 

in the heart of Lichfield 

Wines & Spirits 

Coins & Banknotes 

More than just your local auction house 

The Winterton name has been synonymous 

with auctioneering throughout 

Staffordshire since 1864. 

INSURANCE VALUATIONS | PROBATE SERVICES 

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St Mary’s in the Market Square 

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J'Aime Ad 190x280_April 2019.indd 1 29/03/2019 16:31

LO CA L A R E A 

What’s on Second City 

A LOOK AT SOME OF THE BIGGEST AND BEST 

EVENTS TO COME TO BIRMINGHAM THIS MONTH 

WHAT: THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW 

WHERE: NEW ALEXANDRA THEATRE 

WHEN: MAY 13 TO 25 

Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ 

roll musical returns to the UK as part 

of a sell-out worldwide tour, having 

now been seen by over 30 million 

theatregoers. 

This classic musical extravaganza 

will star Birmingham's very own 

Alison Hammond as The Narrator, 

exclusively at The Alexandra. She 

joins Blue singer and Hollyoaks actor 

Duncan James as Frank, Strictly 

Come Dancing champion Joanne 

Clifton as Janet and A1’s Ben Adams 

as Brad. Kristian Lavercombe will 

also be reprising his role as Riff 

Raff, following more than 1,300 

performances in The Rocky Horror 

Show around the world. 

Directed by Christopher Luscombe 

and featuring timeless classics, 

including Sweet Transvestite, Damn 

it Janet, and of course, the pelvicthrusting 

Time Warp, The Rocky 

Horror Show is an adventure you’ll 

never forget. For more details and to 

book tickets visit www.atgtickets. 

com/birmingham 

WHAT: STRICTLY COME DANCING - THE 

PROFESSIONALS 

WHERE: BIRMINGHAM SYMPHONY HALL 

WHEN: MAY 16 AND 17 

Strictly Come Dancing – The Professionals 

is returning to Birmingham for two special 

shows this month. Direct from BBC One’s 

award-winning prime time TV show 

Strictly Come Dancing, this glamorous 

production will bring together some of 

our much-loved Strictly professional 

dancers as they take to the stage to dazzle 

with their dance prowess. Audiences 

will enjoy the incredible talent of these 

world-class dancers as they perform 

exquisitely choreographed Ballroom 

and Latin routines with all the sequins, 

sparkle and stunning production values 

we have come to know and love! The 

exciting line-up of magnificent dancers 

and Strictly TV favourites performing on 

the tour are 2018 finalists Dianne Buswell, 

Pasha Kovalev and Giovanni Pernice, 

alongside 2018 semi-finalist AJ Pritchard; 

2017 Strictly champion Katya Jones and 

finalist Gorka Marquez; 2016 Strictly 

finalist Oti Mabuse; Professional World 

Mambo Champion Karen Clifton; twotime 

Ballroom and Latin World Champion 

Nadiya Bychkova; and undefeated fourtime 

British National Champion Neil 

Jones. For more details and to book tickets 

for this Strictly limited engagement visit 

www.thsh.co.uk 

WHAT: HUGH JACKMAN - THE MAN. 

THE MUSIC. THE SHOW 

WHERE: RESORTS WORLD ARENA 

WHEN: MAY 27 TO 28 

Academy Award-nominated, Golden 

Globe and Tony Award-winning 

performer Hugh Jackman is bringing 

his first world tour to Birmingham this 

month. The Man. The Music. The 

Show. will see Jackman performing hit 

songs from, of course, The Greatest 

Showman, as well as Les Miserables 

and more from Broadway and film, all 

accompanied by a live orchestra. 

And there's more... he's bringing his 

Greatest Showman co-star Keala 

Settle - best known as the Bearded 

Lady - to the Birmingham shows! 

Hugh Jackman has made an 

impression on audiences of all ages 

with his multi-hyphenate career 

persona, as successful on stage in front 

of live crowds as he is on film. From 

his award-winning turn on Broadway 

as the 1970s singer/songwriter Peter 

Allen, to his metal claw-wielding 

Wolverine in the blockbuster X-Men 

franchise, Jackman has proven 

to be one of the most versatile 

actors of our time.For more details 

and to book tickets visit www. 

resortsworldarena.co.uk 

52

our clients’ trusted 

financial partner, 

counsel and expert. 

C r e a t i n g y o u r t o m o r r o w 

performance and well-being, giving them 

the financial confidence, capability and 

encouragement to live the life they want. 

Our business is about expertise and personal service; to be successful, we need great people. And that’s exactly 

what we have. Click each member of staff to view their profile. 

Henwood Court; a firm of 

Chartered Financial Planners 

based in Sutton Coldfield. 

What do 

we do? 

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Sutton how “Our Coldfield we client can help commitment B76 1TE you, please is get simple. in matters touch. We most are to you going info@henwoodcourt.co.uk 

life. to care about matters you and most be Conduct to you Authority in can life. registration trust number 417707. 

matters most to you in life. We then work with you to 

Senior Executives can trust 

more We then personally work with devoted you to to your financial Senior success Executives than anyone We in then world.” work with you • Help to with big decisions Senior Ex 

build a comprehensive plan to Working within large Henwood Court Financial Planning Limited 

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• Help with big involving decisions complex matters 

build a comprehensive plan to 

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Visit our showroom to be amazed by the choice - 


done 

financial plan. 

Employed or self-employed, reflects the requirements of your 

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from traditional to modern 

financial decisions, so our insight 

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• To live a better life 

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all together, or you’re and in the counsel working in their 

accountants and barristers transition stage between 

for exam 

best interests 


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financial decisions, so our insight 

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and coaching is designed to keep Either you’ve finished work 

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transition 

work and 

With such a wide range of fires, fireplaces and stoves 

there is sure to be a style to suit you & your home 

WE OF F ER 

A C OMP LE T E 

INST ALLA T ION 

SERV ICE 

Visit our showroom and be amazed by the choice! With such a wide range from traditional to modern, there’s sure to be a style to suit you! 

“Our client commitment is simple. We are going to care about you and be 

0121 313 1370 

info@henwoodcourt.co.uk 

more personally devoted to your financial success than anyone in the world.” 

“Our client commitment is simple. 

Nicholas Platt, Managing Director 

more personally devoted to your fin 

Nicholas Platt 

0121 313 1370 

info@henwoodcourt.co.uk 

5 Stafford Road, Lichfield WS13 7BZ - Tel: 01543 263 383 • www.thefireplacelichfield.co.uk 0121 • 313 Email: 1370 sales@thefireplacelichfield.co.uk 

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.30am - 4.30pm • Sat 10am - 4pm. Closed Sundays and bank holidays. FREE ON-SITE PARKING.

FA S H I O N 

Cover story 

DITCH YOUR BIG COAT FOR A LIGHTWEIGHT COVER UP, PERFECT FOR THOSE HAZY 

SPRING DAYS WHICH HINT AT THE PROMISE OF SUMMER, SAYS AMY NORBURY 

RETAILERS call it 'transitional'. We call it tricky - that 

period at the tail end of spring, when there might be 

sunny days aplenty, but the mercury hasn't really risen 

enough to risk stepping out without an adequate coverup. 

One thing you can ditch now though? Big winter 

warmers. Instead, you need a versatile jacket, or lighter 

spring-worthy coat or two that will see you through to 

summer proper. 

Considering that jackets are always going to be on 

high rotation in your wardrobe, it's worth investing in a 

couple of key pieces. 

The tailoring trend shows no sign of slowing down, but 

if a two-piece suit isn't your bag, try a longline jacket 

instead. 

Team a stylishly cut blazer with a print T-shirt and jeans 

for a casually cool outfit, or throw a longline tailored 

jacket over a midi dress and boots for something a 

bit more dressy. It’s the ultimate dress up-dress down 

wardrobe workhorse which will prove to be a worthy 

investment. 

Seeking a stripped-back take on sophistication? You'll 

need a trench coat. Whether rendered in spring's choice 

palette of classic fawn and biscuity beige, or souped 

up with some serious embellishment a la Burberry or 

Prada’s new season offerings, it's now a wardrobe musthave 

for all seasons - and a particularly useful transitional 

season staple. 

A particularly on-trend version is the trench coat/leather 

jacket hybrid - look out for beautifully soft and supple 

leather in a rich camel or tan hue, belted at the waist for 

that classic trench silhouette. 

For a more casual look, turn to a vintage style classic in 

the form of durable denim. No fashionista’s wardrobe 

is complete without a trusty denim jacket, so if your is 

lacking then it’s time to make amends. 

A cropped denim jacket over a floaty maxi dress is the 

perfect way to channel boho summer festival vibes, while 

a more utility number offers practicality and style in 

equal measure - with all those pockets, you don't even 

need a handbag. 

TRENCH, £99, 

MARKS AND SPENCER 

54

£60 

£3800 

£199 

LARA LINEN UTILITY JACKET, 

MONSOON 

BILLY CAMEL LEATHER 

TRENCH COAT, KHAITE 

AT HARVEY NICHOLS 

ALLIE TRENCH, 

HOBBS 

£85 

£45 

£295 

£65 

MARIPOSA OLIVE TRENCH, 

LINE AT HARVEY NICHOLS 

TRENCH COAT, 

RIVER ISLAND 

M&S COLLECTION RUCHED 

SLEEVE BLAZER, MARKS 

AND SPENCER 

BONDED BELTED 

JACKET, TOPSHOP 

STONE LINEN BLEND 

BLAZER, £38, NEXT 

STONE LINEN 

DOUBLE BREASTED 

BLAZER, £55, AND 

SHORTS, £32, MISS 

SELFRIDGE

FA S H I O N 

Earn your fashion stripes 

JILL HARTLEY, CO-FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR OF NERO E BIANCO EXCLUSIVE FASHION AND BRIDAL 

BOUTIQUE AT BARTON MARINA, TAKES A LOOK AT SOME STRIPY SUMMER WARDROBE STAPLES 

With Easter out of the way and the warm weather well and truly underway, it’s time to start thinking about those 

staple pieces for your summer wardrobe. As always at Nero e Bianco our mission is to help women look amazing 

and feel empowered. So, looking at trends that are crucial to that end, here’s a selection of styles that will put you 

in the lead for on trend style in the coming months. 

One of the biggest trends 

for 2019 is stripes, featuring 

here on this beautiful blouse 

in a playful gold colour it’s 

the perfect top to take you 

from casual daywear to 

eveningwear events. Paired 

here with trousers, this top 

also looks great with long 

skirts as its peplum style makes 

it extremely versatile. Peplum 

is very figure flattering and 

helps us to feel comfortable 

but also beautiful. 

The blazer of dreams; with vertical 

pinstripes elongating your torso 

this look gives you a slender figure. 

Seen here worn in a more daring 

manner, we’d pair it with a blouse or 

top to give a gorgeous work/formal 

look. Add a pop of personality with 

colourful shoes and accessories to 

minimise the white look or keep it 

sleek and sophisticated by keeping 

with the light-coloured trend. 

Alternatively, pair the jacket with 

these matching trousers for the 

ultimate female power-suit. 

56

Nero e Bianco 

Occasionwear & Ladieswear 

Barton Marina 

Burton upon Trent 

DE13 8AS 

01283 346 704 

www.neroebianco.uk

These trousers look 

phenomenal paired with the 

jacket we’ve just seen, but 

when the jacket comes off, 

the waistline of the trousers 

become an unmissable feature 

of their own, meaning you 

can wear a simple top and still 

create a killer look. They look 

great paired with a kitten heel 

but are sassy and cool matched 

with a white trainer for the 

ultimate casual look. 

Continuing with our stripy 

theme, this long blue shirt 

dress is our favourite look 

because you can dress it 

up or down no matter 

the event. Look and feel 

amazing on a family outing 

or for brunch with the 

ladies. Wear with stylish 

sandals, wedges or trainers. 

Dress up with heels for a 

modern look that’s great for 

garden parties or birthday 

barbecues. 

We’ve shown you some of our favourite looks for the summer, but a vital part of putting together on-trend 

looks is finding the perfect accessories to match. Here we show you a small selection of the dreamiest summer 

bags; from cute mini bags to bags with styles you’ve never seen before all intricately detailed and embellished 

in a range of colours and sizes. 

View a wider range of our summer collection at neroebianco.uk or visit us in 

store at Barton Marina, Barton under Needwood, Burton on Trent, DE13 8AS. 

58

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眀眀眀 ⸀ 愀氀氀攀渀戀爀漀眀渀樀攀眀攀氀氀攀爀礀 ⸀ 挀漀 ⸀ 甀欀 

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B E AU T Y 

The five masks your face needs 

FOR THE PERFECT TREAT, A FACE MASK CAN HELP WITH A WHOLE HOST OF SKIN WOES – FROM 

DEHYDRATION AND EXCESS OIL TO CLOGGED PORES, FINE LINES AND BREAKOUTS. LISA PIDDINGTON, 

FROM HARVEY NICHOLS BIRMINGHAM, REVEALS HER FAVOURITE BLEMISH-BUSTING GLOW-GETTERS THAT 

YOU NEED TO ADD TO YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE 

For a touch of luxury, Peter 

Thomas Roth’s 24kt Gold 

Mask, £64, is infused with pure 

gold to help improve firmness, 

brighten and calm skin. The 

addition of caffeine helps skin 

appear tighter while hyaluronic 

acid and glycerine deliver intense 

hydration for a silky smooth 

complexion. 

PIXI’s self-bubbling 

Glow-O2 Oxygen Mask, 

£26, helps revive dull, fatigued 

skin with immediate invigorating 

effects. Perfect before a big 

event or just after a long day, 

the oxygen complex along 

with vitamins, ginseng, caffeine 

and antioxidants wake up and 

replenish the complexion. 

Heaven Skincare’s signature 

Silver Bee Venom Mask, 

£82, contains revolutionary 

ABEETOXIN® – renowned as 

a natural alternative to Botox 

– that controls facial muscles to 

tighten, firm and lift, penetrating 

fine lines. Simply apply after your 

cleansing routine, leave on for ten 

minutes and wash off with warm 

water; or for a more intensive 

treatment, leave on overnight. 

An all-in-one beauty innovation, Starskin’s 7-Second 

Morning Mask, £27, combines your complete 

morning skincare routine into one easy-to-use mask 

pad. Each of the pads is soaked in a powerhouse serum 

infused with potent skin-brightening actives, fermented 

ingredients and probiotics to refresh, brighten and to 

deliver radiant, glowing skin. 

The Peptide4 

Thousand Flower 

Mask, £37, from 

Elemis restores 

essential moisture 

and antioxidants 

needed for healthylooking 

skin. It’s rich 

in minerals, vitamins 

and antioxidants to 

improve radiance 

and revitalise dull, 

lacklustre skin. It’s 

also formulated with 

a willow complex to 

gently exfoliate dead 

cells for smoother, 

more even tone and 

texture. 

SKINCARE PRODUCTS FEATURED ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE 

BEAUTY HALL AT HARVEY NICHOLS BIRMINGHAM, THE MAILBOX. 

60

The hair destination for 

fabulous, wearable looks 

THE SALON EXPERIENCE 

Set in a haven of luxury and relaxation 

we have the perfect environment to 

achieve the style you really want. 

Our award winning team of stylists will give you their 

undivided attention - our priority is to make every 

client look and feel fantastic. 

Call or visit to experience it for yourself, 

we would love to take care of you. 

T: 01543 481900 www.anthonyjohn-salons.co.uk 

Heart of the Country Shopping Village, Swinfen, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS14 9QR

H E A LT H 

Facing the challenge of hearing loss 

THIS MONTH SEES DEAF AWARENESS WEEK, FROM MAY 6 TO 12, AND IN SUPPORT OF 

THE INITIATIVE, STEVEN HALE HEARING ARE OFFERING FREE HEARING CONSULTATIONS 

With one in six people in the 

UK faced with challenges 

of deafness or hearing loss, 

Deaf Awareness Week aims to 

promote the positive aspects 

of deafness, promote social 

inclusion and raise awareness 

of the huge range of local 

organisations that support deaf 

people and their families and 

friends. 

To support Deaf Awareness 

Week Steven Hale Hearing, 

based in Sutton Coldfield, 

will be offering free mini 

consultations for anyone 

concerned about their hearing, 

hearing aids or just looking for 

some advice on communication tactics. 

Steven Hale says: “Hearing is relevant to everyone, 

everywhere. It has always been difficult for hearing 

impaired people to join into conversations, especially 

when faced with background noise. But while we 

are unable to completely block out the background 

noise there are now hearing instruments and devices 

to help you join in on conversation wherever you are 

and whoever you are talking to. 

“Add to this that you can now pair your Bluetoothenabled 

hearing instruments to your mobile phone so 

you never miss a call and can hear the person on the 

other end of the phone crystal clear, we now have 

the technology available to change lives for the better. 

“Numbers with hearing loss are at an all-time 

high and increasing as the population continues to 

age. Access to good quality audiology services is 

particular important. More than half of the over 60 

population has some level of hearing loss, most of 

which goes untreated. 

“But hearing loss should not stop, prevent or block 

you from participation.” 

The UK Council on Deafness, founded in 1993 and 

the national umbrella organisation for charities and 

INDEPENDENT AUDIOLOGIST STEVEN 

HALE IS OFFERING FREE CONSULTATIONS 

IN SUPPORT OF DEAF AWARENESS WEEK 

professional bodies working in the field of deafness, 

coordinates Deaf Awareness Week, which involves 

UK-wide series of national and local events to raise 

awareness of the needs of deaf or hard of hearing 

people in the UK. 

Together, the aim is to continue to raise awareness, 

improve access to education, health, social care and 

employment, and ensure people have the accessible 

information they need, as well as advocate and 

inform about deafness and hearing loss, and improve 

the quality of services for people who are deaf or 

hard of hearing. 

Craig Crowley, chair of the UK Council on 

Deafness, says: “This year’s Deaf Awareness Week 

is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of 

deafness and hearing loss in such an inspiring way 

for all.” 

Steven Hale adds: “If you feel that you or a loved 

one are suffering with any element of hearing loss, 

you just want a quick hearing check-up or you would 

like to see how hearing technology has evolved over 

the last few years then our free mini consultation will 

do just that for you.” 

To book your free mini consultation call 0121 308 

2550 and mention J’AIME /Deaf Awareness Week. 

62

H E A LT H 

The power of Pilates 

IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO REVITALISE YOUR FITNESS REGIME, TRY BOUTIQUE 

TAILORED PILATES EXERCISES AT SUTTON COLDFIELD STUDIO VIPILATES 

When it comes to fitness, we seem to all try the same 

things, but if the same routine is yielding the same 

results, it’s time to shake things up and try something 

tailored for you. 

Something tailored for you is exactly what Sarah 

Janes and her team at the VIPilates classical studio 

in Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield offer. In their sundrenched, 

recently refitted studio, Sarah and her 

team take the time to get to know each client, 

focusing on their mission to provide a very individual 

programme for everyone who enters. 

Instructors at VIPilates offer classical Pilates 

methods: unadulterated exercises the way Joseph 

Pilates intended them to be performed. You’ll find 

a range of spring-operated apparatus in the studio, 

offering you the resistance you need to push your 

body further. 

Sarah, an avid runner, discovered Pilates nearly 10 

years ago. From that moment, she was transfixed 

by the exercises, achieving results in the studio like 

nothing she had ever achieved in a traditional gym, 

or even through running. 

Those results and the way Sarah felt more energised 

and restored after each session drove her passion 

for Pilates. “I love the fact that Pilates works every 

muscle and every joint during the workout and 

restores the whole body,” Sarah explains. 

Classical Pilates is an inclusive exercise, suited 

for all fitness levels and all body types. VIPilates 

offers clients a tailored workout with the one-onone 

attention of a personal trainer in a beautiful 

boutique studio in Four Oaks. 

Pilates is suitable for everyone because the nature 

of the exercises work all of your joints and muscles 

together, promoting balance and control, increasing 

strength and stamina. With Pilates you will become 

more mobile, more flexible and gain strength. 

Sarah and her team offer private, one-on-one classes, 

duet sessions perfect for friends and partners and 

small group classes. No matter which type of class 

you attend, at your private induction session your 

instructor will get to know you, your goals and assess 

VIPILATES OFFERS CLASSICAL PILATES 

EXERCISES TAILORED FOR YOU 

your fitness level. This foundational information 

will help the instructors provide a tailored workout 

completely unique to your needs and bespoke to your 

body. 

“This tailored service ensures every client who walks 

through the doors of our studio receives a bespoke 

experience,” Sarah explains. Given the highly 

customisable nature of the work Sarah and her team 

do, Pilates is the ideal exercise for anyone. They 

welcome both men and women of all ages into the 

studio. 

Take your fitness to the next level - be challenged 

and get pushed to your limits at the VIPilates studio. 

Contact the studio on 0121 308 5930. VIPilates 

is located at Unit 2 Hill Village Road, Four Oaks, 

B75 5BH, just a five-minute walk from Mere Green 

centre and Butlers Lane train station. 

63

I N T H E N E W S 

Room to relax at Bedroom Gallery 

A SUTTON COLDFIELD BEDROOM SHOWROOM IS CELEBRATING 

A SUCCESSFUL FIRST YEAR IN BUSINESS THIS MONTH 

Bedroom Gallery, owned by Umar 

Hufeez, was set up in May 2018 

in Wylde Green, and brings some 

11 years of experience in the fitted 

furniture industry. 

Umar said: “I set up Bedroom 

Gallery with the aim of bringing 

the different elements that make the 

dream bedroom all under one roof. 

“Design is in my blood; from studying 

my BA hons in Design to learning the 

fitted furniture trade in kitchens in 

my early 20s, I have always been keen 

to design beautiful spaces.” 

And beautiful spaces are exactly what Bedroom 

Gallery pride themselves on offering, creating the 

perfect bedroom for each and every client. Being the 

most private and personal room in your home means 

each design created will capture your desires. The 

talented designers work to your brief and help to 

create an individual style and a look you absolutely 

love. 

Umar adds: “I started in bedrooms six years ago, 

setting up a similar business as part of a partnership 

which I then brought to Sutton Coldfield under 

a new name. Since then I have forged strong 

LUXURIOUS, BESPOKE 

FURNITURE DESIGNS 

ARE THE HALLMARK OF 

BEDROOM GALLERY'S 

SERVICE 

BEDROOM GALLERY IS 

CELEBRATING A YEAR IN 

SUTTON COLDFIELD 

relationships with the leading wardrobe and bed 

manufacturers in the UK, enabling Bedroom Gallery 

to offer a full range of fitted, sliding and walk in 

wardrobes along with the finest in luxury beds and 

lighting. 

“We are proud to be a premium retailer for 

Hepplewhite Fitted Furniture, covering the Midlands 

area. Hepplewhite - along with its parent company 

Hammonds Fitted Furniture - is one of the largest 

manufacturers of bedroom furniture in the UK. 

“I have taken great care in selecting the most 

dedicated individuals to set up my team here; we 

pride ourselves on excellent customer service and the 

best designs, all at a price to beat our 

like-for-like competitors. 

“One of the USPs of our business 

is the project management element, 

which is handled from beginning 

to end by myself, offering complete 

reassurance of the accountability at 

every stage.” 

Bedroom Gallery offers a free design 

service to give customers the best 

chance of considering all options for 

your room. For more details pop into 

the showroom at 414 Birmingham 

Road, Sutton Coldfield, B72 1YJ, 

call 0121 350 9555 or visit 

www.bedroomgallery.co.uk 

64

M OTO R S 

Life in the fast lane 

J’AIME’S MOTORING EXPERT AND RESIDENT RACING DRIVER MARTIN 

PLOWMAN TAKES A LOOK AT WHY THE ‘HYPERCAR’ LE MANS CLASS - 

NEW FOR 2020 - IS SOMETHING TO GET EXCITED ABOUT 

SWEDISH HYPERCAR 

KOENIGSEGG 

For the first time in nearly two decades, hypercars 

finally have a home where they can race instead of 

being restricted to driving laps around the streets of 

Knightsbridge by their billionaire owners. 

Yes that’s right; the FIA, in conjunction with the 

ACO - the organising body that runs the 24 Hours 

of Le Mans - have helped to develop a set of budgetfriendly 

rules that will allow manufacturers to race 

their respective hypercars as top-billing of the FIA 

World Endurance Championship for the start of the 

2020 season. 

Cars such as Mclaren’s P1, Aston Martin’s Valkyrie, 

Bugatti’s Veyron, Mercedes’ AMG-ONE, and 

Sweden’s premier hypercar builder Koenigsegg are 

just a small sample of some of the most exotic and 

breathtaking cars in the world right now that have all 

been touted as potential candidates for the new class. 

Now imagine some 24 of these dream cars racing at 

the most iconic endurance race in the world and you 

have yourself a mouth-watering proposition that will 

make even the most casual racing fan’s heart flutter. 

LMP1, the top class in the World Endurance 

Championship that comprises the 24 Hours of Le 

Mans, has been in steady decline over the last four 

years ever since big-dogs Audi and Peugeot pulled 

the plug on their racing programs leaving just 

Toyota to race among themselves in the top class. 

Budgets started to violently spiral out of control and 

eventually the futuristic-looking prototype cars were 

no longer sustainable as a class, so the FIA had to 

65

take drastic action to reduce costs to 

re-attract manufacturer involvement 

and to do that they had to make 

the rules more appealing to make 

cars relevant to their road-going 

counterparts. And so, the hypercar 

class was born. 

To get technical, the FIA will cap 

engine performance of the new 

class to just under 700bhp and the 

engine must weigh at least 180kg. 

Each car will only be allowed to have 

one additional hybrid power system 

powering the front wheels only and it 

can produce up to 200kW of power - 

approximately 268bhp - meaning that 

these beasts will have approximately 

1,000bhp on tap! These restrictions 

effectively put a huge financial cap on 

what manufacturers would need to 

spend to develop their cars. Without 

such restrictions, you risk going down the same exact 

path that led the LMP1 class to extinction. 

In terms of lap times around Le Mans, the FIA has 

predicted cars will be in the three minutes 22 second 

range in qualifying and three minute 27 second 

range in race pace, which puts it roughly on par with 

the current breed of Le Mans prototypes, albeit at a 

fraction of the running cost. 

Let’s face facts; as a racing fan, do you really care 

THE ASTONISHING ASTON 

MARTIN VALKYRIE 

about lap times, or do you care about the quality of 

the racing, the aesthetic of the cars, the sound, the 

smell? Everything about this new class ticks all of the 

boxes from a petrol-heads perspective. 

In an age where eco-friendly electric racing cars are 

starting to gain popularity - such as the Formula 

E championship - it warms my heart and satisfies 

my nostalgic leaning for the ‘glory years’ of racing 

to know that, in my lifetime, I will get to witness a 

whole new generation of iconic cars at Le Mans. 

THE MCLAREN P1 

66

J'AIME MAY 2019

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