J'AIME OCTOBER 2021

O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
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
Dancing
queen Dame
Arlene’s new
Birmingham
show
GET
KNITTED!
Cosy style for the
chillier months
CHEF TOM
SHEPHERD’S
long-awaited Lichfield launch
THE SUTTON COLDFIELD
MUM TURNED CHILDREN’S
BOOK AUTHOR

アパート 夀 䔀 䄀 刀 匀 伀 䘀
䈀 䔀 匀 倀 伀 䬀 䔀 䘀 䤀 一 䔀 䨀 䔀 圀 䔀 䰀 䰀 䔀 刀 夀 ꀀ
WE INVITE YOU TO OUR 35TH
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
伀 渀 攀 漀 昀 琀 栀 攀 氀 愀 爀 最 攀 猀 琀 挀 漀 氀 氀 攀 挀 琀 椀 漀 渀 猀 漀 昀
JOIN US ON THE 8TH, 9TH AND 10TH OF OCTOBER WHERE WE
挀 漀 渀 琀 攀 洀 瀀 漀 爀 愀 爀 礀 ǻ 渀 攀 樀 攀 眀 攀 氀 氀 攀 爀 礀 椀 渀 琀 栀 攀 唀 䬀
WILL BE SHOWCASING OUR SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY PENDANT
AND CELEBRATING WITHIN THE GALLERY OVER THE WEEKEND
匀 瀀 攀 挀 椀 愀 氀 椀 猀 琀 猀 椀 渀 搀 攀 猀 椀 最 渀 椀 渀 最 愀 渀 搀 洀 愀 欀 椀 渀 最 Ⰰ
爀 攀 洀 漀 搀 攀 氀 氀 椀 渀 最 愀 渀 搀 爀 攀 昀 甀 爀 戀 椀 猀 栀 椀 渀 最 昀 漀 爀 アパート 礀 攀 愀 爀 猀
䄀 䰀 䰀 䔀 一 䈀 刀 伀 圀 一 䨀 䔀 圀 䔀 䰀 䰀 䔀 刀 夀
䠀 攀 愀 爀 琀 漀 昀 吀 栀 攀 䌀 漀 甀 渀 琀 爀 礀 匀 栀 漀 瀀 瀀 椀 渀 最 嘀 椀 氀 氀 愀 最 攀
匀 眀 椀 渀 昀 攀 渀 Ⰰ 䰀 椀 挀 栀 ǻ 攀 氀 搀 Ⰰ
匀 琀 愀 昀 昀 漀 爀 搀 猀 栀 椀 爀 攀 圀 匀 㐀 㤀 儀 刀
㔀 㐀 アパート 㐀 㠀 㤀 㐀 㠀
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
昀 椀 琀
アパート
夀 䔀 䄀 刀 匀 伀 䘀
䈀 䔀 匀 倀 伀 䬀 䔀 䘀 䤀 一 䔀 䨀 䔀 圀 䔀 䰀 䰀 䔀 刀 夀 ꀀ
伀 渀 攀 漀 昀 琀 栀 攀 氀 愀 爀 最 攀 猀 琀 挀 漀 氀 氀 攀 挀 琀 椀 漀 渀 猀 漀 昀
挀 漀 渀 琀 攀 洀 瀀 漀 爀 愀 爀 礀 ǻ 渀 攀 樀 攀 眀 攀 氀 氀 攀 爀 礀 椀 渀 琀 栀 攀 唀 䬀
匀 瀀 攀 挀 椀 愀 氀 椀 猀 琀 猀 椀 渀 搀 攀 猀 椀 最 渀 椀 渀 最 愀 渀 搀 洀 愀 欀 椀 渀 最 Ⰰ
爀 攀 洀 漀 搀 攀 氀 氀 椀 渀 最 愀 渀 搀 爀 攀 昀 甀 爀 戀 椀 猀 栀 椀 渀 最 昀 漀 爀 アパート 礀 攀 愀 爀 猀
ALLEN 䄀 䰀 䰀 䔀 一 BROWN 䈀 刀 伀 圀 一 䨀 JEWELLERY
䔀 圀 䔀 䰀 䰀 䔀 刀 夀
䠀 Heart 攀 愀 爀 琀 漀 of 昀 吀 The 栀 攀 䌀 Country 漀 甀 渀 琀 爀 礀 Shopping 匀 栀 漀 瀀 瀀 椀 渀 最 Village 嘀 椀 氀 氀 愀 最 攀
匀 Swinfen, 眀 椀 渀 昀 攀 渀 Ⰰ Lichfield,
䰀 椀 挀 栀 ǻ 攀 氀 搀 Ⰰ
匀 Staffordshire 琀 愀 昀 昀 漀 爀 搀 猀 栀 椀 爀 攀 WS14 圀 匀 㐀 9QR 㤀 儀 刀
01543 㔀 㐀 アパート 481948 㐀 㠀 㤀 㐀 㠀
眀 www.allenbrownjewellery.co.uk
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
昀 椀 琀

Welcome to J’AIME
Here at J’AIME, nothing excites us more than the
launch of a new restaurant, and this month sees one
of the most hotly anticipated new openings we can
remember. Acclaimed chef and Lichfield lad Tom
Shepherd, formerly head chef of Michelin-starred
Adams Restaurant in Birmingham, returns to his
home city with his first solo venture, Upstairs By Tom
Shepherd. With more than 1,000 bookings taken
already, and Friday and Saturday nights fully filled
for the rest of the year, it’s set to be the hottest ticket
in town, and we caught up with Tom to find out how
things were going ahead of the grand opening.
Elsewhere, we chat to former Strictly Come Dancing
judge Dame Arlene Phillips, who is the choreography
brains behind What’s New Pussycat?, the brand new
musical based on the music of Sir Tom Jones, which
premieres at the Birmingham REP this month. We
also speak to comedian Jasper Carrott and musician
Bev Bevan about their show, Stand Up and Rock,
which comes to the Lichfield Garrick next year.
As brand new foodie weekender Love Cheese Live
comes to the Staffordshire County Showground this
month, we get the lowdown from Staffordshire chef
Thom Bateman, who will be gracing the main stage
alongside Michel Roux Jr, Marco Pierre White and
more.
With our usual mix of autumnal interiors, fashion and
beauty, the best in Halloween family entertainment,
top class travel and more, we hope there’s plenty here
to keep you entertained. So put your feet up, brew
yourself a pumpkin spiced latte and enjoy!
If you like what you read in this issue, then why not
help us to spread the word? As well as being delivered
directly to homes in selected postcodes across the
area, you can pick J’AIME up free of charge in major
supermarkets around the Midlands, as well as read
the whole thing - and plenty more! - online at
www.jaimemagazine.com
EDITOR: AMY NORBURY
EDITOR@JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM
ADVERTISING: JAN ASHLEY
ADVERTISING@JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM
07388 335 931
DESIGN: DESIGN@JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM
CONTRIBUTORS: JAZZ SHERGILL,
KATY EDGINGTON, TONY COLLINS,
OLIVER BROAD, ROB PALMER, EVA DAVE,
DEBORAH MITCHELL
J’AIME IS PUBLISHED BY ASHBURY
PUBLICATIONS LIMITED.
Check us out online at:
WWW.JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM
Find us on
/JAIMEMAGAZINE
@JAIMEMAGAZINE
@JAIMEMAGAZINE
SPONSORED BY
3

CO N T E N T S
InsideJ’aime this month...
6 Dame Arlene Phillips - The former Strictly
favourite on her new Birmingham show
10 Chef Tom Shepherd - The prodigal son returns
to Lichfield with his new restaurant
14 Jasper Carrott and Bev Bevan - Back on the
road and heading to Lichfield
18 Property - Property of the month
20 Interiors - Tranquil bathroom updates
24 Interiors - Cosy touches for autumn
30 Author Catherine Hair - The Sutton Coldfield
mum inspired to write her first children’s book
34 Food and drink - Reviewing The Meynell
Ingram Arms
36 Food and drink - Staffordshire chef Thom
Bateman at Love Cheese Live
40 Food and drink - National award for
Staffordshire pub
42 Food and drink - Chef Rob Palmer’s Lichfield
residency
44 Travel - The world’s most splendid cruise ship
50 In the news - A remembrance service for Baby
Loss Awareness Month
51 What’s On - Halloween events for all the
family
52 What’s On - Events around the Midlands this
month
56 Fashion - Get knitted for autumn
58 Fashion - Eyewear styling with Eva Dave
60 Beauty - Autumn skincare updates from
Deborah Mitchell
62 Beauty - Walsall makeup artist Ravita Pannu
64 In the news - A first wedding for stunning new
venue
65 In the news - Make over your smile
66 In the news - Kitchen updates from a
Staffordshire family business
SPONSORED BY
4

Reece Associates
refresh. revitalise. recreate
Book Your Free Consultation
With Reece Associates Today
Call 0121 355 5180
Reece Associates
refresh. revitalise. recreate
Ever Wanted to Improve
Your Smile?
Expert Cosmetic Dentistry From Real Dentists
Smile Make-Overs
Free Consultations Available
Dental iTero Scanning (no messy impressions)
Implants
Veneers
Composite Bonding
Teeth Whitening
Invisalign
22a Chester Road, New Oscott, Sutton Coldfield B73 5DA
Tel: 0121 355 5180
Email: hello@reeceassociates.co.uk

F E AT U R E
This is What’s New, Pussycat
DAME ARLENE PHILLIPS DBE HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED AS CHOREOGRAPHER OF BRAND NEW
MUSICAL WHAT’S NEW PUSSYCAT?, SHOWCASING AT BIRMINGHAM’S VERY OWN THE REP.
JAZZ SHERGILL SPOKE TO HER TO FIND OUT MORE
DAME ARLENE PHILLIPS
Dame Arlene Phillips is simply in love with all things
Sixties. The swinging era, which brought iconic
fashion, music and more, holds a special place in the
legendary choreographer and former Strictly Come
Dancing judge’s heart.
So she was delighted when she was approached to
get involved with a brand new stage production
which celebrates the best of the era.
The highly anticipated What’s New Pussycat?, which
is showcasing at The REP theatre in Birmingham
from October 8 to November 14, is a joyous,
romantic and entertaining production based on
Henry Fielding’s classic comic novel The History
of Tom Jones, A Foundling. Written by the Tony
Award-winning Joe DiPetro, the show has the full
backing of Sir Tom himself, who has been consulting
with the producers throughout the development, and
will feature his biggest hits.
“The opportunity was presented to me and I’m in
love with the Sixties where this production is set and
with obviously music courtesy of Tom Jones, I love
the songs and the music and based on the original
novel it sounded suitably wacky and bonkers and
I went, yeah, I want to do that. So here I am!” she
said.
What’s New Pussycat? will be directed by Luke
Sheppard, whose most recent production, the
acclaimed & Juliet, has taken the West End by storm,
winning three Olivier Awards and six Whatsonstage
Awards.
The audience can expect to experience the swinging
Sixties of London as Tom Jones arrives in the capital
with a broken heart, he has plans to pursue big
dreams. He discovers an exciting world of dancing
and amazing music. As romance and adventure
await, will Tom ever be reunited with his one true
love?
Arlene has worked as a director and/or
choreographer on musicals including Grease, We
Will Rock You, Starlight Express, The Wizard of Oz,
The Sound of Music, Saturday Night Fever, and the
plays Allelujah and A Midsummer Night’s Dream at
6 www.jaimemagazine.com

DAME ARLENE PHILLIPS DURING REHEARSALS.
PHOTO BY PAMELA RAITH
the Bridge Theatre.
What’s New Pussycat? allowed Arlene to relive
her life in the Sixties, which, she explains, was a
significant time in her life.
“The Sixties for me, I was in my late teens, early
twenties, coming to London, you know, I really did
feel like the streets were paved in gold, it was so alive
and buzzing,” she said.
“It’s like the world was changing. I loved the Sixties
fashion, the style, the dances, there were suddenly
dance programmes on television and for me this was
everything I dreamed of happening all around me so
I have a big love for the Sixties.”
Sir Tom Jones has been a part of the development
stages of What’s New Pussycat?, and his hits will
be used in the musical. To name just a few, you can
expect to hear Green, Green Grass of Home, It’s
Not Unusual, Leave Your Hat On, Delilah, Mama
Told Me Not To Come, Sex Bomb and, of course,
What’s New Pussycat?
Arlene’s craft goes beyond just being a
choreographer; she studies the entire production of
the music she works with to bring it to
life.
“I find Tom Jones’ music inspiring
because a lot of the rhythms are,
sambas, cha-chas, there is a lot of
dance rhythm in them, it’s great music
to dance to and also some really
fascinating lyrics,” she explains.
“So of course, when you’re working
on a musical you really listen to the
lyrics, you are delving into them - what
did they say? How can I make this
work on stage and express all of it?
I’m working with an amazing director,
Luke Shepherd, and I have loved bringing
the show to life with him. The show is
funny and the writer Joe DiPietro’s sense of
humour is so appealing to me. I love when I
get a chance to work in a show that has all
the comedy I love, and this show has all of
that.”
The audience can expect to be transported
into a different era, this feel-good musical
is something we could all use and be a part
of, especially after many of us have been
turning to TV series’ over lockdown – let’s
go out and feel the joy on stage!
“I think over these last few years, we’ve seen
a lot of great television shows that are set in
different eras, from The Queen’s Gambit to
The Marvelous Mrs Maisel and you start to
fall in love with shows set in the time,” says Arlene.
“I think this show will really bring the Sixties to life,
and it’s going to look and feel like, oh my gosh, that’s
an era I want to live in or be a part of - everything
from the set to the costumes. I think the audience
will find it funny, they’ll love the music and the cast –
it’s a great musical, and it will send you out singing.
And I think we all need the joy of coming out of
something and just singing it.”
The theatre industry took a big hit because of
the COVID-19 pandemic, with many people out
of work and productions being forced to stop.
Arlene said it felt like being in “limbo” and that the
production team were delighted once the green light
was given to continue working on the musical.
“Oh, it’s difficult. We did our first workshop and at
the start of 2020, and then, everything stopped. We
were just about to go into production and everything
stopped and we had no idea that it was going to
happen. It was hard because we were preparing
everything, we worked on the workshop, with the
DOMINIC ANDERSEN IN REHEARSALS
FOR HIS ROLE AS SIR TOM JONES IN
WHAT’S NEW PUSSYCAT. PHOTO BY
PAMELA RAITH
www.jaimemagazine.com
7

idea this was all going to happen and of course, then
it didn’t.
“It was quite devastating because the life I think you
live working in theatre is full on. And then suddenly
there’s a silence surrounding you and you can’t see
anybody or meet with people or see family talk to
anyone. And you’re left in this sort of limbo of life
that seems to have stopped all the buzz that is around
you. It just seemed to have turned into silence, it was
quite hard to deal with it and even to process it. So,
we were delighted when we discovered in 2021, this
was going to come back to life and we are in real
rehearsals.”
As we move out of the pandemic and return back to
normality, the feeling of theatre is back and there is
so much to look forward to. With so many emotions
and feelings of positivity, what were Arlene’s top
three highlights of working on What’s New Pussycat?
“I think one is the music! Oh my goodness! And with
our brilliant musical arranger, Matt Brind, who has
been a joy to work with and bringing the music light
to life and close to your heart – that’s one thing,”
Arlene says.
“The joy of working with an extraordinary director,
Luke Sheppard, he focuses and brings it to breathing
life off the pages from our writer. And number three
is to be back working, choreographing and feeling
like life slowly is trickling along and a life that you
love has returned again.”
Birmingham Repertory Theatre, in association with
REHEARSALS ARE UNDERWAY FOR THE SHOW,
WHICH PREMIERES AT THE REP THIS MONTH
Flody Suarez and Kilimanjaro Theatricals will be
presenting What’s New Pussycat and at an even
more incredible time as The REP’s iconic building
celebrates turning 50 years old.
“I’m a big fan of Birmingham and how wonderful
it is that we are opening in Birmingham, because I
know our audiences are going to love it and they’re
going to show they love it,” says Arlene.
“The thing about it is that every theatre where you
open a new musical is very special. I just have to say
a huge thank you to the theatre and everybody in it
that has brought us there to this opening because we
are going to celebrate it like you can’t believe!”
Tickets are now on sale for What’s New Pussycat?
at The REP Theatre, Birmingham. For more
information about ticket prices and booking, visit
www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
Competition!
J’AIME has teamed up with The REP Theatre, Birmingham, to offer readers the
chance to win one of two pairs of tickets for the performance of the new musical
What’s New Pussycat? at 7pm on October 14, 2021.
The winners will be part of the theatre’s special evening marking the building’s 50th
birthday - a milestone in the theatre’s history.
For your chance to win, simply answer the following question:
What’s New Pussycat? is based on the music of which legendary musician?
Send your answer, along with your name and contact details, to
competitions@jaimemagazine.com with the subject What’s New Pussycat?
Competition by 5pm on Sunday, October 10.
Terms and conditions apply. No cash or alternative prize is available. Visit
www.jaimemagazine.com for further details.
8
www.jaimemagazine.com

F E AT U R E
Head Upstairs for
fine dining feasts
AS FORMER HEAD CHEF OF MICHELIN-STARRED ADAM’S RESTAURANT IN BIRMINGHAM, TOM SHEPHERD HAS
AN IMPECCABLE FINE DINING PEDIGREE, WHICH HE IS BRINGING BACK TO HIS HOME CITY OF LICHFIELD WITH
THE OPENING OF HIS FIRST SOLO RESTAURANT THIS MONTH. AMY NORBURY DISCOVERS MORE
CHEF TOM SHEPHERD IS OPENING HIS FIRST
RESTAURANT - ABOVE HIS DAD’S SHOP
Tom Shepherd was supposed to be the fourth
generation to join the family business. With three
generations of jewellers before him, it would have
been no surprise if he had followed in their footsteps.
But Tom had other ideas. It was clear early on that
his ambitions lay elsewhere, and after a stellar career
in some of the country’s top kitchens, culminating in
a position as head chef at Michelin-starred Adam’s
Restaurant in Birmingham there’s no question that
forging his own path was the right choice.
And now, 33-year-old Tom is undergoing a
homecoming of sorts, both back to his home city of
Lichfield, and to take his place - of a fashion - within
the family business.
His ambitious new restaurant, Upstairs by Tom
Shepherd, opens this month, in what is probably the
most hotly anticipated foodie openings Lichfield has
ever seen. And named Upstairs, because it is based
on the top floor of his father’s jewellery shop.
Tom’s father, Paul, runs City Jewellers, which now
occupies the former premises of long-running
Lichfield business Salloways in a prime city centre
spot on Bore Street.
“My dad purchased the property from Nigel
Salloway in March 2019, and in the beginning there
was no thought in any of our minds that we would
turn the upstairs into a restaurant,” says Tom.
After the shop itself had been refurbished, Tom
and Paul were toying with ideas for the upstairs
space, looking at potentially converting the former
workshops, storage and offices into office space to
rent. But as soon as Tom set foot inside the cavernous
space, he had other ideas.
After consulting with several designers about the
possibility, Tom pitched the idea of using the space
to open his first solo restaurant.
“It all just felt right,” says Tom. “I’d been at Adam’s
from mid-2017 until the last service of 2019 and
10 www.jaimemagazine.com

learned what I wanted to learn; we were number one
in the country on TripAdvisor and number seven in
the world. I’d gone to a well-established restaurant
and I wanted to evolve it, I didn’t want to reinvent
it because it didn’t need reinventing. And for the
customers to understand that and to think so highly
of it, was the finishing line for me.
“It was the right time to do my own thing and open
my own place. I spoke to several designers, who came
to see the space and saw my vision, so we sought
investment for the project.”
As 2020 rolled around, Tom had secured investment
and it was full steam ahead. Until the coronavirus
pandemic hit.
“At that point I was helping Aktar Islam out at
Pulperia, which he had just opened,” says Tom.
“We’re good friends, and I thought it would give me
a good insight as to what I was hopefully going to be
doing opening my own place.
“Then I got a call from my investor saying his
business had fallen off a cliff, so to speak, with
cancellations all over the world, and had I heard
about the coronavirus?”
Tom admits that, initially, the hospitality industry
in the UK was quite dismissive of the virus and
its impact. Fast forward some 18 months, and
hospitality has been one of the worst affected trades.
“On the Monday of the week before lockdown,
when Boris came out and said that no-one should go
out for restaurant reservations, it was the nail in the
coffin for us both at Pulperia and with the restaurant,
and a week later, the hospitality industry closed
completely,” says Tom.
“It sounds strange, but those first three months
of 2020 were so fast-paced and I was just going
along with a lot of things and didn’t have time to
really decide if these were the best decisions, I was
just trying to focus on my dream of opening the
restaurant.
“So the pandemic, and the ‘stop’ button that was
created, actually came at an incredible time.”
With renovation work at the restaurant barely
started, Tom decided to shelve the project for the
time being, and take a step back to reassess.
In No Man’s Land job-wise - Tom hadn’t been
employed at Pulperia, nor had his own business been
set up yet - an unexpected opportunity arose, when
he was approached by Lichfield’s own Sauce Supper
Club about setting up a fine dining takeaway service.
“I had a pop-up event set up with Beth and Jon
Toovey from Sauce Supper Club at St Johns House
for the end of March, which had to be postponed,”
says Tom.
“About two weeks later, Beth called and said that it
looked like the virus wasn’t going anywhere anytime
soon, but takeaways were still an option so what did I
think about going down that route?”
The result was Tom and Sauce Supper Club’s
Dine at Home collaborations, which saw customers
presented with a luxurious three-course dinner,
expertly prepared by Tom and his team, before being
boxed up and delivered to their homes for them to
finish off and enjoy.
“It was a product where we put 99 per cent of the
work in, and then it’s easy for people to finish off
at home; all the work, all the flavour goes in before
the end process and then it’s just a case of people
popping it in the oven,” says Tom.
THE STUNNING RESTAURANT
OPENS THIS MONTH
www.jaimemagazine.com
11

Beth managed to source kitchen space at Manor
Farm, in Hints, to house the operation, and the
project got off to a flying start, selling out 40 boxes in
the first week.
“Me and Mikey, my sous chef, prepped early in the
week and had a couple of late nights but it was going
fine, then come Friday when the boxes were going
out, we’d underestimated just how much would need
doing so were there until around half three in the
morning,” says Tom.
“It wasn’t long before we were selling out of 100
boxes week in, week out, which was insane because
there were only four or five of us working on it. Then
we started couriering the boxes nationwide, which
went really well, and fast-forward to this year and it
wasn’t until the whole hospitality industry reopened
that we started to see a little bit of a lull, although we
still had a really good, regular customer base.
“My ethos working in Michelin-starred restaurants
has always been to put as much flavour as possible
into our products, and that didn’t change with the
boxes.
“We nailed it; Beth from the ideas and logistics
perspective and me from the food, and straight away
the customers got into it and straight away it was
awesome.”
As the demand grew, Beth and Tom had to move
the Dine at Home operation to bigger premises,
with Beth taking over the former Mabel’s Tearoom
at Curborough to create what is now brunch cafe
Thyme Kitchen. And with Beth having a restaurant
to run, as well as a home to restart Sauce Supper
Club events, and Tom heart still set on running his
own place, it was a natural end for the dining box
operation.
The success of Dine at Home has, however, given
Tom a whole new customer base who are eagerly
anticipating more from the chef. It also allowed him
to make connections in the community which would
eventually help with pulling Upstairs together.
“I was cooking at people’s houses when we were
able to do that, and I was out there delivering boxes
too; I very much believe in leading from the front,”
says Tom. “During that time I met all these people;
a structural engineer, an electrician, a whole new
group of people in trades who then offered to come
down to the restaurant and help out and quote for
the work.”
With work at Upstairs progressing at a rapid pace
ahead of the opening this month, the booking system
has been inundated with enquiries; some 1,000
bookings have already been made, with Friday and
Saturday nights fully booked for the rest of the year.
Diners will be able to look forward to Tom’s flavour
led, produce-driven menus inspired by the seasons
and surroundings. The 24-cover dining room will
serve a five and seven-course tasting menu, a threecourse
lunch menu and a traditional three-course
Sunday lunch. The Kitchen Table, located directly in
the kitchen, is available for up to four guests who will
get to enjoy a unique hands on experience watching
the brigade create, cook and serve their dishes.
“We want to create a restaurant which, in my
opinion, is yet to be seen in Lichfield.,” says Tom.
“We really want to bring a new experience, and we
hope that when people walk through the door they
notice that difference in delivery. They can sit down,
have some incredible food, because how we source
and how we cook is what I’ve learned throughout
my whole career and that’s not going to change, it’s
going to be elevated even here.
“We want to produce a restaurant that will fulfill, and
hopefully exceed, people’s expectations.
“I’ve worked in some incredible restaurants and with
some incredible people, and it’s time now to go it
alone. And the fact that it’s here in Lichfield, above
my dad’s shop, couldn’t be more perfect.”
Upstairs by Tom Shepherd opens at 25 Bore
Street, Lichfield, on October 8. For more
details visit www.upstairs.restaurant or
email reservations@upstairs.restaurant for
booking enquiries.
12 www.jaimemagazine.com

F E AT U R E
24 Carrott gold entertainment
OLD FRIENDS JASPER CARROTT AND BEV BEVAN ARE BACK TOGETHER AGAIN AND ON THE
ROAD, WITH TICKETS FOR THEIR 2022 SHOWS AT THE LICHFIELD GARRICK NOW ON SALE.
TONY COLLINS CAUGHT UP WITH THE DUO AHEAD OF THEIR TOUR
JASPER CARROTT HAS
PLAYED TO HUGE
AUDIENCES OVER THE
YEARS
They started out as 11-year-old boys sitting next to
each other in school who went on to perform in soldout
arenas in front of thousands of fans.
And now, nearly seven decades on, those wide-eyed
youngsters have overcome 18 months of lockdown to
reunite once again.
Schoolboys Robert Davis and Beverley Bevan, who
occupied adjoining desks at Moseley Grammar for
five years, went on to achieve enormous success as
BAFTA Award-winning comedian Jasper Carrott
and the acclaimed drummer of The Move, Electric
Light Orchestra and Black Sabbath.
They are now touring the UK with Stand Up and
Rock, which features the timeless humour of Jasper
and the music of The Bev Bevan Band with special
guest, former Ocean Colour Scene guitarist Andy
Bennett.
Jasper, who met up with Bev at The Belfry Hotel and
Resort near Sutton Coldfield, said of Stand Up and
Rock: “It’s not a unique show but nobody else does
it, nobody else mixes comedy and rock and roll as a
featured evening.”
The origins of the show go back to the early 90s and
a previous band that featured Jasper, Bev and Black
Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi.
Jasper explains, “We had a group called Belch that
was made up of Black Sabbath, ELO and Carrott,
hence Belch, and we just did some silly things. From
that came the roots of Stand Up and Rock.”
But Jasper and Bev, who was inducted into the Rock
and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017, go back a whole lot
further.
Jasper recalls, “The first person I sat next to at
grammar school when I was 11 years old was him,”
14 www.jaimemagazine.com

pointing at Bev. Bev chips in, “Our
names were alphabetical. I was Bevan.”
Jasper continues: “And I was Davis, so it
just happened we were on the front row
together. That was 66 years ago and we
went through all five years.”
The schoolmates went to work at the
same Birmingham department store,
The Beehive, as trainee buyers.
“That’s what they said!” says Bev. “We
swept the floor and made the tea. I
ended up in carpets but only stayed one
year. I only got the job because it paid
for the HP payments on my drums.”
Jasper, who stayed at The Beehive for
three years, did not share Bev’s showbiz
ambitions at that time.
“I was going to be an entrepreneur. I started a folk
club (The Boggery) in 1969 and was always going to
be a promoter and run clubs and manage people.
“I was just compering at the club and singing silly
funny songs and one thing led to another and people
started asking me to do their clubs.
“I was getting £12 a gig and petrol. The equivalent
today would probably be £500 or £600. So it was
very lucrative to the point where I realised my future
JASPER CARROTT IS RENOWNED
FOR HIS TIMELESS HUMOUR
JASPER AND BEV HAVE BEEN FRIENDS
SINCE THEY WERE 11 YEARS OLD
lay in entertaining and not in promoting.”
Bev’s music career was already taking off, having left
Denny Laine and the Diplomats to form The Move
in 1966 and then on to ELO with Jeff Lynne.
Despite the pals not seeing much of each other with
ELO spending a lot of the 70s in America, they
found time to be best man at each other’s wedding -
Bev in 1970 and Jasper in 1972.
The pandemic has prevented them working together
since a Stand Up and Rock show in November 2019,
so how have they coped during lockdown?
“Speaking for myself, just taking it day by day,” says
Jasper. “I haven’t seen my son and daughter (actress
Lucy Davis), who live in LA, since November 2019
although I’ve done Zoom with them.”
The comedian recalls a strange feeling from the same
time.
“It’s funny, Bev and I were in the pub and I had this
overwhelming feeling of foreboding for next year.
It was very troublesome because I couldn’t explain
it. It was a very disturbing feeling, and when it (the
pandemic) all kicked off I started to think that must
be it. That’s the only explanation I’ve ever had.”
Bev adds: “I remember it well, I have always kept
diaries and I wrote it in the diary ‘Jasper’s in a weird
mood, he’s had this terrible foreboding about next
year’. It was quite spooky.”
Bev, who reveals he caught COVID this summer
but only suffered mild symptoms, spent his time in
lockdown writing songs.
“For me it was quite good, to begin with anyway. I
wrote so many songs during lockdown and managed
to record a whole album (Riding Rainbows, with
separate band, Quill), so I’ve been really busy.”
Jasper admits to a “mixed feeling” about performing
again.
www.jaimemagazine.com
15

JASPER CARROTT AND BEV
BEVAN ARE SET TO REUNITE
FOR THEIR STAND UP AND
ROCK TOUR
“It’s exciting, but the trepidation, not having worked
for that long. It will take me a while to get up to
speed. While you know the routines and stuff, it’s all
the little bits that enhance it like little remarks that
come into your head and pop out.
“I’m very fortunate I’ve had a successful career so the
money isn’t part and parcel of it for me personally. I
do it purely for the enjoyment.
“It means a lot to the band, I appreciate that, which
is one of the reasons I continue to do it, but it is very
enjoyable. Adrenaline is one helluva drug and it’s
very difficult to come off it.”
Bev agrees: “Rehearsals are just a means to an end
but as soon as you get on a stage and get that crowd
reaction it’s fantastic, it’s a real buzz. There’s nothing
to replace it.”
Jasper’s success began with chart-topping comedy
record, Funky Moped, in 1975, and led to top TV
shows including BAFTA Award-winning Carrott’s
Lib and BBC series The Detectives with Robert
Powell.
His 24 Carrott Gold live show in 2004 broke box
office records, with 72,000 people at the Birmingham
National Indoor Arena.
“I have to keep pinching myself really. I haven’t
done TV for about ten years and it’s
great because I don’t get the hassle
of being recognised. I’ve got the best
of both worlds in the fact I can still
draw a crowd and yet I can be fairly
anonymous.
“One of my greatest pleasures was
when my grandchildren came to see me
and were really knocked out. For weeks
they were doing the routines.”
Bev also feels fortunate in his career. “I
was always going to be a drummer and
I think I would have made a living as a
drummer, but luckily I did get into The
Move, ELO and Black Sabbath, and to
be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is
pretty special.”
Alongside larger theatres, Stand Up
and Rock will also be performing
in smaller venues, so is that more
enjoyable?
Jasper says: “For me personally one
of the joys is getting back to the basic
roots of stand-up comedy, eyeball to
eyeball with the audience.
“Yes, I have done the 10,000 seaters,
but essentially people pay £25 to see
you on television because they are just
looking at the screens at the side of you. When you
do those, you tend to talk at the audience and not to
them.
“One of the great joys of doing the 500, 600 seaters
is going back in a way to those folk club days. That
was one of the reasons why I kept doing it since we
started Stand Up and Rock. I rediscovered that sheer
joy of creating laughter.”
Bev adds: “I generally love a small theatre where you
can actually see the audience and they can see you.”
So, what does the future hold?
“Staying alive is probably one of our main
ambitions,” jokes Jasper.
“We’ll just take it tour by tour. Ken Dodd was 90 and
still getting up on stage. I don’t know how long I can
continue, but I will do so until I know I can’t do it as
well as I should be doing it. But hopefully it’s a way
off.
“And I can always become a drummer!” he adds,
sharing one more joke with his old friend.
Jasper Carrott’s Stand Up and Rock tour
with the Bev Bevan Band comes to Lichfield
Garrick from April 27 to 30, 2022. Visit
www.lichfieldgarrick.com for details.
16 www.jaimemagazine.com

BOOK YOUR
PRIVATE TOUR TODAY
LIVE THE LIFE YOU
LOVE IN THE MIDLANDS
Hagley Rd
A456
Birmingham
City Centre
Bath Row
B4127
Harborne Rd
Calthorpe Rd
Birmingham
New Street
Islington Row Middleway
Five Ways
Westbourne Rd
Highfield Rd
†
The
Birmingham
Botanical Hallfield
Gardens School
Church Rd
Audley
St George’s
Place
St James Rd
Charlotte Rd
Edgbaston
Cricket Ground
A450
AUDLEY ST GEORGE’S PLACE OWN YOUR RETIREMENT
Now restrictions have eased, it’s time to take control of our lives. Audley St George’s Place
is an exclusive over 55’s development where you can own your own property, keep your highly
valued independence and live the life you love. And with all that the vibrant city of Birmingham
has to offer right on your doorstep, that’s now easier and more enjoyable than ever. Whether
you want to visit Birmingham’s glorious Botanical Gardens, catch a day’s play at the famous
Edgbaston Cricket Ground, or head into the heart of Birmingham to enjoy the hustle and bustle
of city life – it’s entirely up to you.
Don’t miss your chance to reserve one of the stunning properties at Audley St George’s Place
in the Midlands. Join us for a private tour on a day and time that works for you and enjoy a
complimentary Champagne viewing of our show apartment and luxury facilities.
Call us to request an information pack or to arrange a visit.
0121 238 0015 | www.audleyvillages.co.uk/stgeorgeslocal
Properties from £214,088 based on 75% equity share (other fees apply). For more information please visit www.audleyvillages.co.uk/equityshare
Scan to find
out more
AY_005225_ST_GEORGES_PRESS_AD_REGIONAL_216x303_JAMIE_AW_v2.indd 1 23/08/2021 17:01

P R O P E RTY
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 SUPERB SEVEN-BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE WITH
MORE THAN 7,000 SQ FT OF FAMILY ACCOMMODATION ON THE EXCLUSIVE FOUR OAKS ESTATE
Park House, The Orchards, Four Oaks Estate, Sutton Coldfield: £2,795,000
On the market with Aston Knowles: 0121 362 7878
THE AGENT SAYS: Park House is a modern two storey
home set in a private location on the highly desirable Four
Oaks Estate.
The property is approached from Ladywood Road via
an impressive double driveway entrance, which leads to a
beautiful oak entrance door. From the Italian marble tiled
reception hall the well-laid out ground floor includes a large
drawing room opening into a stunning orangery. From the
drawing room is the family area with guest cloakroom, a
large games room with bar area is a fabulous area for families
to entertain, this area also boasts a cinema room which has
individual electric sockets for cinema seating and has been
sound insulated for optimum viewing experiences.
An open plan kitchen/breakfast room is fitted with
quality cream shaker style wall and floor cupboards with
complementary Quartz work surfaces and Italian solid
marble flooring.
The leisure suite is accessed from the kitchen and features
the swimming pool and hot tub - available by separate
negotiation - shower room and changing room.
The first floor accommodation features a spacious master
bedroom with an attractive en suite bathroom and stunning
dressing room fitted out with quality cream Hammonds
wardrobes. Three further double bedrooms open off the
landing and are served by the family bathroom, beyond
which is bedroom three which has a dressing area and ensuite
shower room.
The guest bedroom is approached through the first floor
laundry room from the central landing which could easily
function as a sitting room with kitchenette ideal if the
spacious guest bedroom and en suite shower room are used as
an annexe.
W E L O V E : T H E F AN T AS T I C L E I S UR E F A C I L I T IE S
AND C IN EM A.
18 www.jaimemagazine.com

PREMIUM SALES
£963K *
AVERAGE SALES
PRICE ACHIEVED
95.9% *
OF THE AVERAGE
ASKING PRICE
ACHIEVED
ONE IN A MILLION
ASTON KNOWLES
HAVE SOLD OVER £32M OF PREMIUM PROPERTIES IN 12 MONTHS!
Our numbers are pretty impressive, just like the properties we manage. That is why we
are the No.1 choice for premium property sales in Sutton Coldfield. Our properties
generate a significant amount of interest and as buyers return to the market, there is
a strong demand for premium residential property in your area.
So if you are considering selling now or in the future, there is no better time to contact
our expert team for a NO-OBLIGATION FREE MARKET APPRAISAL of your property.
0121 362 7878
enquiries@astonknowles.com
www.astonknowles.com
@astonknowles

I N T E R I O R S
Bathe in
serenity
CREATING a calming and tranquil bathroom could do
you the world of good for lifting spirits and ensuring you
have a chilled zone for those self care days.
When it comes to designing your dream bathroom, gone
are the days of sterile, all bright white; this rather clinical
aesthetic has been firmly ditched in favour of a far more
warming and personal environment.
Wallcoverings are the perfect way to inject colour and style
into the smallest room of the house; from jazzy bright tiles
to beautifully patterned wallpaper, you can really go to
town. Perhaps the bathroom is the ideal spot to run wild,
and go for something you love but might not be brave
enough to use elsewhere?
If a long, luxurious soak is your idea of heaven then
prioritise the perfect bath - a freestanding tub can really
add that ‘wow’ factor.
For a touch of warmth, opt for gold, bronze and copper
metallic fixtures and fitting over polished chrome, and
don’t underestimate the power of plants to add a serene
vibe to your room.
BRODEN BATHROOM WALL LIGHT IN ANTIQUE BRASS,
£35, LONDON BATHROOM MIRROR AND SHELF, £35,
SAGE GREEN EGYPTIAN COTTON TOWEL, FROM £3,
AND COMET SELF ADHESIVE FLOOR TILES, £14, ALL
DUNELM. WWW.DUNELM.COM
£182
£410
MAHRI CRACKLE GLAZE HANDCRAFTED BASIN, THE WAY
WE LIVE LONDON. WWW.THEWAYWELIVELONDON.COM
BENTLEY DOUBLE ENDED
BATH BY IMPERIAL
BATHROOMS. AVAILABLE
FROM WWW.TIPPERS.COM.
DAY BIRGER ET MIKKELSEN BAMBOO
WALL ORGANISER, BEAUMONDE.
WWW.BEAUMONDE.CO.UK
SEVILLA DIMMABLE DECORATIVE
BATHROOM PENDANT LIGHT, £182,
MADE TO LAST.
WWW.MADE-TO-LAST.CO.UK
£310
20
www.jaimemagazine.com

£140
£42 £570
GROVE STORAGE PLANTER IN
WHITE/NATURAL, BEAUMONDE.
WWW.BEAUMONDE.CO.UK
EXTRA LARGE TWO-TONE DUSKY
PINK BASKET, BELLY BAMBINO.
WWW.BELLYBAMBINO.COM
DASCHUND BATHROOM ROLL HOLDER,
DIBOR. WWW.DIBOR.CO.UK
EICHHOLTZ DEVON BATHROOM
RACK, SWEETPEA & WILLOW.
WWW.SWEETPEAANDWILLOW.COM
£79
£126
£16
RATTAN BATHROOM BIN, REBECCA UDALL.
WWW.REBECCAUDALL.COM
FROM
£13.39
RODDY WALL LIGHT, POOKY.
WWW.POOKY.COM
BRASS FINISH BATHROOM SET, HOUSE OF
FLORA. WWW.HOUSE-OF-FLORA.COM
BOULEVARD GREY AND BEIGE PATTERNED FLOOR
TILES, £19.66/SQM, DIRECT TILE WAREHOUSE.
WWW.DIRECTTILEWAREHOUSE.COM

ARENA ROMAN BATHROOM BLIND,
FROM THOMAS SANDERSON.
WWW.THOMAS-SANDERSON.CO.UK
MILANO RICHMOND TRADITIONAL BASIN
AND WASHSTAND, £289.99, BIG BATHROOM
SHOP. WWW.BIGBATHROOMSHOP.CO.UK
ANNIE SLOAN BATHROOM WALL PAINT IN
CARNABY YELLOW, AND CHALK PAINT IN
OLIVE, FRENCH LINEN AND OLD OCHRE.
WWW.ANNIESLOAN.COM
MILANO ELIZABETH TRADITIONAL EXPOSED
THERMOSTATIC SHOWER IN BRUSHED GOLD,
£349.99, BIG BATHROOM SHOP.
WWW.BIGBATHROOMSHOP.CO.UK
BATHROOM BLIND FROM A SELECTION
BY THOMAS SANDERSON.
WWW.THOMAS-SANDERSON.CO.UK

STOCKISTS OF ALL LEADING QUARTZ AND GRANITE BRANDS IN THE WORLD:
SILESTONE · DEKTON · FUGEN WORKSURFACES · CRL · CAESARSTONE & MANY MORE
A FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS OPEN TO BOTH TRADE & PUBLIC
Visit our fully fitted showroom showcasing 7 displays of high quality quartz, granite and
stone worktops with over 100 plus extra large samples showing the true detail of the
material. A free sample service is also offered via our website www.ukstoneworx.co.uk
Email info@ukstoneworx.co.uk with a plan/drawing of dimensions
and requirements and we will quote you within 24 hours.
FREE
Tradeworx Loyalty Membership
Scheme for local trades and businesses.
includes a DISCOUNT for your
customers/referrals and a CASHBACK
incentive when jobs are completed.
PLUS
All local traders that sign up to the
scheme are offered a lovely food
freebie from the local Chase Bakery
Cafe (Fridays only).
UK Stoneworx Ltd. Unit 28a Ring Road, Burntwood Business Park, Burntwood WS7 3JG
(opposite Peppermill Interiors)
Open Mon - Friday 8am - 4.30pm. Sat 9am - 3pm. Closed Sundays
01543 742272 · www.ukstoneworx.co.uk · email: info@ukstoneworx.co.uk
facebook · Instagram · LinkedIn @ukstoneworx

I N T E R I O R S
Pumpkin
spice and all
things nice
IF you love nothing more than snuggling up on the sofa
wrapped in a comfy blanket and gazing at a roaring fire,
then this is your time. With autumn upon us, it’s time
to consider how to turn our living spaces into a cosy
sanctuary in preparation for the chillier months ahead.
Take a little inspiration from the changing leaves and
cooler weather to bring a new season vibe into your home;
think earthy tones, spiced candles and textures galore.
Texture plays a huge role in creating a cosy atmosphere, so
look out for the softest, fluffiest soft furnishings to add that
homely feel. Faux furs, beautiful cashmere and sheepskins
are all perfect touchy-feely options.
And with Halloween on the calendar this month,
pumpkins provide the perfect decorative motif to inject
a playful seasonal touch. Go for chic glassware or plush
velvet for options which will last well beyond October 31.
LEXINGTON OATMEAL FABRIC BED,
£499.99, FURNITURE AND CHOICE.
WWW.FURNITURECHOICE.CO.UK
£26
£435
£185
BURNT ORANGE FAUX FUR
CUSHION COVER, AUDENZA.
WWW.AUDENZA.COM
ARLO VELVET ACCENT CHAIR IN BURNT
ORANGE, PEPPERMILL INTERIORS,
BURNTWOOD BUSINESS PARK.
WWW.PEPPERMILLINTERIORS.COM
SET OF THREE LINEN
PUMPKINS, HUDSON HOME.
WWW.HUDSONHOME.CO.UK
£10
AUTUMN LEAVES PENDANT LIGHT,
THE FRENCH BEDROOM CO.
WWW.FRENCHBEDROOMCOMPANY.CO.UK
24 www.jaimemagazine.com

Mason Flooring
SPECIALISTS IN ALL TYPES OF FLOORING
- CARPET RANGES FROM ALL LEADING
MANUFACTURERS INCLUDING BEST SELLING
CORMAR CARPETS, ULSTER & BRINTONS
APPROVED SPECIALISTS
Sales and installation of Amtico flooring
SPECIALISTS IN CURTAINS AND SOFT FURNISHINGS
- RE-UPHOLSTERY SERVICE AVAILABLE -
STOCKISTS OF FABRICS BY HARLEQUIN, ROMO & SCION.
WALLCOVERINGS BY HARLEQUIN.
Langan Carpets & Interiors
Telephone: 0121 308 8998 - Email: langancarpets@gmail.com
1 Cremorne Walk, Lichfield Road, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield, B75 5AL
Telephone: 0121 308 3895
Email: langancarpets@gmail.com
1 Cremorne Walk, Lichfield Road, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield, B75 5AL
Proud to be a family run business for over 35 years
Introducing
the Sudbury
woodburning
stove from
Clock
HOME IS WHERE THE WARMTH IS
Suppliers of: Contura, Clock, Jotul, Gazco, Scan, Town & Country Fires, ACR Heat Products and many more
Installers and suppliers of gas fires, bespoke limestone surrounds, and gas and woodburning stoves, since 1981.
1/7 High Street, Erdington B23 6RG Next to Highclare School
Telephone: 0121 384 5251 - www.abbeyfirecentre.co.uk
Open: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed Wednesdays), Sat: 10am - 2pm
abbeyfirecentre @abbeyfirecentre abbeyfirecentreltd

£98.95 £675 £29.99
AUTUMN LEAVES MERINO
THROW, ANNABEL JAMES.
WWW.ANNABELJAMES.CO.UK
PAIR OF LANA GOLD TIPPED VELVET
DINING CHAIRS IN TURMERIC,
AUDENZA. WWW.AUDENZA.COM
AUTUMN TWIG TREE DECORATION,
LIGHTS4FUN. WWW.LIGHTS4FUN.CO.UK
£35
AUTUMN LEAVES CUSHION,
THE THROW COMPANY.
WWW.FAUXTHROW.COM
£17
CASHMERE TOUCH FLEECE THROW
IN EARTH RED, WALTON & CO.
WWW.WALTONSHOP.CO.UK
£30
LARGE DARK BURNT ORANGE VELVET
PUMPKIN, BEAUMONDE.
WWW.BEAUMONDE.CO.UK
EBBA SEAGRASS TRAY, £27.95, CHARLES TED.
WWW.CHARLESTED.COM
ASTOR GREY VELVET BED, £329.99,
FURNITURE AND CHOICE.
WWW.FURNITURECHOICE.CO.UK
FELT PUMPKIN GARLAND, £15.99,
LIGHTS4FUN. WWW.LIGHTS4FUN.CO.UK

PUMPKIN LATTE CANDLE, £19.50, BURN
WILD. WWW.BURNWILD.CO.UK
AUTUMN GOURD WREATH, £43,
WOODLAND WREATH COMPANY.
WWW.WOODLANDWREATHCOMPANY.COM
SELECTION OF LED PUMPKIN LIGHTS AND
LED CANDLES, FROM £14.99, LIGHTS4FUN.
WWW.LIGHTS4FUN.CO.UK
SQUISHAROO SOFA, £1,445, LOAF.
WWW.LOAF.COM

Jaime_DoubleSpread_October2021.indd 1 22/09/2021 14:49

Jaime_DoubleSpread_October2021.indd 2 22/09/2021 14:49

F E AT U R E
A magical adventure
A SUTTON COLDFIELD MUM HAS FULFILLED A LIFELONG AMBITION BY PENNING A
CHILDREN’S BOOK - INSPIRED BY HER DAUGHTER. AMY NORBURY DISCOVERS MORE
AUTHOR CATHERINE HAIR AND HER DAUGHTER
IMOGEN, THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE BOOK
Catherine Hair has always loved reading. From a
young age, she would immerse herself in the tales of
Roald Dahl, the fantastic escapes of Enid Blyton and
more.
When her daughter Imogen, now five, was born, that
love of reading translated into a cherished bedtime
routine which would see Catherine and her husband,
Nick, deliver not one but three stories each and every
night.
So perhaps it’s unsurprising that the 41-year-old has
always aspired to write a children’s book of her own.
When the coronavirus hit the UK early last year,
sending the country into lockdown, Catherine
decided that it was time to stop dreaming, and start
doing.
“I was reading stories to Imogen every night and
I thought that I’d love to write something which
included her, which could be something she’d keep
forever,” says Catherine.
Catherine started writing her tale during the
first lockdown last spring, using the project as a
distraction from the chaos of juggling work with
homeschooling.
“It was a bit full-on, but my husband always says
I need a hundred things going on or I get bored,”
laughs Catherine.
“It was good to have something fun and positive to
focus on, to take my mind off the stress of everything!
“I’ve always loved writing, ever since I was at school.
It was lovely to have a creative outlet, because even
though I work in a creative industry, it’s not on the
creative side. The book has been a passion project
for me; I wanted to show Imogen that if you’re really
passionate about something, you can do it.”
Catherine’s book tells the tale of Boodle, a magic
bedtime bear, and his best friend Imogen, who makes
a wish to go to space - just in time for Intergalactic
Friendship Day. Each planet they visit has aliens
30 www.jaimemagazine.com

Stunning smiles in
Sutton Coldfield,
While Road
Book
today *
Everyone’s welcome at Bupa Dental Care
Sutton Coldfield, While Road.
We offer a full range of dental treatments including:
• Private check-ups
• Teeth whitening
• Hygiene appointments
• Invisalign teeth straightening
• Implants
• Composite bonding
• Facial aesthetics
Call 0121 392 9663
* Terms and conditions: 1. A new patient check-up fee is £99 and a COVID-19 safety tariff will apply.
2. Appointments subject to availability.
DUK09120 | Sep21
Bupa Dental Care is a trading name of Oasis Dental Care Limited. Registered in England & Wales No: 00478127.
Registered office: Bupa Dental Care, Vantage Office Park, Old Gloucester Road, Hambrook, Bristol, United Kingdom BS16 1GW.

getting ready for the party celebrations, but they
all have some challenges that they can’t solve. Can
Boodle and Imogen help to make sure the party is a
success before it’s too late?
“I wanted to do something that wasn’t a natural
association for a girl, like be an astronaut; I wanted it
to be a bit aspirational in that way,” says Catherine.
“I also wanted it to be a bit educational, but in a
fun way, so there are all these different planets that
Imogen goes to with her magic bear and there are
different problems to solve along the way.”
Imogen meets groups of aliens on each planet who
are all doing different tasks to get ready for the party
and, along with Boodle the Magic Bear, helps them
to get past their problems so they can celebrate
Intergalactic Friendship Day in style.
“All of the different aliens are dealing with different
emotions, such as anger, worry, anxiety, and Imogen
and Boodle do kind gestures to help,” says Catherine.
“Then at the end of the book there are some fun
facts about space as well as puzzles.
“There are also some questions to prompt talking to
your child about feelings, because I always enjoy that
when I’m reading books with Imogen.”
As well as writing the story, Catherine - with
Imogen’s help - designed each of the aliens in the
book. Handily a family member, Matt Garbutt, is an
artist and helped to bring Catherine’s designs to life.
“Matt does a lot of animation, he doesn’t normally
do children’s books but he was happy to get
involved,” says Catherine. “He did so many versions
of each of the characters to get them all right; at one
point we had 25 Imogens to choose from!
“I really wanted to get Imogen’s cheeky personality
across, and getting her facial expressions right in
response to how the aliens were
feeling was really important
too, because I think when kids
are a bit younger and you’re
reading to them, they tend to
look more at the pictures.
“When I started writing, I had
no idea as to how much detail
you need to think about when
you’re creating a picture book!”
Catherine chose to publish
Boodle and Imogen’s adventure
directly through Amazon,
who deal with the printing
and distribution of the book.
A library tour last autumn
was postponed due to the
BOODLE THE
MAGIC BEAR
IS AVAILABLE
FROM AMAZON,
PRICED £4.99
UK going back into lockdown, and with a full time
job, Catherine hasn’t had enough time to devote to
promoting the book.
“When we’re allowed to, we’re going to do the
library tour, which will hopefully enable us to take
Boodle and Imogen’s story out to more people,” she
says.
Catherine was determined that her book would
make a difference, so profits from sales of Boodle the
Magic Bear will be donated to mental health charity
Young Minds.
“There are so many children suffering with mental
health issues in the wake of the pandemic, so I
wanted to use any profits from the book to go
towards a charity to help, and came across Young
Minds,” says Catherine.
“It’s a charity specifically for young people who need
that type of support. I do worry that the next big
epidemic will be a mental health epidemic, and it’s
hard to estimate just how much children have been
affected by the fallout of the pandemic.
“I grew up with a mum who had mental health
issues, and I’ve got friends whose children are
suffering with more anxiety after the upheaval of
being in and out of school. So I thought it would
be good to give something back to people who are
struggling after the crazy time we’ve been through.
“I’m really grateful that Imogen is a bit younger,
so has probably been less aware of everything
that’s happened - she just enjoyed mummy’s
homeschooling!”
Boodle the Magic Bear, by Catherine Hair, is
available to buy now at www.amazon.co.uk
priced £4.99.
32 www.jaimemagazine.com

WELCOME TO BAYLISS BATHROOMS, THE LARGEST INDEPENDENT
LUXURY BATHROOM SPECIALIST IN THE REGION. OUR UNRIVALLED
ONE STOP PROJECT MANAGED SERVICE, FROM DESIGN THROUGH
TO INSTALLATION, IS FOCUSED ON TURNING YOUR DREAM
BATHROOM INTO REALITY.
WHATEVER YOUR REQUIREMENTS, WE CAN PROVIDE YOUR
BATHROOM SOLUTION. WE WELCOME YOU TO VISIT OUR NEW
WEBSITE OR SHOWROOM TO EXPLORE THE BAYLISS EXPERIENCE
AND ALL THE OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO YOU
We offer a complete ‘One Stop’ process to turn your bathroom dreams into reality, which includes:
• A bespoke 2,500 sq ft showroom with over 20 bathroom displays located in Sutton Coldfield
• A specialist design team to create designs to match your every need
• Expert knowledge of our partner brands giving you access to superb products and tiles.
• In-house installation teams working to the highest possible standards
• Management of all aspects of the Project, providing you with a single point of contact, every step of the way
• For those customers who require a Supply Only service, access to all leading brands at competitive cost.
BAYLISS BATHROOMS, 23 GATE LANE, BOLDMERE, SUTTON COLDFIELD B73 5TR
0121 362 1800 - www.Baylissbathrooms.co.uk

F O O D & D R I N K
Country dining in style
AFTER AN IMPRESSIVE MAKEOVER, THE MEYNELL INGRAM ARMS AT HOAR CROSS
HAS BECOME A GASTROPUB ON THE RISE, AS AMY NORBURY DISCOVERED
The Meynell lngram Arms is undergoing something
of a renaissance. After half a decade in the
doldrums, the once-popular country inn was given a
new lease of life when it was taken over by Berkeley
Inns, underwent a serious makeover and reopened to
great acclaim in May 2019.
Nestled in the picturesque village of Hoar Cross -
and counting luxury spa giant Hoar Cross Hall as
a near neighbour - the pub has become something
of a destination for diners and drinkers looking for
anything from a quick tipple after work to a fullblown
celebratory meal.
The Meynell’s meteoric rise from the ashes saw
it named as Newcomer of the Year at this year’s
prestigious Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropub
awards, with the judging panel naming the pub a
‘fantastic newcomer to the gastropub world’, which
‘opened with a bang and has continued to wow
visitors with its menu and drinks offer’.
Part of The Meynell’s appeal is the range of different
experiences a visitor can have under one roof.
The main bar offers a traditional, cosy country
pub space, perfect for a country walk pit stop; think
open fires, tiled floor, wooden tables and a homely
atmosphere.
But venture into the main restaurant and it’s a
different story. This beautifully designed space offers
a stylish and elegant place to dine, ideal for a date
night with your other half, or a special occasion
dinner.
Over in Sam’s Bar, it’s gin serves and cocktails
aplenty, while the stunning courtyard offers al fresco
dining, including private garden pods with cosy
seating, which are wired for sound and scream ‘girls’
night out’.
My colleague and I were invited
to sample The Meynell’s bountiful
offerings for ourselves, arriving
on an impressively busy midweek
evening to find the car park packed
and the courtyard buzzing.
With fiery heaters creating a toasty
warmth whatever the weather, and
pretty festoon lighting illuminating
the stylish space, it’s no wonder
that The Meynell placed in The
Times’ roundup of the best UK
pubs for outdoor seating and beer
gardens.
We made our way inside, and were
34
www.jaimemagazine.com

shown to our cosy table in the main
restaurant.
A pre-dinner raspberry gin fizz cocktail
- a heady combination of raspberry gin,
raspberry syrup and Prosecco - from the
extensive cocktail menu went down a
treat as we examined the food choices.
As a gluten-free diner, my colleague
found she had enough choice, although
she was mildly disappointed that there
was no gluten-free base option for the
pizzas.
To start, I opted for the heritage tomato
and mozzarella salad, with prosciutto,
herb croutes, avocado and a balsamic
dressing, £7.50. A classic combination of flavours, it
was a light yet satisfying start to the meal.
My colleague was impressed with her Hebridean
smoked salmon and king prawn cocktail with glutenfree
bread, £9.50. Fat, juicy king prawns slathered
in a tasty Marie Rose sauce, alongside thick slices of
punchy salmon and ribbons of crisp little gem lettuce
made for an elegant take on a retro classic.
We also shared a delicious portion of - happily
gluten-free - halloumi fries with garlic mayo, £4.90.
Onto the main event, and I was won over by the
corn-fed Normandy chicken breast with homemade
macaroni cheese, baked mushroom and leek, £14.90.
Now, when it comes to comfort food, macaroni
cheese is right up there for me; unfortunately I’m the
only one in my house with that opinion so it’s not
something which features on our dinner repertoire at
home. Happily, The Meynell’s mac and cheese really
hit the spot, with al dente pasta bound in unctuous,
gooey cheese sauce and seasoned to perfection. The
chicken was also well-cooked, moist and tender; it
was certainly a hearty plateful.
My colleague’s gluten-free version of the chargrilled
chicken burger, £12.90, was piled with crispy
bacon, brie, avocado and sweet chilli dressing and
accompanied by chunky chips and house slaw.
Another generous portion, it was a pleasing offering
with a good balance of flavours.
A side of seasonal vegetables, £3.50, ordered under
the pretence of being a bit healthy, was a well-cooked
and varied selection although, dare I say it, a little
surplus to requirements.
Now, strictly speaking, we were both full enough to
give dessert a miss. But in for a penny, we couldn’t
resist the lure of the sweet treats, both opting for The
Meynell’s signature offering.
The Meynell Mess, £7.50, a Hoar Cross version
of the Eton classic, was a dessert and then some.
A knickerbocker glass piled high with ice creams,
meringue, chocolate brownie chunks, berries,
marshmallows and more, it was a powerhouse pud
able to satisfy even the sweetest tooth.
At the tail end of an already substantial meal, my
colleague and I each manage to make an impressive
dent in this behemoth of a dessert before sadly
having to admit defeat. Perhaps, with hindsight, this
is one dish more suitable for sharing.
In a relatively short space of time, The Meynell has
gone from derelict to a stalwart of the gastropub
scene.
And whether you want cosy tradition, stylish dining
or a party vibe, The Meynell ticks all of the boxes.
www.jaimemagazine.com
35

F O O D & D R I N K
Staffordshire on show
THE MIDLANDS’ NEWEST FOODIE WEEKENDER, LOVE CHEESE LIVE, COMES TO STAFFORDSHIRE
ON OCTOBER 22 AND 23, WITH A WHOLE ROOM DEDICATED TO SHOWCASING THE BEST OF THE
COUNTY. KATY EDGINGTON CAUGHT UP WITH TOP STAFFORDSHIRE CHEF THOM BATEMAN, WHO
WILL BE TAKING TO THE STAGE OVER THE WEEKEND
Autumn is well and truly here, bringing with it one
of the biggest events on this year’s Midlands foodie
calendar.
Love Cheese Live and the International Cheese and
Dairy Awards come to the Staffordshire County
Showground on the 22 and 23 October, where you
can indulge a passion for cheese combined with food,
drink and celebrity chefs. More than 400 exhibitors
and producers will showcase the finest dairy - and
non-dairy - products at what promises to be a jampacked
weekender.
The Eat + Drink Staffordshire area will feature
artisan food and drink producers from across the
county, plus a host of incredible chefs including Rob
Palmer, former head chef of Michelin-starred Peel’s
at Hampton Manor, and Susie Mandleberg, head
chef at Lichfield’s Thyme Kitchen, where Rob will
soon be completing a residency.
Also featuring in the line up of top chefs working
in Staffordshire today is Thom Bateman - chef
patron of The Flintlock at Cheddleton, Staffordshire
Moorlands. We caught up with Thom to find
out what to expect and why he’s excited about
showcasing local produce at such a huge event.
STAFFORDSHIRE CHEF
THOM BATEMAN
“When I was first contacted, I realised this was a big
show and was keen to get involved, but I was a bit
surprised to find out it was in Stafford,” Thom says.
“With such an emerging dining scene in Staffordshire
at the moment, backing it up with somewhere to go
and learn more, get some produce, and meet local
chefs is important, so that people realise great
food is not just hidden away in London or
other big cities.”
Thom’s first restaurant, The Flintlock,
opened in September 2020 after a full
refurbishment during the turmoil of the
pandemic. The canalside dining room
serves elegant food, led by the seasons and
beautifully plated: Thom describes his
cooking style as “spontaneous, creative and
considerate of the dining experience”.
Passionate about sustainable, local ingredients
and building close relationships with
suppliers, he is keen to spread the word
about two producers - Staffordshire Cheese
Company and Staffordshire Brewery - who
are right on the restaurant’s doorstep.
36 www.jaimemagazine.com

ROB PALMER TAKES OVER AT THYME
KITCHEN – FOR JUST THREE MONTHS!
At Hampton Manor, Rob led Peel’s restaurant to its first
Michelin Star in 2016, along with 4 AA Rosettes - and retained
them to this day. In a new chapter for Rob, before the opening
of his first solo restaurant - Toffs by Rob Palmer in Solihull - he
is going to take over the kitchen at Thyme Kitchen in Lichfield.
Rob will be showcasing his fantastic new menu for Thyme
Kitchen diners on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Book
now for this exclusive opportunity during October, November
and December.
SUPPER CLUB FAVOURITE OLI MARTIN
RETURNS TO LICHFIELD NOV 12/13TH
MasterChef: The Professionals finalist Oli Martin has been
Head Chef at Hipping Hall, Kirk Lonsdale for 6 years where he
was awarded 4 AA Rosettes. Oli has decided to move on and
has recently set up his own private catering company which is
guesting at Thyme Kitchen! Oli will serve up a stunning tasting
menu in November. Come along and hear all about his plans
and enjoy a cracking night out with Sauce Supper Club at
Thyme Kitchen.
Book now - call 01543 264050
E hello@saucesupperclub.co.uk
www.saucesupperclub.uk

THOM IS CHEF PATRON OF THE
FLINTLOCK IN CHEDDLETON
“Staffordshire cheese is exceptional - it’s like cheddar,
but better!” he insists. “We use it a lot and we
hope to help promote it at the show. Likewise, the
attention to detail that the Brewery put into making
their range of beers lends them to so many uses aside
from the obvious.”
Thom has risen to social media fame in recent
years through his popular Instagram account @
chefthombateman (previously @bboxfood). It
opened the door for him to work with comedian Jack
Whitehall and FoodSlut on Taste of London, about
which he says: “The exposure that’s given me has
been great and it brings people to the restaurant who
perhaps wouldn’t have known about it otherwise.”
More recently, he has appeared at Tom Kerridge’s
Pub in the Park at Marlow, an opportunity he
believes was made possible by his enthusiastic social
media following.
Meanwhile back at The Flintlock,
preparations for the festive season are
well under way, with Christmas and New
Year menus being finalised as we speak.
“If I favoured a season it would be
autumn or winter, definitely,” Thom
adds. “There are elderberries and
blackberries around at the moment, and
we’re coming into game season with all
that lovely venison, grouse, partridge, and
so on. I’m a bit obsessed with Jerusalem
artichokes - you can get them from
abroad already but we don’t do that, so
I’m looking forward to their UK season.”
So, what can visitors expect to see from
Thom when he cooks on the Eat + Drink
Staffordshire stage?
“I don’t do pedestrian! I bring
something different wherever
I go. The decision about what
to make will be left fairly late
to facilitate that process. It’s
not going to be a dish we make
a thousand times a week at
The Flintlock. It becomes a
more authentic experience
then - the audience will see
‘me’ a bit more. I’ll probably
forage some bits and bobs.
For Pub in the Park I foraged
some elderberries along the
canal, which left me with a few
scratches!”
Showcasing what the county
and its chefs have to offer is
what Thom is looking forward to most, although
there is a well-known face he would love to see.
“Even if Marco Pierre White told me off for
something, I’d be happy,” he jokes. “Meeting famous
chefs is grand, but watching people’s reactions and
seeing their enjoyment of what you’re doing is much
more valuable.”
Online ticket sales for Love Cheese Live closed on
30 September. Tickets are available on the door
priced at £20 for adults, while under 16s go free.
Tickets for demonstrations by Marco Pierre White,
Matt Tebbutt, James Martin and Michel Roux Jr are
just £5. Many more chefs and experts - including
Thom - will be cooking on both Friday and Saturday
with no booking needed. For more information, visit
www.lovecheeselive.co.uk
38
www.jaimemagazine.com

Book now to celebrate Christmas & New Year at 4* Moor Hall Hotel & Spa in
Sutton Coldfield. We have a huge choice of festive events plus dining and stays.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast with Santa and Mrs Claus
Available 20th, 21st, 22nd & 24th December
Sit down to a three course lunch with a magic show
and visit from Santa with a gift for all the children
Available 28th November, 5th &11th December
A great family event with a performance from Santa
and his elves with lots of songs and dancing
Available 18th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 24th December
A fun evening for all the family
Available 5th & 12th December
Solve the ultimate crime of “whodunnit” with the
Cluedo characters at our family event
Available 20th December
Includes a glass of Prosecco, three course meal,
disco and photo booth
Available on various dates
Enjoy a festive Afternoon Tea with Christmas songs
performed by our live choir
Available 1st, 3rd, 10th, 13th, 15th December
Sit down to a festive Afternoon Tea as our live performers
sing songs from Michael Bublé
Available 2nd & 7th December
Enjoy a festive “whodunnit” with plenty of yuletide fun
Available 30th November & 7th, 14th, 21st December
Welcome in 2022 in style! Our evening includes 5
course dinner, photo booth, disco and traditional piper
Moor Hall Drive, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield B75 6LN
0121 308 3751 www.moorhallhotel.co.uk

F O O D & D R I N K
Village pub wins national award
A LOCAL PUB HAS BEEN NAMED ONE OF THE BEST
AROUND AT THE NATIONAL PUB AND BAR AWARDS
The Red Lion in Newborough triumphed at a
national awards ceremony, where it was named
County Winners for Staffordshire.
The National Pub and Bar Awards showcases the
UK’s finest pubs and bars on a national scale, and
awards are given to the best venues in 94 counties
across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern
Ireland.
The Red Lion in Newborough, part of the Webb
Hotel Group which also includes Moor Hall Hotel
in Sutton Coldfield and The George Hotel in
Lichfield, was announced as the Best Pub and
Bar in Staffordshire, and managers Ryan and Gail
Wheeldon picked up the prestigious award at the
ceremony in London on September 6.
Often described as a ‘hidden gem’, The Red Lion
in Newborough is a traditional-style country pub
where good food, great service, excellent value and a
very warm welcome are guaranteed. The pub is very
popular with locals and attracts many groups such as
the local cricket club, parish council and shoots, as
well as attracting more and more diners from outside
the area.
The food at The Red Lion is a modern twist on
classic homemade pub food, but also with some
MANAGERS RYAN AND GAIL
WHEELDON PICK UP THEIR
AWARD
THE RED LION AT NEWBOROUGH WAS NAMED
STAFFORDSHIRE PUB AND BAR OF THE YEAR
experimental dishes. The locals love the rotisseriestyle
chicken and the steaks sourced from the local
butchers. The pub also offers a wide range of drinks
including real ales, craft IPAs, gins and a cocktail
menu.
The pub is rated four-and-a-half out of five for food,
service, value and atmosphere on TripAdvisor, and
is listed 4th out of 124 restaurants in Burton upon
Trent. The pub is rated five out of five on Facebook
with 116 reviews.
Husband and wife, Ryan and Gail Wheeldon, who
manage the pub, said: “We are beyond thrilled to
have won this prestigious award. It really means so
much to us and The Red Lion team that we can
celebrate this massive achievement and look forward
to a positive future.
“We entered the awards before the pandemic and
we had lots of plans to develop the pub with themed
evenings and events and become more involved with
the local community. However, this all changed with
the lockdown and we focused instead on helping the
community by opening a village shop and takeaway
service.
“We then repainted the exterior of the pub and
upgraded our garden and outside dining areas so
that our customers could feel safer in returning to the
pub when we reopened.”
Visit The Red Lion in Newborough and find out for
yourself why it is the Best Pub in Staffordshire. Check
out the website at www.redlionnewborough.co.uk
for more details.
40 www.jaimemagazine.com

Autumn & Winter At The Deer Park
CRUNCHING LEAVES, VIBRANT VIEWS AND THE RED-TINTED, GOLDEN HUES OF
AUTUMN HAVE INSPIRED OUR NEW MENU WHICH MAKES THIS EARTHY SEASON THE
PERFECT TIME TO VISIT THE DEER PARK. NEW SEASONAL MENU FROM OCTOBER 1ST.
Trick or Treat Street in The Woodland Walk
New for 2021 our spooky, fun filled ‘Trick or Treat
Street in The Woodland Walk’, join us to wander
from dusk to darkness from hidden door to ghostly
gate in our haunted Woodland Walk… if you dare?
Tickets Available Now, only £5.
Fiendishly good ‘Hot Toddy’ or devilishly decadent
‘hot chocolate’ plus a selection of spooky delights
will be available to purchase in The Linhay until
7.30pm. Could it be a trick of the light or do things
really go ‘bump in the night’.
SATURDAY 30 TH & SUNDAY 31 ST
4.30-8PM
Eton Taylor & SOS Lingerie Fashion Show
Fashion Show with Christmas Market preview,
£40 including a reception drink and canapes.
Bar available. To reserve your ticket please phone
01283384464 or email info@deerpark.farm
and we’ll contact you.
NOVEMBER 4 TH 7PM - 9.30PM
Autumn / Winter Supper Clubs;
OCTOBER 28 TH – SPOOKTACULAR TREATS
NOVEMBER 25 TH – ‘GAME ON’
DECEMBER 16 TH – FESTIVE SPECIAL
The Deer Park Charity
Christmas Market
Friday 5th and Saturday 6th November 10am – 4pm
50 handpicked local food and artisan stalls,
come and meet some of our suppliers
Instant Photos taken with Santa by Portfolio Photographic
Free parking, refreshments available
£3 entrance donation.
The Deer Park is open 8.30am - 5pm, Tuesday - Sunday (closed
Mondays) for Breakfast, Lunch and Light Bites without booking.
We take bookings for Sunday Lunches (before 5pm previous
Friday) and Afternoon Teas. Afternoon Teas are available on
Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
For further Information or to book for Supper Clubs, Afternoon
Tea or Halloween ‘Trick or Treat Street in the Woodland Walk’
please email info@deerpark.farm or call 01283384465
MAKER LN, HOAR CROSS, BURTON-ON-TRENT DE13 8QR. TEL: 01283 384477
MONDAY - CLOSED. TUESDAY - SUNDAY 8.30AM - 5.00PM. LAST ORDERS FOR FOOD 4.00PM
DEER.PARK.FARM THE DEER PARK

F O O D & D R I N K
Starry nights in Lichfield
ACCLAIMED CHEF ROB PALMER IS TAKING OVER AT LICHFIELD’S THYME KITCHEN FOR
EVENINGS THROUGHOUT THE REST OF THE YEAR, BRINGING A TASTE OF THE CULINARY
DELIGHTS WHICH WON HIM A MICHELIN STAR AT PEELS RESTAURANTS AT HAMPTON MANOR
Thyme Kitchen has earned a stellar reputation
for its bountiful brunch offerings and delectable
evening feasts since opening last year as a base for
Lichfield’s prestigious Sauce Supper Club, run by
husband and wife team Beth and Jon Toovey.
Sauce Supper Club delivers relaxed fine dining
experiences through a series of pop-up kitchen
events. Chefs from Michelin starred restaurants
and highly commended chefs come along to
showcase their food and talents with the emphasis
on bringing amazing food experiences to new
audiences.
Throughout October, November and December
Rob Palmer, formerly of Peels Restaurant at
Hampton Manor, is taking over evenings at
Thyme, offering a five-course tasting menu. Rob
led Peels Restaurant to their first Michelin Star
in 2016, along with 4 AA Rosettes at Hampton
Manor.
In a new chapter for Rob, and with his first solo
restaurant Toffs by Rob Palmer just a few months
away from opening in Solihull, Rob is going to
give diners at Thyme Kitchen a sample of his
new menu on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
Rob has designed a stunning menu reflecting his new
Toffs menu.
Berkswell cheese custard
Rob Palmer has shared the recipe for his delicious
Berkswell cheese custard, which forms part of the first
snack on his debut Thyme Kitchen menu. Serve with a
cracker or grilled asparagus for simple, yet tasty appetiser.
Ingredients
2 eggs, boiled for six minutes, chilled and shelled
200g grated Berkswell cheese
200g boiled cream
Put the boiled eggs and cheese in a blender and blend
to a paste, gradually add the hot cream and blend until
smooth, season to taste. Pass, then put into piping bags
and chill.
Historically, Sauce Supper Club toured the UK with
their sellout events; however when the pandemic hit
they had to remodel our business - and quickly.
Beth Toovey says: “With all our events cancelled
we got together with Tom Shepherd, formerly of
Adams in Birmingham to deliver restaurant quality
food, prepped ready to reheat and plate at home.
Looking for a kitchen to work from led us to our now
permanent base at Thyme Kitchen. We have opened a
brunch cafe in the daytime serving stunning breakfasts
along with more unusual dishes of Persian Eggs,
shakshuka and our infamous breakfast naan - a real
hit!
“With the current situation, having a permanent base
to offer our Supper Clubs has been fantastic. As well
as Rob Palmer, we have Oli Martin, MasterChef:
The Professionals finalist 2018 and former head chef
of Hipping Hall popping up at Thyme Kitchen on
November 12 and 13, cooking a six-course tasting
menu for £75 per person.”
42 www.jaimemagazine.com

Refresh your home with soft furnishings
from our family owned and run business
Curtains | Blinds | Cushions
Shutters | Paint | Wallpaper
3 year guarantee
Expert fitting service
Top brands | great prices
8,000+ fabric options
See our recent reviews
«««««
Lichfield Showroom
Order now for Christmas
Interior Choice
1st Floor
Sure Store
WS13 6UY
Visit our Showroom (by appointment only) Open 7 days a week, including late openings
Book online interiorchoice.net or call 01543 406162
PHOTO ME
FREE no obligation design service with our kitchen specialists
16 -18 Britannia Way Britannia Enterprise Park, Lichfield WS14 9UY • 01543 263340
info@lichfieldkitchensandbedrooms.com • www.lichfieldkitchensandbedrooms.com
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Sat 9.30am - 12.30pm 12.30pm – 4.00pm by appointment only.

T R AV E L
Unrivalled space at sea
OLIVER AT RB COLLECTION STEPS ONBOARD REGENT SEVEN SEAS SPLENDOR TO SEE
WHY THIS IS DESCRIBED AS ONE OF THE MOST LUXURIOUS SHIPS IN THE WORLD
THE REGENT SPLENDOUR IS ONE OF THE MOST
LUXURIOUS CRUISE SHIPS IN THE WORLD
I have to be honest; cruise holidays have never
appealed to me. I experience terrible motion sickness
even in a car so the thought of being at sea did
concern me a little. However, I knew it was a oncein-a-lifetime
invite when Regent Seven Seas called,
plus I was intrigued to see how the cruise lines are
coping post-Covid - and maybe it was the perfect
time to face those fears.
At just under 55,000 tonnes with only 750 passengers
and 375 suites, Splendor is considered one of the
most luxurious cruise ships in the world, offering
unrivalled space at sea. The ship boasts a 73.9 to
one space to guest ratio compared with 41 to one
on a typical premium ship carrying around 3,000
passengers - very important in a post-Covid world.
Splendor had a frustrating first year of sailings
starting in February 2020. From Rome, she sailed
over the Atlantic for her spectacular naming
ceremony in Miami watched by more than 35,000
online viewers. Sadly, this brand new six-star ship,
the second Explorer Class from Regent, only made
it as far as San Diego before offloading as the
pandemic suddenly hit.
Fast forward 18 months and the enthusiasm from the
crew and team is infectious as we stepped onboard
for the second attempt of her inaugural season.
Our journey would take us from Southampton to
Portland and onto Falmouth for a short four-night
UK tester sailing.
My expectations were high having sat through many
44 www.jaimemagazine.com

Regent training sessions and arranged several of
their cruises already. Splendor is the sister ship to
Explorer, made famous from the TV documentary
Building the World’s Most Expensive Cruise Ship.
They are the only cruise line to include everything
you need with no hidden surprises once onboard;
flights, transfers, all food and drink (including
specialty restaurants), unlimited shore excursions,
gratuities, WiFi and even laundry!
No expense has been spared on Splendor, and
while the ship oozed luxurious opulence, it was
presented in a sophisticated and intellectual way
with a glamorous flavour and a surprisingly relaxed
atmosphere. There are, for example, no formal
nights or demands to wear ball gowns and tuxedos
onboard Regent’s ship, something many would be
surprised about. The dress code is ‘casually elegant’,
so you can always be at ease onboard.
Unlike the larger ships, cabins onboard Regent
are all suites and start from 307 square-feet up to
the huge 4,443 square-foot Regent Suite, which I
was lucky enough to see while onboard and which
features a second guest room and private outdoor
deck jacuzzi!
All suites come with their own balcony
as a minimum. They are decorated in
soft tones with classic lines, modern,
fresh touches and sumptuous bed linens
and furniture making it extremely
comfortable. The entry-level suite
onboard is equivalent to two-cabin
upgrades and sizes up from the smallest
cabin onboard larger ships, so even with
the lowest priced option you are already
experiencing an enhanced experience
onboard.
Our jaws dropped to the floor when
we found our Splendour Suite, with its
own living room, triple length balcony,
separate (huge) bedroom and a bathroom
larger than some city centre apartments.
The jacuzzi bath was a real treat and this
was certainly one of the most luxurious
experiences I had ever had anywhere around
the world.
The ship’s art collection also really stood out
for me. The $5m collection includes original
works by Picasso, Joan Miro and Eduardo
Arranz-Bravo to name a few, and you can
enjoy expert-led tours to learn more.
You could enjoy six meals a day if you
wished: breakfast, morning coffee and cake,
lunch, afternoon tea, pre-dinner canapés
and dinner… and maybe a midnight dessert too!
Our first night onboard was the tail end of a mini
heat wave in the south of England, we hadn’t made
dinner reservations and I was determined to enjoy
the sunsetting as we set sail from Southampton. My
request for an outdoor table at the Italian restaurant
Sette Mari was not only granted, but we ended up
with the best seat in the house privately overlooking
the rear of the ship to watch the sunset. We had only
been onboard a few hours but already were made to
feel very special indeed.
We also enjoyed meals in Prime 7, which specialises
in steaks and other American inspired dishes,
Compass Rose which has a fun build-your-own
menu, and unique chef ’s specials accompanied by
personable, light-hearted yet attentive service. On
our final night we dined in Pacific Rim, definitely
THE talk of the ship.
We enjoyed soft shell crab tempura and signature
curries. We casually mentioned on our way into the
restaurant it was our wedding anniversary weekend
and by the end of the meal we were presented with a
personalised dessert from the restaurant team. This
THE SPECTACULAR BATHROOMS
OFFER AMPLE SPACE FOR PAMPERING
www.jaimemagazine.com
45

ENJOY THE VIEWS FROM YOUR PRIVATE DECK
Asian-fusion restaurant would give any of the top
Michelin star locations around the world a run for
their money.
It is difficult to describe just how attentive, personal,
and impressive the service was onboard. Each crew
member was allowed to let their personalities shine
and this really helped create a personable connection
while not compromising on luxury service.
Wine was always paired perfectly by the onboard
sommeliers and when something didn’t take your
fancy a little hint of what you may prefer was
immediately considered. Within minutes a perfect
suggestion appeared, on this occasion it was a glass
of Saint-Fleurin Mâcon-Villages.
Entertainment onboard takes the form of a nightly
West End-style show created by the onboard team,
live music in two of the bars and special events. We
enjoyed sampling the cocktail list while making new
friends, sharing stories about travel, cruise ships
and the service onboard – which was one of the top
talking points amongst guests.
Other activities you can enjoy onboard include a
beautiful pool deck with large pool, Jacuzzis, plenty
of oversized cabanas to relax under the sun, along
with a jogging track, fitness centre, spa, casino,
boutiques and, of course, plenty and plenty of space
to sit back and watch the scenery go by.
One of the most unique activities I took part in was
the Culinary Arts Kitchen. I’m not exactly confident
in the kitchen but this was a great opportunity to
spend time with executive chef Kathryn Kelly along
with 17 of my fellow passengers as we watched and
learnt how to make some quintessentially British
dishes. This purpose-built teaching kitchen was the
perfect place to learn a few new skills and it was an
original take on the traditional cooking class - and I
must say my English scones were tasty too!
If, like me, you are wondering about the
environmental impact of cruise ships, I was pleased
to hear about some interesting initiatives
Regent’s owners have been investing in.
These include turning food waste into fish
food and installing power facilities in ports
so the ships can turn off their engines and
reduce carbon emissions.
After our return to Southampton the ship
welcomed its first paying passengers and set
sail for the Mediterranean before heading to
Miami in November where she is based for
the winter Caribbean, Mexico, and South
America cruises. Next year Splendour will
return to Europe in April.
This really was a trip where I stepped out of
my comfort zone. Cruises and cooking classes were
last on my travel ‘to do’ list, however I took the leap,
and the feeling of achievement, satisfaction and
overall enjoyment outweighs any fear and worries I
previously had. There are certainly huge benefits to
seeing the world by cruise ship as you can see a lot in
a small period in comfort, familiarity and with good
company.
As for the motion sickness concerns, this was quickly
combated with a daily dose of medication, and you
quickly realise how stable these modern ships are – at
the end of the day they want you to enjoy your time
onboard, and I most certainly did!
Oliver sailed aboard Regent Seven Seas Splendour
on September 4, 2021 for four nights to Devon and
Cornwall.
OLIVER ENJOYED COOKERY
CLASSES IN THE CULINARY ARTS
KITCHEN
46
www.jaimemagazine.com

ALDERLEY
KITCHEN
ELEGANT & CONTEMPORARY
EUROPA WAY, LICHFIELD, WS14 9TZ Woodburning &
01543 440020 | SHOWROOMS.TIPPERS.COM multifuel stoves
WEEKDAYS
7.30AM - 5.00PM
SATURDAY
8.00AM - 2.00PM
BOOK AN
APPOINTMENT
APPOINTMENTS.
TIPPERS.COM
t he heart of t he home...
Visit our showroom to be amazed by the choice -
from traditional to modern
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!
5 Stafford Road, Lichfield WS13 7BZ - Tel: 01543 263 383 • www.thefireplacelichfield.co.uk • Email: sales@thefireplacelichfield.co.uk
Opening hours: Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 4pm. Closed Sundays, Monday’s and bank holidays . FREE ON-SITE PARKING.

J’AIME
Exclusive
Reader
Offer
WEST END-STYLE SHOWS ARE
A REGULAR EVENT
We have hand-picked three special
European Regent sailings to offer J’AIME
readers the chance to book at an exclusive
price, including suite upgrades, onboard
Splendour’s sister ship Voyager.
Option 1:
Rome to Barcelona, March 26, 2022 calling
at Naples, Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, Tuscany,
Nice, Provence, Menorca and Majorca,
staying in an upgraded Concierge Suite.
RB/J’AIME Price: £3,499pp
(Public/Online price: £6,369pp)
Option 2:
Barcelona round trip via Southern Spain,
the Canaries and Morocco, February 15,
2022 calling at Valencia, Alicante, Almeria,
Grenada, Gibraltar, Tangier, Lanzarote,
Tenerife and Gran Canaria,
staying in an upgraded Concierge Suite.
RB/J’AIME Price: £4,799pp
(Public/Online price: £7,509)
Option 3:
Barcelona to Lisbon, May 5, 2022 calling
at Monte Carlo, Tuscany, Rome, Mallorca,
Cartagena, Malaga and Seville/Cadiz, staying
in an upgraded Concierge Suite.
RB/J’AIME Price: £3,499pp
(Public/Online price: £6,419pp)
To book call Nathan, Oliver or Clare who have
all been onboard Regent’s ships on 01543
258631 mentioning J’AIME Reader Offer.
Prices and availability are subject to change.
GOOD TO
KNOW:
Everything is included: The cruise fare may,
at first look, seem high with Regent however
look at the detail and you’ll see everything
you need is included: flights, transfers, all
meals, drinks, gratuities, WiFi and even
excursions.
Cabin tips: The lead-in Veranda Suites are
great to get you onboard and be able to
make use of all the services and inclusions
plus a good-sized balcony, however it’s worth
checking the Concierge Suites which come
with pre and post stays, a little more space
and suite extras.
Who is it suitable for? If you want to
experience the best of the best in the world
of cruising, this is the perfect option, whether
you are first-timers or seasoned cruisers.
Don’t worry about formalities: The dress
code is ‘elegant casual’, so you don’t need to
worry about packing ball gowns and tuxedos
like on some of the larger ships.
Exclusive added-value: We have worked with
Regent for many years and have access to
exclusive fares, upgrades, and extras such as
pre and post stays. We also know the ships
very well, having stepped onboard ourselves,
which adds extra value to ensure you choose
the perfect cabin in the right location and can
maximise your cruise experience.
48 www.jaimemagazine.com

J’AIME
IS ONLINE
www.jaimemagazine.com
During Baby Loss Awareness Week
we are holding a service
to commemorate the lives of
babies lost in pregnancy or
soon after birth.
Led by experienced celebrant
Sue McFadden at 6pm
A service to Remember
your Precious Baby
Thursday 14th October
At Cannock Chase Crematorium
Norton Road
Cannock
WS12 3HJ
For further information please email
info@cannockcrematorium.co.uk
or telephone 01543 212988

F E AT U R E
Remembering lost babies
CANNOCK CHASE CREMATORIUM IS TO HOLD A SPECIAL SERVICE THIS
MONTH TO COMMEMORATE THE LIVES OF BABIES LOST IN PREGNANCY OR
SOON AFTER BIRTH, IN SUPPORT OF BABY LOSS AWARENESS WEEK
Baby Loss Awareness Week, which
takes place from October 9 to 15,
is a national campaign in its 19th
year, which aims to bring together
communities to give anyone touched
by pregnancy and baby loss a safe
and supportive space to share their
experiences and feel that they are not
alone.
Cannock Chase Crematorium, on
Norton Road, Cannock, will be holding
a special service at 6pm on Thursday,
October 14, led by experienced
celebrant Sue McFadden. The service
will offer a safe, supportive space to
bring together those bereaved parents,
families and friends affected by losing a baby too soon.
Anyone touched by loss is invited to join the service
and mark the lives of these special babies.
Cannock Chase Crematorium will also join the global
Wave of Light at 7pm on Friday, October 15, lighting
the building in pink and blue in memory of all the
babies who lit up the lives of their loved ones for such
a short time.
Jo Walker, crematorium manager, said: “Baby loss
has a wide-reaching, devastating impact on the lives
THE CREMATORIUM TEAM, LEAD BY
MANAGER JO WALKER, SECOND LEFT
CANNOCK CHASE CREMATORIUM WILL BE HOLDING
A SPECIAL SERVICE TO COMMEMORATE BABY LOSS
AWARENESS WEEK
of all those involved. Communities are getting better
at understanding the impact of baby loss on young
families and opening the dialogue to enable young
parents to share their experiences.
“In the time I have been involved in the funeral
industry I have seen a sea change in the care afforded
to parents when their babies die and I am privileged to
be in a position here at Cannock Chase Crematorium
to support parents at the time they say their goodbyes.
I hope this service offers some comfort to anyone
affected by pregnancy and baby loss.”
If you would like to attend the service,
please let the crematorium know by
emailing info@cannockcrematorium.
co.uk or telephoning 01543 212988.
Sue will be reading baby names during
the service at a time of reflection. If you
would like your baby’s name to be read,
please contact the crematorium.
If you would prefer to receive a link to the
service to watch afterwards in the comfort
of your own home this can be arranged
too.
More information about Baby Loss
Awareness Week can be found at www.
babyloss-awareness.org
50 www.jaimemagazine.com

LO CA L A R E A
What’s On for
AS WE COME TO THE SPOOKIEST TIME OF YEAR, WE TAKE A LOOK AT SOME
OF THE BEST HALLOWEEN FUN HAPPENING AROUND THE MIDLANDS
WHAT: PYO PUMPKINS
WHERE: LOWER DRAYTON FARM, PENKRIDGE
WHEN: WEEKENDS FROM OCTOBER 2, DAILY FROM OCTOBER 18 TO 31
Massive pumpkins, mini pumpkins, perfectly formed pumpkins and white pumpkins –
Lower Drayton Farm have got them all.
Get spooky season off to a great start with a visit to a pick-your-own pumpkin patch.
Lower Drayton Farm has planted more than 80,000 pumpkin seeds of various varieties,
over 12 acres, making it one of the largest pumpkin fields in the area. You can rest
assured you’ll find your ‘perfect pumpkin’ match! Once you’ve picked your pumpkin you
can head to the pumpkin carving tent and get creative - no mess to clean up at home!
There will be hot food provided by Pear Tree Farm catering, offering hot dogs and
homemade pumpkin soup, made from the farm’s own pumpkins, as well as soft drinks,
tea, coffee and hot chocolate.
Tickets are priced at £7 per person, including the pumpkin picking experience and a
pumpkin to take home, and must be pre booked online at www.lowerdraytonfarm.co.uk
WHAT: PUMPKIN FEST
WHERE: MANOR FARM FRUITS, HINTS
WHEN: WEEKENDS FROM OCTOBER 2, EVERY DAY FROM OCTOBER 20 TO 31
This year, Manor Farm has grown eight acres of pumpkins, producing more than
60,000 pumpkins, squashes and gourds. The choice of shiny orange pumpkins,
knobbly gourds and quirky shaped squashes will be a sight to be seen.
So, whether you want to carve a large pumpkin, make a delicious pumpkin pie or
simply decorate your house and garden with little pumpkins, they’ll have an ideal
pumpkin for everyone.
As well as the pumpkins, there will be a wonderful Bounce and Climb, including
Straw Pyramids, Mini-Mazes and Space Hoppers for the children to enjoy – it’s a
great outdoor day out for all the family.
Tickets are £2 for adults and £3 for children aged two to 12, with under twos free.
Tickets must be booked online in advance at www.manorfarm.co.uk
WHAT: MORE TREAT THAN TRICK
WHERE: DRAYTON MANOR
WHEN: OCTOBER 16 TO 31
Looking for a spooktastic family-fun day out this October half term? Visit Drayton
Manor between October 16 and 31 for more treats than tricks this Halloween. You’ll
be surrounded by hay bales and pumpkins aplenty, as you enjoy more than 100 rides
and attractions - including Thomas Land, Adventure Cove, the 15-acre zoo, live
entertainment and much more.
Step into Thomas Land and experience all the spooks and thrills with your little ones,
and make it a happy Halloween with all the magical Island of Sodor Island has to offer.
Follow clues to adventure around Thomas Land to find spooky letters and win a prize
on Thomas’ Halloween Hunt, or follow Drayton’s Bale Trail and discover six themed
hay bales around the park to win a prize.
Tickets are priced from £31 for over 12s, £27 for four-to-11s, and £11 for two-to threes,
with under twos going free. Visit www.draytonmanor.co.uk for more details.
www.jaimemagazine.com
51

WHAT: HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR
WHERE: NATIONAL FOREST ADVENTURE FARM
WHEN: OCTOBER 16,17, AND 23 TO 31
Enjoy all the fun of the farm, plus a day packed with spooky Halloween fun at
Burton’s National Forest Adventure Farm.
Take the pumpkin wagon tractor ride to the pumpkin patch and pick your own
pumpkin to take home, then carve your very own Jack O’Lantern, learn to fly with
the interactive Broomstick Training show, and terrify your friends and family with
skills picked up at Scare School.
Elsewhere, mad Professor Lewey welcomes you to his crazy potions lab and mirror
maze, and you can help the hapless wizard at the Tragic Magic Show. There’s a
fancy dress competition too, so come dressed to impress in your spooky best.
Arrive any time from 9.30am and stay all day until 5.30pm to make the most of the
activities on offer. Tickets are priced at £14.99, with under twos going free, and are
available to book online only at www.adventurefarm.co.uk
WHAT: BRICK OR TREAT
WHERE: LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTRE, BIRMINGHAM
WHEN: WEEKENDS FROM OCTOBER 9, DAILY FROM OCTOBER 23 TO 31
This October take your little monsters to LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre
Birmingham and get into the spirit at the ultimate Halloween adventure. There are
so many fang-tastic activities to sink your teeth as well as two awesome rides, lots
of LEGO build and play zones and a 4D cinema experience at the ultimate indoor
LEGO® playground.
Join in the ‘Scarevenger Hunt’; with perilous pumpkins on the loose, bravely enter
haunted Miniland and follow the clues to help solve the puzzle.
Help the Master Model Builder and Playmakers to build a giant LEGO Vampire,
or build your own LEGO pumpkin creations and add them to the Hall of Fame
Pumpkin Patch for the chance to win scarily good prizes. Why not see if the Master
Model Builders have any thrilling tips or tricks to help your awesome creations come
to life?
Halloween activities are included in the standard admission price, from £20.65
per person. For more details visit www.legolanddiscoverycentre.com/
birmingham
WHAT: HAUNTED HOUSE
WHERE: LICHFIELD GARRICK STUDIO
WHEN: OCTOBER 30
Kick In The Head presents an hour-long, fun-filled spooky tale all about ghosts,
ghouls, and strange things that go bump in the night with their spooktacular fun
Halloween show for children of all ages.
Meet the ghost of old Granny Smith who has been rocking in her chair for over 300
years, the haunted stone statue of Scrappy the dog that watches you move around
the room, and listen to the tale of Nancy, the young maid who disappeared in 1850
who’s never left the house and still blows out the candles at bedtime, even to this day.
Mr Giles, the old coach driver, will keep you safe, guide you through the old tales,
and help you learn all about the secrets of the old house.
Socially distant and interactive creepy Halloween fun for all the family with plenty
silliness and spookiness for all ages thrown in. Do you dare enter The Haunted
House? Be afraid… well, just a little bit!
Tickets are priced at £14, or £12 for under 16s. Visit www.lichfieldgarrick.com
to book.
52 www.jaimemagazine.com

N E E D
S O M E T H I N G
S P E C I A L ?
I N V E S T I N Y O U R H O L I D A Y W I S E L Y
tatlowcarpets
& flooring
Quality flooring at affordable prices
Abingdon, Adam’s, Associated Weavers, Axminster, Brintons, Brockways,
Cormar, Crucial Trading, Penthouse, Ulsters, Karndean & Project Floors
Free advice ✔ Free quotations ✔
Furniture moved ✔ Our own regular fitters ✔
CALL AND SEE OUR
NEW RANGES OF
SHEEPSKIN, COWHIDE
AND FLUFFY RUGS.
ADD WARMTH AND STYLE TO
YOUR HOME THIS CHRISTMAS.
Finance facilities now available
@Tatlowcarpetsltd
@Tatlow_Carpets
Please see our website for further details www.tatlowcarpets.co.uk
C A L L N A T H A N - 0 1 5 4 3 2 5 8 6 3 1
Tel: 01543 264766
Open to the public. Mon-Fri: 9.00am - 5.00pm. Sat: 10.00am - 4.00pm
Unit 4, Europa Way, Britannia Enterprise Park, Lichfield, Staffs, WS14 9TZ
Refreshingly Different
A new door for the new decade
Visit our Stylish Showroom
11 Belwell Lane, Sutton Coldfield, B74 4AA - Tel: 0800 996 1241
Visit our fantastic website www.jmiwindows.co.uk - enquiries@jmiwindows.co.uk
Windows | Doors | Bi-Fold Doors | Garage Doors | Conservatories | Orangeries | Secondary Glazing | Window Repairs

W H AT ’ S O N
What’s On this month
WE TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF THE BIGGEST AND
BEST SHOWS AROUND THE MIDLANDS THIS MONTH
WHAT: DIRTY DANCING
WHERE: THE ALEXANDRA, BIRMINGHAM
WHEN: OCTOBER 12 TO 16
Seen by millions across the globe, this worldwide smash hit tells the classic story of
Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds, who
come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their
lives. See the hit film come to life before your eyes with this fantastic, emotional and
triumphant live stage show.
Exploding with heart-pounding music, breathtaking emotion and sensationally
sexy dancing, this sensational stage show features a massive 35 hit songs, including
Hungry Eyes, Hey Baby, Do You Love Me? and the heart-stopping (I’ve Had) The
Time of My Life.
For more details and ticket information visit www.atgtickets.com/birmingham
WHAT: THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG
WHERE: BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME
WHEN: OCTOBER 26 TO 30
Mischief ’s multi award-winning international smash hit comedy The Play That
Goes Wrong is returning to Birmingham Hippodrome, following its previous sellout
successes.
The Cornley Drama Society are putting on a 1920s murder mystery but, as the
title suggests, everything that can go wrong… does! As the accident-prone thesps
battle on against all the odds to reach their final curtain call, hilarious results
ensue.
Hailed “a gut-busting hit” by the New York Times, The Play That Goes Wrong,
now in its seventh year in the West End, has won a host of celebrity endorsements
from the likes of Joanna Lumley: “We laughed until the tears ran down our faces,
it has to be seen” to Ant & Dec: “The funniest show we’ve seen! If you can get a
ticket, go!”
Don’t miss this brilliantly funny comedy that’s guaranteed to leave you aching
with laughter. For ticket details visit www.birminghamhippodrome.com
WHAT: DERREN BROWN - SHOWMAN
WHERE: THE ALEXANDRA, BIRMINGHAM
WHEN: OCTOBER 26 TO 30
The multi award-winning master of mind control and psychological illusion,
Derren Brown, is at his very best on stage. His one-man shows have received wide
critical acclaim and more Olivier wins and nominations than any other in history.
Now with his first brand new theatre show in six years, Derren Brown returns
to astonish and amaze audiences up and down the country, with a stint in
Birmingham this month. The content of Showman remains a closely-guarded
secret, but if you’ve seen him before, you know you’re in for a powerhouse treat!
Derren says: “All I can reveal is that the show will ultimately be about you, the
audience member, because that’s what I find most interesting. There are places
I’d like to take the audience where we haven’t been before. I always aim to have
it deliver more than you’d expect. I’m excited to be at the starting point of that
process. Getting it on the road will be my favourite part of the year.”
For more details and ticket information visit
www.atgtickets.com/birmingham
54 www.jaimemagazine.com

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
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.

FA S H I O N
Knit picking
GET READY TO HIBERNATE IN THIS SEASON’S HEAD-TO-TOE
KNITWEAR LOOKS, SAYS AMY NORBURY
WE may only just be out of an 18-month period of onand-off
hibernation, but as the nights draw in and the
temperatures drop, it’s time to embrace that cocooning
feeling once again - through our wardrobes.
Luxurious knitwear is a perennial cold-weather staple, and
that shows no signs of changing for AW21. In fact, for
this season knitwear is holding a wardrobe takeover, with
head-to-toe pieces arriving with gusto.
From ankle-skimming jumper dresses to body-swamping
ponchos, cashmere berets to knitted handbags, cosy
dressing has been ramped up a notch with this new, pile-iton
attitude.
Designers galore took knitwear to the max in their AW21
shows, with gorgeous knitted dresses in ultra-feminine
silhouettes popping up everywhere from Chloé to Gabriela
Hearst, jumbo cable sweaters offering a swaddle-tastic
option at Khaite and draped, wrapped knitwear giving an
elegant take at Richard Malone.
Colour came into play too, with soft tonal neutrals vying
for supremacy against colour-pop brights, proving once
and for all that there’s a knitwear hero for everyone this
season.
If you only invest in one knitwear piece, make it a knitted
dress. This style hero will be your ultimate fashion go-to
for myriad occasions; team with trainers for casual cool,
add attitude with chunky biker boots and a leather jacket
or vamp it up with sky high thigh-highs.
Elsewhere that autumn/winter must-have, the sweater,
is taking a fashion-forward approach, with fringing,
embellishment and ruffles galore jazzing up your plain
cable knits and elevating the jeans-and-jumper combo to
serious style goals.
Loungewear may have been the style staple of choice for
much of the past 18 months, but this season it’s time to
up your game; look out for classy co-ords in the softest
cashmere to take your laid-back look to the next level.
ANTWERP ARAN JUMPER, £59.50, CORD
MIDI SKIRT, £65, AND MICKA SHEARLING
PHONE CROSSBODY, £29, ALL OLIVER
BONAS. WWW.OLIVERBONAS.COM
56 www.jaimemagazine.com

£49.50
£495
£140
BEA JUMPER IN IRIS PURPLE,
FATFACE. WWW.FATFACE.COM
FRANKLYN CAMEL CASHMERE-
BLEND JUMPER, ALICE + OLIVIA AT
HARVEY NICHOLS.
WWW.HARVEYNICHOLS.COM
SMOOTHIE CHUNKY KNIT CARDIGAN,
FREE PEOPLE AT HARVEY NICHOLS.
WWW.HARVEYNICHOLS.COM
£16
£59
POINTELLE BERET IN GREY,
FATFACE. WWW.FATFACE.COM
CORNELIA JUMPER IN PINK MULTI,
WHITE STUFF. WWW.WHITESTUFF.COM
CREAM FRINGE DETAIL CABLE KNIT JUMPER, £48,
RIVER ISLAND. WWW.RIVERISLAND.CO.UK
JUMPER, £49, AND JEANS, £45, SONDER STUDIO.
WWW.SONDERSTUDIO.CO.UK

FA S H I O N
An eye for style
OPTOMETRIST AND EYEWEAR STYLIST EVA DAVE, FROM RUGELEY,
SHARES HER TOP TIPS FOR LOOKING FABULOUS IN YOUR SPECS
One of the biggest challenges we face when
choosing glasses is knowing which frames suit us,
both anatomically and perhaps most importantly, as
a person. That’s why I created a bespoke Eyewear
Styling Consultation service, to help guide my clients
on the shapes, styles and colours that both work for
them, and which gives them confidence to take on
the world.
At my boutique optical practice, Style Optique,
our styling consultation service offers expert styling
advice and an empowering, fun experience.
Here are my seven top tips to help you look fabulous
in your eyewear:
EYEWEAR STYLIST
EVA DAVE
Embrace colour!
The correct colour against your skin tone has the
ability to dramatically enhance your appearance.
Many people stick to black and brown shades
because they feel safe, but these colours can begin to
appear harsh against the skin as we age. It’s far better
to think of eyewear as ‘make up for the face’ and
find a shade that not only enhances your eyes but
brightens up complexion. Consider your wardrobe
and a colour that will work with three or four other
colours at once. If unsure try teal, which looks good
on most skins, or turquoise and purple which are also
flattering no matter what color pallet is preferred.
Show off your best features!
For example, if you have great cheekbones then
selecting frames which are slightly upswept will really
make them pop and add lift. If you are frequently
complimented on your striking eyes, then select
58 www.jaimemagazine.com

glasses that mirror some of the subtle
colour details, for a look they’ll love and
remember.
Disguise those dark circles
If you suffer from dark circles under your
eyes, it is often difficult to find the right
cream or concealer that will completely
cover them. The solution - opt for a pair
of glasses instead! The trick is finding
frames that follow the line below your
eyes and hey presto -the lines disappear
like magic! And this is backed up from
a study by the American Academy of
Ophthalmology.
Follow the natural shape of the
brow
Eyebrows are on trend right now. For
balance and harmony, the upper rim of
your glasses should follow the natural
shape of your browline, opening up
your eyes giving a wonderful ‘awake’ and energised
appearance.
Frame your eyes
Make sure your eyes are clearly visible in the frame,
creating an open and inviting look and increasing
your connection to others. There is nothing worse
than a pair of glasses that sits too low, or are which
are narrow in depth, appearing to cut off the eyes
and creating a barrier to communication.
It’s all about scale
If you’re small in scale with a finer bone structure,
thinner frames with delicate details work best to
enhance the appearance. On the other hand, for
those with a larger bone structure with prominent
facial features such as wider cheekbones and strong
jawline, thick framed bolder glasses are better for
balance.
Express your personality!
Your eyewear sits in the centre of your face for
everyone to see. Therefore, not only should it
complement your colouring and facial features, but
should also work with your clothing style to help
express who you are.
Do you love to wear clothes which make a statement
and stand out from the crowd? Then go
for bright bold colours and exaggerated
shapes to really reflect who you are. If you
prefer a more stylish, sophisticated look
in your clothing, then eyewear with clean
lines and classic timeless shapes will work
better for you.
Eva Dave is a global eyewear styling
trainer and expert, optometrist and optical
practice owner in the UK, who runs an
award-winning optical styling boutique,
where she offers private eyewear styling
consultations and a unique selection of
handcrafted artisan eyewear. To enquire
about Eva’s Private Styling Consultations
email info@styleoptique.co.uk or call
01630 652945.
www.jaimemagazine.com
59

B E AU T Y
Autumn skincare boost
THE CHANGING SEASON MEANS CHANGING YOUR SKINCARE TO CORRECT ANY DAMAGE
CAUSED DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS. ROYAL FACIALIST AND FOUNDER OF HEAVEN SKINCARE
DEBORAH MITCHELL OFFERS ADVICE ON THE BEST WAY TO RESTORE RADIANCE
As the temperatures start to drop and the summer
becomes a distant memory, it’s time to rethink your
skincare routine for autumn. The air becomes drier
at this time of the year and your complexion starts to
lose moisture, so using the right products now means
you’ll be laying the groundwork for the harsher
winter weather.
HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE: Water
is essential for the skin – it is, after all, the body’s
biggest organ – and making sure we take in enough
of nature’s good stuff every day is essential. While
your daily moisturiser plays an important role in this,
you may find that it needs a helping hand.
Heaven’s range of moisture-boosting Hydrogels
(£37.90) feed, soothe and repair while minimising
redness and inflammation. They also make the
perfect base for your foundation.
EXFOLIATE EACH DAY: Getting rid of daily
pollution and dead skin cells is essential to keep
your complexion in tip top condition, especially
if you suffer blocked pores, blackheads, fine lines
and dryness. Exfoliating speeds up the skin’s
natural healing process, restores clarity and lightens
pigmentation.
My Nettle Polish (£37) contains a clever blend of
phytotherapy ingredients – including nettle leaves,
echinacea and maple sap – that extract toxins
without harming the outer layer of the skin.
GO FOR A THICKER MOISTURISER: You
can get away with lighter moisturisers throughout the
summer but as the seasons change you need one that
will boost hydration levels and help increase elasticity.
My Divine Cream (£64, 50ml) is designed for
all skin types but it works particularly well on more
mature complexions thanks to its innovative antiageing
properties.
HEAL YOUR HANDS: When we wash our hands
too much – as we are all, quite rightly, being asked
to do so now – the harsh chemicals in many offthe-shelf
gels makes our skin too alkaline and this is
when it starts to become dry and flaky.
The super nourishing Vanilla Pod Hand Cream
(£20) is made with powdered sand and added
antiviral sandalwood, and these combined provide a
protective barrier to stop hands drying out and stop
dirt becoming ingrained.
INTRODUCE A SERUM: While traditional
moisturisers sit on the surface of the
face, serums have smaller molecules so
can penetrate the epidermis and deliver
ingredients directly into your skin.
Try my SOS Serum (£55) to balance
oil levels, hydrate and feed the skin while
its vitamin content can help to repair
acne, scars and blemishes. I like to add
1-2 drops to my favourite moisturiser or
foundation.
Heaven Skincare by Deborah
Mitchell is available at Heaven
Health & Beauty, 13a Market
Place, Shifnal, Shropshire and
at Harvey Nichols Birmingham.
You can also shop online at
heavenskincare.com
60 www.jaimemagazine.com

WE ARE A TRUSTED, LOCAL FAMILY, DEDICATED TO PROVIDING
A TRULY PERSONAL SERVICE FOR THOSE WHO NEED US
BURIALS, HORSE-DRAWN FUNERALS, BESPOKE FUNERAL
AND PRE-PAYMENT FUNERAL PLANS AVAILABLE
ALL-INCLUSIVE FUNERAL PACKAGES
FEES FOR CREMATORIUM, DOCTOR AND CELEBRANT INCLUDED
*DIRECT - £1,495 *SIMPLE - £2,300 *TRADITIONAL - £2,950
ALL NEEDS AND WISHES CATERED FOR.
PRE-PAYMENT FUNERAL PLANS AVAILABLE
OUR SECOND FUNERAL HOME IS NOW OPEN AT
152, CANNOCK ROAD, BURNTWOOD WS7 0BG
ALSO AT
16 - 20 NORTH STREET, CANNOCK, WS11 0BA
01543 529813 (ANYTIME)
VISIT OUR WEB AND FACEBOOK SITES TO SEE OUR REVIEWS
WWW.OMALLEYFUNERALS.CO.UK • FACEBOOK.COM/OMALLEYFUNERALS
15,000
COPIES MONTHLY
FREE
THROUGH THE DOOR OF SELECTED
HOMES IN LICHFIELD, SUTTON COLDFIELD
AND THE SURROUNDING VILLAGES.
WE
REMAIN
Established
Established 1990
OPEN
1990
FOR NEW
COVID
RESIDENTS Rosemary Lodge Residential Lichfield Care Home
Lichfield FREE
191 Walsall Road, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 8AQ
Please contact The perfect the Registered 'home Care from Manager home' Jane Evans
The perfect 'home from home'
Tel: 01543
at
415223
Rosemary
E-mail:
Lodge
contact@rosemarylodge.co.uk
Care Home
at Website: Rosemary www.rosemarylodge.co.uk
Lodge Care Home
Rosemary Lodge Care Home for elderly ladies and
Rosemary Lodge Care Home for elderly ladies and
gentlemen offers level of care, community and
gentlemen offers a level of care, community and
comfort that is second to none. Situated short way
Rosemary comfort Lodge that is Care second Home to fRosemary none. Lodge Situated Care Home a short for elderly way
from ladies and the gentlemen city centre offers of a level Lichfield of care, community and set in and landscaped
comfort that is
from second the to none. city Situated centre a short of Lichfield way from the and city set centre in landscaped
gardens, Rosemary Lodge is light, spacious of Lichfield and and
set in gardens, landscaped Rosemary gardens, Rosemary Lodge Lodge is light, is spacious and and beautifully
decorated, beautifully offering decorated; residents just offering the right combination residents of just interest, the activity right and
relaxation. beautifully It is a decorated; place that encourages offering residents residents to retain just their the independence right
and
combination
individuality whilst
of
being
interest,
fully supported
activity
to
and
live a
relaxation.
fulfilled and enjoyable
It is combination of interest, activity and relaxation. It is alife.
place that encourages residents to retain their
place that encourages residents to retain their
independence and individuality whilst being fully
independence and individuality whilst being fully
supported to live fulfilled and enjoyable life.
supported to live a fulfilled and enjoyable life.
Rosemary Lodge Care Home is family run home and has
Rosemary Lodge Care Home is a family run home and has
been highly regarded part of the community for over 30
been a highly regarded part of the community for over 30
years. Offering 24 hour care, our fully trained staff work
years. Offering 24 hour care, our fully trained staff work
together to communicate with residents and ensure
together to communicate with residents and ensure
personal care needs are met in person centered
personal care needs are met in a person centered
approach, thus building an important relationship of trust
approach, thus building an important relationship of trust
and friendship.
and friendship.
All rooms are on-suite, and are designed to comfortably
All Rosemary rooms are Lodge on-suite, Care Hoe is and a family are run designed home and to has comfortably
been a highly
regarded part accommodate of the community individuals for over 30 years. and Offering couples. 24 hour care, our
fully trained accommodate staff work together individuals to communicate and with couples. residents and ensure
persoal There care is needs full Wi-Fi are met connectivity in a person centred throughout approach, thus to building allow an
There is
residents the important
full Wi-Fi
opportunity relationship
connectivity
of of keeping trust
throughout
and in friendship.
to allow
touch with family
residents the opportunity of keeping in touch with family
All rooms are en-suite, and friends and are designed with video to comfortably calls. accommodate
individuals and couples. and There friends is full with Wi-Fi video connectivity calls. throughout to allow
residents the opportunity of keeping in touch with family and friends with
Regular activities and entertainment video calls. are always available,
Regular activities and entertainment are always available,
with Regular activity activities timetables and entertainment distributed are always weekly, available but with activity privacy
timetables with activity
and peace distributed timetables
and weekly, quiet but distributed
is privacy also ensured and peace weekly, and in this quiet but
beautiful is also privacy ensured
and peace and quiet is also ensured in this beautiful
'home from home'.
'home from home'.
Our commitment to offering just the right amount of care
Our commitment to offering just the right amount of care
and support has led to an excellent reputation in the
and support has led to an excellent reputation in the
community and with the care professionals who work
community and with the care professionals who work
with us. We value our staff highly and recognise that their
with us. We value our staff highly and recognise that their
care and commitment are great part of our success.
care and commitment are a great part of our success.
We also offer respite care, holiday stay and limited day
We also offer respite care, holiday stay and limited day
care. To arrange visit or to learn more about us please
care. To arrange a visit or to learn more about us please
get in touch using the contact details below.
get in touch using the contact details below.
ALSO AVAILABLE FOR FREE PICK UP IN LEADING
SUPERMARKETS ACROSS THE AREA.
INTERESTED?
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES TO
JAN ASHLEY
ADVERTISING@JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM
07388 335931
/JAIMEMAGAZINE
@JAIMEMAGAZINE
J’AIME
in this beautiful ‘home from home’
Our commitment to offering just the right amount of care and support has led
to an excellent reputation in the community and with the care professionals
who work with us. We value our staff highly and recognise that their care and
commitment are a great part of our success.
We also offer respite care, holiday stay and limited day care. To arrange a visit
or to learn more about us please get in touch using the contact details below.
Rosemary Lodge Residential Care Home
Rosemary Lodge Residential Home
Rosemary 191 Walsall Lodge Road, Residential Lichfield. Staffs. WS13 Care 8AQ. Home
191 Walsall Road, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 8AQ
In the 191 first Walsall instance Road, please Lichfield, contact Jane Staffordshire, Evans - Registered WS13 Care Manager 8AQ
Please contact or Shirley the Registered Kent - Administration Care Manager. Jane Evans
Please contact the Registered Care Manager Jane Evans
Tel: 01543 01543 415223 415223 E-mail: - Email: contact@rosemarylodge.co.uk
roselodgehome@aol.com
Tel: 01543 415223
Website: www.rosemarylodgecarehome.co.uk
E-mail: contact@rosemarylodge.co.uk
www.rosemarylodge.co.uk
Website: www.rosemarylodge.co.uk
CQC RATING GOOD

B E AU T Y
More than just make-up
MAKE-UP ARTIST RAVITA PANNU TALKS ABOUT THE LOVE AND SUPPORT THROUGHOUT THE
PANDEMIC AND WHY HER JOB IS MORE THAN JUST MAKE-UP. JAZZ SHERGILL DISCOVERS MORE
As the world slowly returns back to its normal ways
of living, the pandemic has had an effect on everyday
life, from hobbies to home renovations, from fashion
to food. And what do all of these have in common?
There are people behind these industries. Some have
been forced to close doors to their businesses, find
work in a new place or have taken on a complete
career change.
Birmingham-based make-up artist Ravita Pannu is
known for her artistry, particularly within the Asian
wedding and beauty industry. She embarked on
this journey 28 years ago, and through hard work,
her love for her craft and being a part of people’s
momentous occasions, she has never looked back.
“My journey started, I guess, from the age of 13
without even realising,” says Ravita. “I had already
started to take steps slowly towards entering the
world of hair and make-up and beyond. Sometimes
the beauty industry isn’t always being recognised as a
reputable one where you can make a career. Anyone
in the beauty industry will know the struggle of not
being recognised for your skills, and being able to
create a healthy business from it.
“I entered doing henna (a traditional form of body
art originating in India, across South Asia and
Middle East) then slowly progressed. I was always
able to understand the concept of hair and stripped
it right back to learn the art of make-up. I’m here
today with a successful, international brand and the
rest is history.”
As a full-time make-up artist Ravita, also known
as “RP”, relies on the events industry for work;
with ceremonies and events cancelled due to the
pandemic, she found herself out of work and with
uncertainty as to when things would return back
to normal, she looked for ways to help support her
family, as well as the community.
“We serve three dynamics; weddings, events and the
beauty industry and all three were hit,” says Ravita.
“Unfortunately, we didn’t receive much government
support so from a business perspective it was so
difficult, for almost 18 months we had zero income.
RAVITA IS A RENOWNED MAKE-UP ARTIST
You’re being kicked not only as a business but also
as a human and dealing with so many emotions,
having to stay strong for your family and friends. The
pandemic is going to be felt for many years to come
and it did allow me to reflect, refine and readjust for
what I wanted for RP Make-Up as a brand.”
Ravita’s business was the main source of income
for her family; being financially hit during this time
meant that she needed something to support her
household, as well as her mental health.
“We are the parents, we are the bill payers, we don’t
live in an extended family, our friends and family
did offer support but it was more than that, I just
couldn’t sit and not do anything. Mentally, I was
exhausted,” she says.
“I was going towards a really dark place. I had to go
back to work because I knew I would deteriorate.
62 www.jaimemagazine.com

RAVITA’S WORK IS
HIGHLY SOUGHT
AFTER FOR
EDITORIAL SHOOTS
There’s only so long you can go on for, I had to do
something. I turned 40 during lockdown and the
biggest present I received was from one of my best
friends who gave me a job as front-of-house at her
café, Punjabi Rasoi – The Great Barr Café. To this
day, I don’t think she realises the impact she actually
had; she allowed me to go back to work, to bring
in money which was much needed with the lack of
government support, to interact with people and
transfer the skills from my business to hers and to be
in a happy place again.
“Many people questioned why I was working in a
café and one thing we need to stop doing is putting
down others and owning what we do, wear your
uniform with pride and never judge others.”
Over the years, RP has built a community on social
media and is an advocate for both supporting small
businesses and female empowerment, and has
provided opportunities for many people starting out
on their careers.
“I have been active on social media for a very long
time,,” says Ravita. “We were all in the same storm
but just in different boats and I quickly recognised
that; whereas I was going through my own personal
battles during the pandemic and as a family, I saw
that there was a sea of supporters, I don’t call them
followers on social media, I call them supporters and
they needed someone to look to, who they could go
to and to let them know it was going to be okay.
“I started doing Instagram Lives and was reaching
out to like-minded people to join in on conversations
while in lockdown. My direct messages were flooded
with love and support and now, upon reflection,
doing this helped me to deal with my own battles
at the time and allowed me to create an even more
authentic platform. It was a safe space, we were all in
it together and it was a real joining of a community.
I was able to provide people with
some moral support, business support
and just some friendly support or a
shoulder to cry on.”
As well as being able to help others
through the power of social media, this
time really allowed Ravita to gather
her thoughts.
“It has allowed me to grow spiritually;
it gave me the opportunity to reflect,
refine, and rejoice what I’ve already
got, have gratitude and to be thankful,
because what can take years to make
can be gone overnight.”
As we begin to move out of the
pandemic, people can start to celebrate
their special milestone events, weddings and
occasions are back on and life for RP is returning
back to what it once was.
“We went from zero to one hundred so quickly,” says
Ravita. “It has been a mad rush since things started
to open up, my feet haven’t touched the ground but
I am so grateful. We need to take lessons from the
pandemic and how we can move forward stronger
as human beings and more as a society as whole. I
was very fortunate, that my business did survive the
pandemic and that’s because of the platform that has
been created and it reached so many people. Many
say you work to live, I live to work, I absolutely love
my job, it’s #MoreThanJustMakeUp.”
For more details visit www.ravitapannu.com or
follow Ravita on Instagram @Rpmakeup
RAVITA HAS COME THROUGH THE CHALLENGES OF
THE PANDEMIC AND IS BACK DOING WHAT SHE LOVES
www.jaimemagazine.com
63

I N T H E N E W S
Wed in style
A SPECTACULAR NEW WEDDING VENUE IN THE HEART OF THE DERBYSHIRE
COUNTRYSIDE HAS RECENTLY WELCOMED ITS FIRST COUPLE
With more than 20 years of experience
in restoring old buildings that have been
neglected and transforming them into
beautiful wedding venues, family-run
Cripps & Co have worked their magic once
again.
Stunning Grangefields is a new wedding
barn situated in the heart of the Derbyshire
countryside, which has become the latest
venue in their impressive portfolio, which
also includes the beautiful Thorpe Garden
at the Thorpe Constantine estate near
Tamworth. Their first couple tied the knot
at the picturesque venue in August.
Grangefields is conveniently located
between Derby and Ashbourne and is
accessed down a long private drive. This
exclusive-use venue has many features which are
typically only seen in five-star hotels – a glass-fronted
show kitchen with a French rotisserie, rotating woodfired
pizza oven and a huge charcoal BBQ as the
centrepiece. Every detail has been thought of from
speakers in the loos (so nobody misses the speeches),
colour changing lights on the dance floor and a stateof-the-art
Funktion-One sound system.
The seven-metre-long oak bar is lit-up with chrome
lights, taken from an old warship, and greenery
hangs from the ceiling, the impressive wall of glass
frames the stunning views out over the Derbyshire
hills.
The old chapel-like ceremony room has more than
150 handmade lead windows, a log fire for the winter
months and hundreds of candles and fairy lights
gives it a magical atmosphere.
Grangefields has been designed with the British
weather in mind – the glass fronted Dutch Barn has
a raised veranda which enables 150 people to have
drinks and canapés in the rain whilst enjoying the
Derbyshire views.
The sheltered courtyard acts as the focal point and is
the stage for the Argentinian Asado (for cooking six
whole lambs), the outdoor ceremony room doubles
up as a bar and the old cow troughs are filled with
ice and drinks. At night, the space is illuminated
with festoon lights, flares and fire pits for toasting
marshmallows.
The food is simple yet exceptional - they buy the
best ingredients, cook them over the open flames
and serve generously. Their in-house wine buyer has
long-standing relationships with artisan winemakers
around Europe, visiting each producer personally
and buying wine directly from the vineyards.
Grangefields shows all prices and availability online
so take a look and book a viewing today, while they
still have availability. Visit the website at
www.crippsandco.com/grangefields
64 www.jaimemagazine.com

I N T H E N E W S
Create your dream smile
AWARD-WINNING SUTTON COLDFIELD DENTAL PRACTICE REECE ASSOCIATES IS
HELPING PEOPLE TO ACHIEVE THE SMILE OF THEIR DREAMS - THANKS TO THEIR
INNOVATIVE TREATMENTS AND STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY
A bright smile is often
one of the first features
people notice when they
meet someone. Warm and
welcoming, a confident smile
can make it easy to create an
instant rapport with a new
acquaintance.
But if you tend to hide your
smile because you’re less
than confident about it, this
can sometimes create a first
impression which is less than
ideal.
Leading Sutton Coldfield
dental practice Reece
Associates are committed to
creating the perfect smile for their patients. Using a
series of innovative treatments, the experienced team
can help to transform your lacklustre smile into a
beam to be proud of.
A smile makeover is a cosmetic procedure that uses
various different treatments to ensure you are left
with a perfect, yet natural looking, smile.
The highly skilled dentistry team at Reece Associates
will listen closely to all of your needs and concerns,
enabling them to design a detailed bespoke treatment
plan outlining all the options that are available to
you. Working closely with each patient at every stage
of the treatment, the team will ensure that the end
result shows off your smile to its personal best.
Treatment options could range from teeth whitening
to improve the colour of your teeth, implants or
bridges to fill in gaps, through to braces or Invisalign
to straighten crooked teeth, and veneers or crowns to
restore chipped or damaged teeth.
Once your treatment plan has been finalised,
Reece Associates will liaise with the highly
skilled technicians at their most reputable dental
laboratories to create a diagnostic wax up, which is a
3D wax model of your mouth which enables you to
see what your finished smile will look like. This also
gives you the chance to change or improve aspects
before your new smile is fitted.
Reece Associates are committed to using the most
advanced technology to assist with all elements of
the dentistry procedure, and to ensure the most
comfortable experience for patients.
One of the latest investments is the iTero Elements
2 Intraoral Scanner, a state-of-the-art scanner which
can capture a detailed 3D image of all your teeth
and their positioning. This dental scanning technique
offers comfort, ease and speed, avoiding the use of
more traditional impression-taking methods which
are often messy and uncomfortable.
The iTero Elements scanner is ideal for procedures
such as implants, Invisalign, bridges and crowns, and
even allows patients to see simulations of potential
Invisalign treatment outcomes, enabling you to
envisage the results before treatment starts.
For more details on the treatment options available
at Recce Associates, visit the website at
www.reeceassociates.co.uk or call the practice
on 0121 355 5180. Reece Associates is based at
22A Chester Road, New Oscott, Sutton Coldfield,
B73 5DA.
www.jaimemagazine.com
65

I N T H E N E W S
Set in stone
A STAFFORDSHIRE FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS, UKSTONEWORX IS HELPING CUSTOMERS TO
ENHANCE THEIR KITCHENS WITH BEAUTIFUL, HIGH QUALITY STONE WORKTOPS
If you’re thinking of upgrading your
kitchen with new, quality worktops,
Staffordshire-based UKStoneworx can
offer expert advice and a personal service
to help you to discover the right worktops
for you.
Run by Leon and Anna Hughes,
UKStoneworx are passionate about
delivering exceptional service along
with the highest levels of quality and
workmanship when creating your new
worktops.
Based at Burntwood Business Park, the
extensive showroom opened in April, and
showcases the stunning range of products
on offer. Seven fully fitted displays allow
customers to envisage what their new worktops will
look like in their kitchens, while more than 100 extralarge
samples show the true detail of the material,
compared to the small swatches customers may have
received previously.
UKStoneworx work with all the main leading quartz
and granite brands in the world, such as Silestone,
Dekton, Fugen worksurfaces, CRL, Caesarstone
and many more. They use the latest LT2D3D laser
templating technology to measure each customer’s
worktops precisely, and also offer a hard templating
service using correx sheets to create a template in
your kitchen.
The team has more than 20 years of experience
in the stone worktop industry, and that extensive
knowledge ensures that each customer is guided and
informed throughout the whole purchasing process.
Family values run through the core of their service.
Owner Leon began his career as a kitchen worktop
fitter, progressing onto laser templating and
eventually becoming a self-employed templator
before taking the natural next step to create the
business which is now known as UKStoneworx as
demand for services grew.
Anna, meanwhile, has vast experience working at
large organisations such as Poundland as a senior
THE STUNNING
SHOWROOM OFFERS
SEVEN FULL DISPLAYS
buyer and as part of major marketing campaigns.
The duo were joined by sales and marketing
manager Terrance Martin in April.
The UKStoneworx showroom is open to both the
trade and public. Local trades and businesses can
benefit from their brand new, free Tradeworx loyalty
membership scheme. The perks of this membership
include a discount for your customers or referrals,
and a cashback incentive when jobs are completed.
UKStoneworx have also recently launched a Free
Food Friday incentive for all local trades that sign
up to the scheme, with a delicious freebie from the
Chase Bakery cafe on a Friday.contact information
and opening hours
The UKStoneworx showroom at Unit 28A
Burntwood Business Park is open from Monday to
Friday, 8am to 4.30pm, and on Saturdays from 9am
to 3pm. For more information call 01543 742272.
To request a quotation email info@ukstoneworx.
co.uk - all that is required is a plan or drawing
of dimensions and requirements, and the team
will get a quotation over to you within 24 hours.
UKStoneworx also offers a free sample service,
which is available via the website at www.
ukstoneworx.co.uk. You can also follow
UKStoneworx on Facebook, Instagram and
Linkedin @ukstoneworx
66 www.jaimemagazine.com

Established – Professional – Transparent
The Winterton family name has been synonymous
with auctioneering in Staffordshire since 1864
Probate and formal valuations for
inheritance tax purposes
Our reliable and sympathetic
team can assist all executors in the
administration of deceased estates
From jewellery and large collections
to cars, furniture and household items,
we handle everything
Comprehensive, bespoke
clearance service and
downsizing solutions
We handle clearance of an entire
estate from houses, bungalows and
flats to offices and all other buildings
Jewellery, Watches & Silver
Sutton Coldfield
The Trinity Centre
Church Hill, Mill Street, B72 1TF
Discover that hidden gem with your local auctioneer
We specialise in:
Antique and modern jewellery
Watches
Gemstones
Silverware
Coins, medals and militaria
Works of art
Whisky and wine
Vintage toys
Stamps and ephemera
Cameras and record collections
Scientific equipment
Antique and modern furniture
Modern toys and Pokémon
Musical instruments
FREE LOCAL VALUATIONS - NEAR YOU
Watches, Jewellery, Silver & Antiques
Lichfield
The Hub at St Mary’s
Market Square, WS13 6LG
Qualified
All members of our jewellery
department are certified
gemmologists and diamond graders
Record-breaking
international sales
More than 3,800 bidders from
all over the world joined our
online auctions last month
Online services available
Virtual estimates, online auctions
and contactless collections.
Valuations, viewing and consignments
by appointment only
Jewellery, Watches & Silver
The Lichfield Auction Centre
Fradley Park (close to the A38)
Wood End Lane, WS13 8NF
Mondays
9am - 12pm
Meet valuer Louise
for help and advice
(except bank holidays)
Tuesdays
9.30am - 11am
Meet Ben for general
advice and auction
consignments
BY APPOINTMENT
Thursdays
9.30am - 4pm
With Heather,
gemmologist
& diamond grader
FREE General Valuations of your pictures, antiques and collectables
By appointment only - with our team on Thursdays from 9.30am - 4pm Call 01543 251081
01543 251081
www.richardwinterton.co.uk
office@richardwinterton.co.uk
The Lichfield Auction Centre, Wood End Lane, Fradley Park WS13 8NF
J'Aime Ad 190x280_June 2021.indd 5 24/09/2021 15:18