Solihull Living Nov - Dec 2023

C O N T E N T S 

A NOTE 

from the editor 

28 

CHRISTMAS RECIPES 

As the frosty chill creeps in 

and the days grow shorter, I 

can’t help but feel a tingling 

excitement growing in 

my tinsel-covered toes. 

Christmas is just around 

the corner, and I’m ready to 

unleash my inner elf! 

Ah, Christmas, that 

magical time when diets 

are forgotten (hello Quality 

Street for breakfast), and 

joy is served in abundance. 

Get ready for festive feasts, 

questionable dance moves, 

and more laughter than 

your cheeks can handle. 

04 

COMPETITIONS 

If you are hosting the 

hoards this year, we’ve got 

some great tips on getting 

the home up and together 

- but if it’s a major overhaul 

you need, you’d better 

get your skates on (pun 

intended!) 

XMAS AT HOME 

Editor Katie Thomson 

e katie@minervapublications.co.uk 

Assistant Editor Kate Norris 

Publisher Sally Thomson 

Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose 

Contributors 

Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave, 

Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence 

FOR ADVERTISING 

Account Manager Marion Cassidy 

e marion@minervapublications.co.uk 

t 01225 984502 

Cover courtesy of John Lewis 

44 

FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE 

09 

MINERVA PUBLICATIONS 

Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm, 

Hilperton BA14 6JB 

t 01225 984 550 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

Printed on sustainably sourced paper. 

Please recycle this copy or pass it along 

when you are finished for someone else 

to enjoy. 

Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be 

held liable for any loss occasioned by 

failure of an advertisement to appear, or 

any damage or inconvenience caused by 

errors, omissions and misprints. No part of 

this publication may be reproduced without 

prior permission from the publishers. 

The opinions expressed within are not 

necessarily those of the publishers. 

We’ve also got some 

delicious dishes if you’re 

catering - step away from 

the Christmas pudding 

and instead get making a 

festive pavlova! 

We will be back in January, 

so I’m left to thank you for 

your support of our little 

magazine this year - we 

are nothing without our 

readers. 

From myself and the whole 

Minerva team, we hope 

you have a wonderful 

Christmas and a peaceful 

and prosperous 2024. 

Katie 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

Time 

COMPETITION 

Find out more about entering our competitions online 

at www.minervamagazines/competitions. 

All the below close on 15th January 2024 with the exception of 

Copas which closes on 10th December 

CHRISTMAS HAMPER 

WORTH £500 

We have the ‘Decadent Christmas in a 

Box’ to give away to one lucky reader. 

Worth £500, this delicious hamper is 

filled with goodies, including a 6kg 

free range turkey, 4.5kg unsmoked 

ham, 1kg side of salmon, 1kg organic 

Cheddar, 1kg Cropwell Bishop Stilton, 

Christmas Pudding, Harrow & Hope 

Brut Reserve, Pigs in Blankets, a range 

of luxury sauces and oils and Copas 

Rosemary Gin. 

You can see the full Christmas range at 

www.copasturkeys.co.uk 

Keyword ‘Copas Turkeys’ 

WIN A CANDY SMART WINE 

COOLER WORTH £300 

We are offering one lucky reader the 

chance to win a smart Candy Wine 

Cooler worth over £300. This appliance 

helps preserve the natural taste and 

smell of your wine, giving you the 

experience of a professional wine cellar. 

Smart home appliance brand Candy 

has partnered with Vivino - when you 

connect to the hOn app, you can 

enjoy the ‘SNAP MY WINE’ function 

- allowing you to keep a record of the 

wines in your cooler, helping you pair 

wine with different kinds of food. 

Keyword ‘Candy Wine Cooler’ 

BATTERY-POWERED 

PRUNERS 

STIGA, a world-leading manufacturer 

and distributor of gardening machinery 

and equipment, announces its firstever 

battery-powered pruner, the SC 

100e. The SC 100e’s exceptional 

performance pruning capability adapts 

to the operator’s needs and to the 

task at hand. Its high-quality carbon 

steel blades are extremely sharp. With 

an option to select from three blade 

opening settings, this allows the cutting 

and trimming of branches up to 3.0 cm 

in diameter. We have three of these to 

give away! www.stiga.com/uk 

Keyword ‘Stiga Pruner’ 

SOS SUPERSTARS SET 

Give the gift of radiant skin this 

Christmas with the SOS Serum 

Skincare Superstars Beauty Elixir 

gift set. Inside there’s a gel-cream 

cleanser, hydrating daily moisturiser 

with SPF 30, a Night Cream that is 

ready to help you regain healthy skin 

that positively glows and nourishing 

and mattifying lip balm with broad 

spectrum SPF 30. We have 4 sets to 

give away, comprising SOS Cleanse, 

SOS H20 Day Cream SPF 30, SOS 

Night Cream, SOS Lip Balm SPF 30, 

andEssential Drops Fragrance for the 

Home: Pomegranate & Lychee 

Keyword ‘SOS Superstars’ 

A LUXURY LINGERIE SET 

Create a storm this winter... New 

bra and brief set, Bobette, is both 

luxurious and seductive. 

Featuring feminine lace and with a 

generous cleavage the elastic lace 

creates a three dimensional look in an 

exciting play of colours. 

Choose from the elegant Black or 

breath-taking Ruby Red versions. 

Available from www.ouhlala.co.uk 

Bra - £72, Shorty £33. Fits B-E cup 

We have two sets to give away. 

Keyword ‘Bobette’ 

A SMART HEATING KIT 

FROM WISER! 

Wiser, the award-winning smart 

heating system, is giving two lucky 

readers the chance to win a home 

heating kit worth £299.99, which 

includes a Room Thermostat, Heat 

Hub and two Radiator Thermostats. 

Easy to install, the Wiser heating 

system can lower your energy bills by 

up to 30% per year. Wiser is available 

in classic white or stylish anthracite to 

suit your home. To find out how Wiser 

can help you save on your energy bills, 

head to wiser.draytoncontrols.co.uk 

Keyword ‘Wiser Energy’ 

4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

Birmingham Rep in association with Elliott & Harper Productions and Catherine Schreiber present 

STEP THROUGH THE WARDROBE 

THIS CHRISTMAS… 

««««« 

“ A MAGICAL, MODERN 

TAKE ON NARNIA” 

London Theatre 

«««« 

“ A FANTASTICAL 

FAMILY TREAT” 

The Telegraph 

Based on the novel by C.S. Lewis 

Directed by Michael Fentiman 

TUE 14 NOV 2023 – 

SUN 28 JAN 2024 

birmingham-rep.co.uk

Rubis Tweezers 

Slanted w/Leather 

Tweezer Case, £47.99, 

amazon.co.uk 

Animal Park 

Wallet, £30, 

vendulalondon. 

com 

Particularly British Piccalilli, 

Caramelised Onion Marmalade, 

Cranberry, Port & Orange Sauce, 

Christmas Spiced Chutney, £6.80 each 

Cotton Kimono-Style 

Dressing Gown, 

£39.99, and Alie Leaf 

Gold Plated Earrings, 

£11.99, hauslife.co.uk 

Stihl PG 10 Secateurs, 

£13.25, and Gardening 

Gloves, £26.20, stihl.co.uk 

Elevate Wine Glass, Set of 2, 

£35, dartington.co.uk 

Soho Street Cocktail 

Pouch, £28.99, 

sohostreetcocktails.com 

Assorted Chocolate Almonds 

and Nougat Luxury Selection, 

£35, farhi.co.uk 

Kocktail Bottled Cocktails - 

classics and new spins! All 

bottles £27, kocktail.co.uk 

Gold Plated Huggie 

Earrings, £30, 

matchboxjewellery.com 

time to 

WIN 

One lucky winner will win everything 

on this page. You can enter by joining 

our competition club, a single entry or 

by post - all details can be found here: 

minervamagazines.co.uk 

Competition closes 10am, 01/12/23 

Entrants must be over 18y/o. Please note, 

if some products are not available, the 

brands reserve the right to send an 

equivalent value prize 

instead. T&Cs apply. 


BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN! 

THE PERFECT GIFT! 

MEMBERSHIPS FROM £30! 

TREAT YOUR LOVED ONES TO THE 

GIFT OF THE GARDENS THIS 

CHRISTMAS & ALL YEAR ROUND! 

JOIN US THIS CHRISTMAS 

FOR: CLASSES - GIFT VOUCHERS - PARTIES 

STRATFORD SCHOOL OF JEWELLERY 

WWW.STRATFORDSCHOOLOFJEWELLERY.CO.UK 

BIRMINGHAMBOTANICALGARDENS.ORG.UK 


Keratin-coated hot air styler with 

8 accessories for drying your 

hair and creating different styles 

with a single movement, £99.99, 

bellissimaitalia.co.uk 

Alya Phone Case Bag Leather 

Black, £69, lonestaroflondon.com 

A divine diffuser 

to fill your house 

with scent, 

Cedarwood 

and Bergamot 

Reed Diffuser, 

£49, voya.ie 

Hayman’s 

Sloe Gin, £29, 

haymansgin.com 

Comes in 

a matching 

cotton gift 

bag 

Cotton PJ Sets, from 

£43.99, hauslife.co.uk 

gifts for 

HER 

Hotel-quality dressing gowns - with 

embroidery options available Hotel 

Velour Robe, £70, tielleloveluxury.co.uk 

Beautiful, unique tea 

blends and accessories 

birdandblendtea.com 

Handleless Coffee 

Cup, £11.99, 

hauslife.co.uk 

More than just an air 

fryer, it’s a master in slow 

cooking, roasting, and 

more, thanks to precise 

temperature control. 

I-Master Air Fryer Series 

5, £229.99, haiereurope.com 

Taittinger Prelude 

Grand Crus 

Champagne, 

johnlewis.com 

gifts for 

HIM 

British Wool Honeycomb 

Chunky Jumper, £79.95, 

glencroftcountrywear. 

co.uk 

This offers 

interchangeable 

grinding discs, a 15° 

grinding angle for a 

filigree edge and a 20° 

grinding angle for more 

robust blades. £159, 

horl.com 

Ideal for 

cooks and 

outdoor 

enthusiasts 

Herbs with no soil in 

sight! Hydro-Herb 

Hydoponic Kit, £25, 

hydro-herb.co.uk 

Super soft bamboo socks with a 

donation to animal charities. Save 

the Tigers Bamboo Socks £9.95, 


Give an experience 

to remember with 

a day on the tracks 

in supercars. Triple 

Premium Driving 

Day, £129.99, 

redletterdays. 

co.uk

Woods Farm Christmas Trees 

Freshly cut and dug from our 300 acres of trees daily 

Potted, rooted or cut - from table top to 40ft 

BIG 

TREES 

DELIVERED 

& INSTALLED 

ALSO AVAILABLE 

Door wreaths and traditional holly wreaths, 

mistletoe and holly. 

Big decoration shop on site open. 

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 

9am-5pm November 

9am-7pm December 

Woods Farm, Bills Lane, Shirley, Solihull B90 2PP 

Tel: Mr G Gilbert 0121 733 2633 Email: info@woodsfarm.co.uk 

www.woodsfarm.co.uk

WWW.ORTHODONTICEXCELLENCE.CO.UK 

@ORTHODONTICEXCELLENCE_SOLIHULL 

ORTHODONTIC 

EXCELLENCE 

Don't wait any longer! 

Are you looking to transform your smile and boost your confidence? 

Look no further than Orthodontic Excellence, Solihull’s answer to the highest 

quality of orthodontic care. 

Orthodontic treatment isn't just about achieving a picture-perfect smile; it's about 

improving your overall oral health. Crooked teeth, misalignments, and bite issues 

can lead to various dental problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and even 

jaw pain. By straightening your teeth and aligning your bite, orthodontic treatment 

can enhance your oral health, making it easier to maintain a clean and healthy 

smile. 

When it comes to selecting the right orthodontic practice, you deserve nothing but 

the best. Orthodontic Excellence has earned its reputation as the leading provider 

of exceptional orthodontic care. Here's why we stand out from the crowd: 

Award Winning Case - Dr Virginia Rootkin-Gray 

Best Orthodontic Case with Clear Aligners 2023 

Expertise and Accolades: 

We take pride in being voted the Best Orthodontic Practice 2022 and receiving multiple other prestigious awards. Our team of highly 

skilled orthodontists combines their expertise with the latest advancements in orthodontic technology to deliver outstanding results. 

Comprehensive Treatment Options 

We understand that every smile is unique. That's why we offer a wide range of treatment options, including traditional braces, clear aligners and 

more. Our orthodontists will work closely with you to create a personalised treatment plan that suits your needs and goals. 

State-of-the-Art Facilities 

When you step into our modern and welcoming clinic, you'll feel right at home. Our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with the latest 

technology to ensure precise and efficient treatment. We strive to create a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all our patients. 

Patient-Centred Approach 

Your satisfaction and well-being are our top priorities. We believe in building meaningful relationships with our patients, taking the time to listen 

to your concerns and answer any questions you may have. Our friendly and compassionate team will guide you through every step of your 

orthodontic journey. 

Included in Orthodontic Treatment with Clear Aligners or Fixed Braces 

FREE Removable Retainers worth £150 

FREE Permanent Bonded Retainers worth £700 

FREE 3D Scans worth £300 

FREE Dental Monitoring worth £500 (Aligners only) 

Plus, to sweeten the deal, you get a full year of aftercare included 

and the opportunity to join our exclusive ACE retention program 

when you have orthodontic treatment with Orthodontic Excellence.

Family-friendly party game. 

Players earn points by getting their 

teammates to guess words and 

phrases using only single-syllable 

words. If you use any words 

with more than one syllable, the 

other team gets to bop you with a 

2-foot inflatable club. Poetry for 

Neanderthals, £19.99, Age 7+, 

Amazon, Smyths 

Magic away boredom 

on journeys with 180 

wizarding questions. It 

seems like it would be 

easy to name 3 Hogwarts 

Students—but can it be 

done under the pressure 

of 5 seconds? Harry 

Potter 5 Second Rule 

Mini, ages 8+, £9.99, 

Smyths 

Players must find their way to famous 

Pokémon characters in this simple 

strategy game of moving mazes 

Pokémon Labyrinth, Age 7+, £27.99, 

ravensburger.co.uk 

best 

GAMES 

The 100% offline party game 

where players compete 

to create the funniest text 

message thread. Players rotate 

drawing a sent card while the 

rest of the group competes 

for the funniest reply. Once 

everyone has played their 

chosen reply card, the judge 

decides which combo is the 

funniest. New Phone, Who 

Dis, 21.99, Age 17+, 

Amazon, Smyths, 

MenKind, Game 

Pass the parcel with 

a revolting twist - 

this hilarious family 

game gets everyone 

giggling! When the 

music stops, Farty 

Freddie will fart, 

giggle or burp - and 

if he lets out a trump 

so BIG he shakes 

and then you’re 

OUT! Farty Freddie, 

£19.99, Age 4+, 

Smyths 

Yoto Mini lets kids explore 

their imaginations as they 

explore the world. Kids 

from 3-12+ use physical 

cards to explore the 

best audiobooks, music, 

activities and educational 

audio on the move. 

£59.99, uk.yotoplay.com 

Elmer Applique 

Zip Sleepsuit, £23.50, 

jojomamanbebe.co.uk 

M.Y X 

Skate Complete 22 Inch 

Beginner Skateboard, 

£15.99, amazon.co.uk 

Pokémon Sleeping Charmander 

Pokémon 46cm, £39.99, smythstoys.com 

gifts for 

KIDS 

Organic Cotton Space 

Print Kids Pyjamas, £28, 

polarnopyret.co.uk 

Perfect for 

hard-to-buyfor 

teens 

The perfect STEM gift. Once 

assembled, children learn 

about music notations 

and can compose 

their own tunes by 

placing the pegs in 

different slots. £37.99, 

smarttoysandgames. 

co.uk 

Perfect activity packs for 

all ages, toucanbox.com 

Slimline Hollywood 

Mirror £84.99, 

vonhaus.com 


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*Ticket price includes a £1.50 booking fee. 

*Ticket price includes £1.50 booking fee.

A delectable assortment of the most 

delicious Italian goodies - this is a great 

option for those avoiding alcohol at 

Christmas, but there are lots of great 

options on the website. The Grand 

Teetotaller, £93, lavialla.com 

gifts for 

FOODIES 

Microplane Bowl Grater £20, 

microplane.com 

Give your health a boost with a gutfriendly 

hamper, Christmas Gut Health 

Hamper, £38, momo-kombucha.com 

Perfect smoked salmon 

from the experts. 

Whisky & Soy Glazed 

Salmon from £9.90, 

smokin-brothers.com 

KitchenAid Cast 

Iron Almond Cream 

Non-Stick 26cm 

Casserole Dish 

with Lid, £200, 

hartsofstur.com 

The Scottish 

Pantry £85, 

baxtersofscotland. 

com 

Salt and Pepper Mill, Set, 

£29.99, amazon.co.uk 

Chocolate Slab Gift Box, £54.99, 

meltchocolates.com 

Every bottle of Sea 

Change helps fund 

ocean conservation 

projects across the globe. 

Christmas Day 

Pack, £38.99, 

seachangewine.com 

Leather Jellyfish Cat Teaser Toy 

£29, cheshireandwain.com 

Woov is a cordless heating dog pillow 

with infrared technology and rechargeable 

battery. Heated Pet Cushion, 60x90, 

£139.95, uk.stoov.com 

Dog Mama Ceramic 

Travel Mug £28, 

aliceandwoody.co.uk 

Fur Bebe Pet 

Shampoo by OUAI, 

£28, amazon.co.uk 

gifts for 

PETS 

Save the oceans with this green 

marble effect sustainable dog 

bowl. Made from recycled fishing 

nets, it’s sure to take pride of place 

in any one of your rooms. £29.99, 

tanglemission.com 


Spread A Little Joy 

This Christmas 

Shop our festive range and help make 

a mission possible this Christmas 

1 1 1 1 

midlandsairambulance.com/shop 

Scan here to shop 

the full range

Yoto Mini lets kids explore 

their imaginations as they 

explore the world. Kids 

from 3-12+ use physical 

cards to explore the 

best audiobooks, music, 

activities and educational 

audio on the move. £59.99, 

uk.yotoplay.com 

The perfect STEM gift. Once 

assembled, children learn about 

music notations and can compose 

their own tunes by placing the 

pegs in different slots. £37.99, 

smarttoysandgames.co.uk 

Perfect for 

hard-to-buyfor 

teens 

gifts for 

KIDS 

Pokémon Sleeping Charmander 

Pokémon 46cm, £39.99, 

smythstoys.com 

Elmer Applique Zip 

Sleepsuit, £23.50, 

jojomamanbebe.co.uk 

Slimline Hollywood Mirror 

£84.99, vonhaus.com 

M.Y X Skate Complete 22 Inch 

Beginner Skateboard, £15.99, 

amazon.co.uk 

Perfect activity 

packs for all ages, 

toucanbox.com 

The Scottish 

Pantry £85, 

baxtersofscotland. 

com 

KitchenAid 

Cast Iron 26cm 

Casserole Dish 

with Lid, £200, 

hartsofstur.com 

Perfect smoked 

salmon from the 

experts. Whisky 

& Soy Glazed 

Salmon from 

£9.90, smokinbrothers.com 

Give your health a 

boost with a gutfriendly 

hamper, 

Christmas Gut 

Health Hamper, £38, 

momo-kombucha. 

com 

Salt and Pepper 

Mill, Set, £29.99, 

amazon.co.uk 

gifts for 

FOODIES 

A delectable assortment of the most 

delicious Italian goodies - this is a great 

option for those avoiding alcohol at 

Christmas, but there are lots of great 

options on the website. The Grand 

Teetotaller, £93, lavialla.com 

Chocolate Slab Gift Box, 

£54.99, meltchocolates.com

C E L E B R A T E C H R I S T M A S 

I N M E L L S Q U A R E 

Experience Solihull’s most 

exciting food and drink 

destinations – Green’s, Vita and 

Taste Collective. 

Located in Mell Square, Green’s 

offers innovative cocktails 

alongside classics, cheese and 

charcuterie boards and a great 

selection of gin, wine and beer 

with a stunning garden-themed 

backdrop. There's also live music 

each and every Wednesday. 

Whilst Vita serves speciality coffee 

and tea, festive hot chocolate, 

healthy breakfast and brunch 

options, delicious cakes and 

pastries from local bakers as well 

as sparkling wine in a stylish 

setting. 

A covered, heated outdoor 

pergola style seating area is home 

to pop-up street food traders 

from all types of cuisine, from 

handmade burgers and authentic 

pizzas to vegan delights. 

Taste Collective plays host to 

some of the Midlands’ top 

Mell Square - Solihull - B91 3AY 

independent eateries in addition 

to creating a fun and relaxed 

environment with its outdoor 

bar and unique design, which is 

weather-proofed for all 

conditions. Plus, every Thursday, 

put your knowledge to the test 

with themed Quiz Nights. And 

on Wednesday's we play Music 

Bingo! 

Created to appeal to a wide 

range of ages and tastes, 

Green’s, Vita and Taste Collective 

offer the perfect setting to eat, 

drink and socialise with friends 

and family in Solihull this 

Christmas. 

Follow us for more details 

greens_solihull 

vita_solihull 

tastecollective_solihull

Childcare 

Vouchers 

Accepted 

"Best Children's Sports Camp 

Provider 2023 - West Midlands" 

Serious About SPORT 

Both with a passion for high quality sports performance 

and coaching children, Dan & Sam run Super Sports. 

Bringing together inspirational coaches and first class 

facilities, Super Sports provides an unforgettable growth 

opportunity for players of all abilities across the Midlands. 

Holiday Camps | Sports Parties | Private Coaching 

" The best sports camp around! My kids love it. Excellent 

coaches who really care about improving the kids' skills. 

We can't wait for the next one! " Parent, 2023 

Football | Rugby | Hockey | Gymnastics | Tennis | Cricket | Netball 

All IN ONE LOCATION - CHILDREN CHOOSE THEIR SPORTS! 

UPCOMING CAMPS! 

October Half Term 

Christmas Camp 

30th Oct - 3rd Nov 

18th - 20th Dec 

Solihull School 

Easter 2024 

Week 1 

25th - 29th 

Week 2 

Mar 1st - 5th Apr 

February Half Term 

12th - 16th Feb 

May Half Term 

27th - 31st May 

Summer Holidays 2024 

Week 1 Week 2 

Week 3 

22nd - 26th Jul 

29th 09:00 - 2nd - 16:00 

Aug 5th - 9th Aug 

Drop Week off from 4 8am - Pick Week up till 5 5pm 

12th - 16th Aug 

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WWW.TEAMSUPERSPORTS.CO.UK

A STOPOVER 

to remember 

W Dubai - Mina Seyahi 

With over two thirds of the world’s population living within an eight-hour flight 

of Dubai, it’s little wonder that it’s such a hub for travel. If your next long haul 

trip sees you transiting through, Katie Thomson has some suggestions about 

how to turn your stopover into a trip to remember. 

I’ve usually been in the camp of 

‘direct flights only, just get me on 

holiday as quickly as possible’ 

but a stopover is both financially 

economical and sometimes the only 

option for certain destinations. 

But, instead of whiling away four 

hours between flights with endless 

phone scrolling or duty-free 

shopping, I decided on my most 

recent trip to the Maldives to make 

more of the journey, with three 

night stopover in Dubai. And you 

know what? I’m now a fully paid-up 

stopover super-fan, and I want to 

tell you what not to miss. 

ACTIVITIES 

Dubai really is the city of activities 

- whether you are a thrill-seeker, a 

history buff or a die-hard shopper, 

you’ll be well-catered for. 

As this was a short stopover, 

we wanted to explore Dubai in a 

different way, so opted to see more 

of the city by water on a HERO 

Dubai Sunset Boat Tour. 

These two-person boats can reach 

speeds of up to 50kph and are a fun 

alternative to sightseeing Dubai’s 

beautiful skylines. You’ll stop at 

famous landmarks like Burj Al Arab, 

Ain Dubai, the Palm islands and 

many more, whilst getting to test 

your handling skills and take in 

some panoramic vistas. 

You’re taken out by an experienced 

guide, who’ll point out the 

architectural gems, alongside the 

palatial holiday homes of Emirati 

royalty. 

Dubai is sometimes considered 

to be a bit of a culture-vacuum, 

but if you’re interested in learning 

more about the Bedouin lifestyle, a 

Platinum Heritage Tour is the perfect 

way to see Dubai’s protected 

deserts and understand more about 

the history of the region. 

Eco-friendly tours take in the sites of 

Dubai’s deserts in luxury - there are 

lots of options, including camping 

out overnight, but we decided on 

a ride in a 1950s open-top Land 

Rover. The tour started by decking 

us out for the desert with our own 

headscarfs and cooler water bottles, 

before a drive through the rolling 

sand dunes. The visit included 

lots of information about the local 

flora and fauna, a soaring falconry 

display and culminated with a feast 

in a Bedouin camp, complete with 

a drum show and astronomy talk. 

It was such a wonderful way to get 

an insight into a completely different 

side of Dubai, and one I’d implore 

anyone to make time for. 

STAY 

A fantastic base for exploration is 

the beautiful W Dubai - Mina Seyahi 

- part of the Westin complex, guests 

can enjoy all the amenities of three 

hotels in one location. 

From a winding child-friendly pool 

and on-site waterpark, to an adult’s 

only pool, plus a fantastic swim up 

bar, the resort caters for all travelling 


From top to bottom: Expansive views from 

Attiko Restaurant; Rooms at the W Dubai 

Mina Seyahi; Platinum Heritage Desert 

Tours; HERO Boat Tours 

parties - we saw families, hen parties, 

couples and friends all making the 

most of the exceptional facilities. 

The hotel also has its own expansive 

section of beach - meaning you can 

dip in the warm waters of the Dubai 

Marina just steps from the pool. 

The W Dubai - Mina Seyahi is 

architecturally beautiful, modelled 

on a King Cobra with a hood and 

reaching skyward. The design concept 

is contemporary and luxurious, but 

with nods to desert history and 

folklore - including art installations 

featuring stories of Arabian Nights and 

sculptural, modern interpretations of 

Bedouin tents and carpets. 

Right by the pool, you can enjoy 

delicious food from Bussola - a sea 

view Italian restaurant with pizzeria on 

top deck, romantic fine dining below, 

plus terrace bar. 

Don’t miss the chance to visit the 

hotels spectacular Attiko restaurant 

- as well as enjoying expansive, 

glittering views of Dubai’s buzzing 

marina, it serves world-class 

Japanese food. 

PLAN YOUR 

VISIT 

I hope my experiences have helped 

convince you to consider Dubai for a 

longer stopover next time you travel. 

Breaking up a long haul journey helps 

to get you into the holiday mode - 

allowing you a more gentle adjustment 

into another time zone, as well as an 

opportunity to explore. 

TO BOOK: 

HERO Sunset Boat Tour, £218, 

per boat (for up to 2 people) 

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Heritage Safari, from £155 per person, 

platinum-heritage.com 

Rooms at the W Dubai - Mina Seyahi 

start from £344 

marriott.com 


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Christmas as it Should Be 

Everyone at Hatton Country World is determined to make 

this the most magical Christmas yet. And we’ve got 

everything you need to do just that... 

Whether it’s soaking up the atmosphere at NEW Christmas 

Light Trail. Choosing the perfect tree from our Garden 

Centre, shopping for those special gifts at our beautiful 

Shopping Village, bringing Christmas to life for your little 

ones at the Enchanted Christmas Kingdom, or celebrating 

with family, friends & colleagues with a festive fine dining 

experience at the Hatton Arms or an Escape Room 

adventure, Hatton does Christmas as it Should Be 

NEW Christmas Light Trail 

Step into a mesmerising wonderland of illuminated 

splendour at the Hatton Light Trail. With lights displays that 

will captivate your imagination with an interactive and 

immersive experience, the Hatton Light Trail will bring the 

magic of the Festive season alive for the young and old alike. 

Garden Centre & Christmas Shop 

British Garden Centres Christmas Shop returns to Hatton 

earlier this year, and they’ve completely transformed the 

garden centre experience. 

From great gift ideas to fantastic Christmas decorations, trees 

and lights. Entertain in style with the perfect table setting and 

treat yourself to some delicious seasonal treats. 

Whatever you’re doing this Christmas, do it with a bit of help 

from British Garden Centres here at Hatton. 

Shopping Village & Christmas Markets 

Of course there is so much more to explore in our charming 

Shopping Village. Converted over 30 years ago out of some 

Victorian farm buildings, this is very much ‘Christmas 

Shopping as it Should Be’. 

A myriad of independent shops with an array of choice; 

exquisite jewellery hand crafted on site; homeware; toys; 

ladies fashion: bike shop; the list goes on... And a choice of 

delicious cafés where you can stop and refuel. 

Treat yourself and get ready for the festive season at the hair 

and beauty salons. Or celebrate with friends with a Gin 

School Experience. 

HATTONWORLD.COM

If that’s not enough, there is even more to choose 

from at the weekends. Every weekend from the 4 th 

November there is a Christmas Market in Market 

Square- where the festive atmosphere really takes off. 

Enchanted Christmas Kingdom 

Next to Hatton Shopping Village lies the Enchanted 

Christmas Kingdom within Hatton Adventure World, 

open selected dates in November & December. 

Meet Father Christmas in his Woodland Grotto with more 

NEW magical experiences to explore. 

Alongside a host of festive activities, make your own 

reindeer food for Rudolph, the Owl and the Orient King 

Falconry Display, Yuletide with the Animals, 

Gingerbread Decorating, Reindeer Quest, Festive 

Magic and Puppet Shows A magical day of festive 

fun. 

Christmas Celebrations at the Hatton Arms 

Stephanie and her team at the award winning 

Hatton Arms love helping you celebrate Christmas 

and they’re pulling out all the stops to make it the 

best Christmas yet. 

With Christmas Parties from only £27.95, bring 

Christmas cheer to your friends, family & 

colleagues. 

Our menus are always carefully crafted with seasonal 

local produce and our talented chefs have created 

special menus not only for our parties but for Christmas 

Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day. 

However you plan to celebrate this year, we are here for 

you. Just give us a ring on 01926 492427 or book online 

at hattonarms.com 

Escape Room Adventure 

Finding the clues, solving the puzzles 

within an hour and escaping from a world 

of pirates and gangsters... if you can! 

That’s what Hatton Escape Rooms are 

about. 

It’s a thoroughly immersive and 

captivating adventure, which makes for a 

brilliant Christmas Party or great gift 

experience. Gift vouchers are available 

online. Will you Escape? 

For more information on all of the above visit our website. 

Telephone: 

telephone: 01926 01926 843411 843411 

www.hattonworld.com 

www.hattonworld.com 

HATTON COUNTRY WORLD, HATTON, WARWICK, CV35 8XA 

HATTON COUNTRY WORLD, HATTON, WARWICK, CV35 8XA 

CHRISTMAS AS IT SHOULD BE

The Value of 

Independent Early 

Years Education 

By Sarah Hollingsworth, Head of Gresham’s Pre-Prep School and 

IAPS’ recently-appointed Pre-Prep and Early Years Subject Adviser 

Albert Einstein famously said: “Logic will 

get you from A-B. Imagination will take 

you everywhere.” More recently, worldrenowned 

education expert and adviser 

Dr Ger Graus noted: “Children can only 

aspire to what they know exists.” 

These two much-quoted comments 

have a common theme and highlight the 

power of what children are exposed to 

during their early years and the impact 

this has on their future. 

Early years educators like myself have 

been entrusted with the important task 

of empowering those in our care with 

opportunities to develop essential life 

skills such as resilience, independence, 

kindness and imagination. But early 

years education has to start with what 

parents expose their children to at 

home, not least lots of love, exposure 

to reading, role modelling, but also 

choosing the best setting to entrust one 

of the most important people in their 

lives to. 

This is where it all begins. The period 

from birth to age eight is critical for 

cognitive, social, emotional and physical 

development. Optimal brain development 

requires a stimulating environment, 

nourishing food, top-quality care-givers 

and social interaction. 

Unsurprisingly, this is a hot topic for every 

government, not to mention the Princess 

of Wales, who has spoken recently about 

the importance of early years education. 

A massive part of that is having the best 

practitioners delivering this education 

and having the right opportunities and 

environments for them to learn in. 

I have been fortunate to work across 

the state-maintained and independent 

sectors and benefited from some of 

the very best training and guidance 

during my professional career, including 

incredible continuous professional 

development and leadership training. I 

am also the daughter of an early years 

teacher and, growing up, I witnessed 

how hard my mother worked and how 

much energy she gave to the children in 

her care. 

For the last seven years, I have been 

in a unique position as Headmistress 

of Gresham’s Nursery and Pre-Prep, a 

co-educational day and boarding school 

on the North Norfolk coast. The school 

has three parts: Nursery and Pre-Prep, 

The Prep School and The Senior School, 

each based on a different campus, 

allowing the children to have the security 

of friendships growing with them as 

they move through the school at crucial 

transition stages. 

Gresham’s believes that each child 

is different and has a gift. Our very 

youngest children, aged just two, are 

exposed to many opportunities, with 

access to all the school’s facilities as well 

as acres of woodland, swimming pool, 

astro turfs, tennis courts and sports hall. 

They experience opportunities which 

open their eyes to future jobs, interests 

and passions and also enjoy lessons in 

ballet and music, languages, computing, 

cooking, and outdoor learning half days. 

Research demonstrates high-quality 

opportunities help children to succeed. 

The independent sector is fortunate to 

have small class sizes and all the facilities 

and resources to offer this. 

There is no one more precious than 

our children. They are the future – and 

the future for a hopeful world. So, our 

task is simple. We work to create an 

environment where happy, relaxed, calm, 

courteous and curious children can 

flourish and be their best. 


#ALSLetsMe 

www.arnoldlodge.com 

4-18 yrs Co-educational Independent Day School 

ALS lets ME 

ACHIEVE 

What will your child be? 

Lovingly crafted by Interactive Schools 

Book your personal tour at www.arnoldlodge.com 

01926 778050 

admissions@arnoldlodge.com 

15-17 Kenilworth Rd, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 5TW

CHANGING 

SCHOOL FOR 

SIXTH FORM 

Whether you want to change 

from a single sex school to co-ed 

or from day to boarding, private 

to state, A levels to International 

Baccalaureate – or vice versa 

– there are plenty of reasons to 

move schools post-GCSEs. 

HOW TO CHANGE SCHOOLS 

FOR SIXTH FORM 

Families need to know what schools 

and colleges are in the area and 

how far your teen will be willing to 

travel. We’d advise getting the ball 

rolling with research towards the 

end of their year 10 in time for sixth 

form open days and applications 

which generally take place the 

following autumn, early in the new 

academic year. 

Discussions about post-GCSE 

options will already be underway at 

your child’s current school by then 

and looking at other sixth forms 

will widen your options. Maybe 

the broader based curriculum of 

the IB would suit them better than 

specialising at A level? Maybe they 

want to pursue a more practical, 

less exam based, route? Or perhaps 

your child simply feels ready for a 

fresh start and new faces. 

CHOOSING A NEW 

SIXTH FORM 

The decision needs to be a joint 

effort between parents and children, 

based as much on personal 

preference as objective research. 

Your child may have formed 

opinions about other schools via 

friends or social media but however 

popular a particular sixth form may 

be, it’s no good if it doesn’t offer the 

subjects they want to study. 

Guide your child to consider the 

areas of study they genuinely enjoy 

or find interesting. The demands 

of some A levels, such as maths, 

are a big jump from GCSE and 

most academically selective sixth 

forms will set higher GCSE grade 

requirements for these. 

It may seem too early when your 

child hasn’t even finished their 

GCSE courses to start talking about 

university subjects and destinations, 

but if they are going to change 

school for sixth form it’s important 

to at least start thinking about 

the ultimate goal. For instance, if 

Oxbridge or medical school is the 

aim then A level choices need to be 

made accordingly and a potential 

school’s record of Oxbridge and 

medical school places taken into 

account. 

If university isn’t part of the plan 

then you’ll need to ask the school 

or college about provision for pupils 

who are interested in alternative 

post-18 options such as degree 

apprenticeships. 

MOVING FROM STATE 

SCHOOL TO PRIVATE 

If you think your child would 

benefit from taking A levels at an 

independent school but are worried 

about affording the fees, it could be 

worth checking whether you can 

apply for a bursary. Some schools 

even offer bursaries specifically for 

pupils joining the sixth form from 

the local state sector. Read the 

following for more information about 

scholarships and bursaries. 

SIXTH FORM ENTRY 

REQUIREMENTS 

These differ considerably but five 

or six GCSEs including English and 

maths at grade 6 or above, with 

grade 7 or higher in subjects to be 

studied at A level (can be 8 or 9 for 

maths/further maths), is the minimum 

for most selective schools. Many 

schools in both the state and private 

sector set the sixth form entry bar 

much higher and in addition to a full 

set of GCSEs at grades 9-7, also 

expect candidates to sit papers in 

their prospective A level subjects. 

Schools will usually interview 

prospective sixth formers too. 

So what are the essentials to 

look out for? 

Check how many new pupils join for 

the sixth form - if the number is very 

low it may be harder for your child 

to integrate 

Look at trends in exam results 

rather than just the most recent 

ones (particularly important given 

the disruption Covid has caused in 

recent years’ GCSEs and A levels) 

Some schools are single sex up to 

GCSEs with a co-ed sixth form – 

ask what the ratio of boys to girls 

is and try to find out whether the 

culture of the school is suitable for 

your son or daughter 

What are the opportunities for new 

pupils for positions of responsibility 

(prefects etc)? 

What expertise is there to support 

Oxbridge and international university 

applications, or alternative routes 

such as degree apprenticeships? 

A fresh start can be a great 

motivator, but it isn’t a panacea. If 

your child is unhappy at their current 

school find out why – changing 

schools may not be the answer 

goodschoolsguide.co.uk 


Cooking for 

CHRISTMAS 

We have some delicious recipes from the appliance 

pros at Cuisinart to make festive hosting easier 

Shredded Brussels & Pancetta 

INGREDIENTS 

80g pancetta, cubed 

125g sprouts 

Lemon Dijon 

Vinaigrette 

1 clove garlic, slightly 

crushed 

1 lemon, juiced 

3 tbsp dijon mustard 

40ml apple cider 

vinegar 

120ml olive oil 

2 tsp honey 

Sea salt & pepper 

METHOD 

Add the pancetta to a medium / 

hot frying pan and cook until the fat 

renders and the pancetta is crispy. 

Place the pancetta on paper towel 

before setting to one side. 

Trim and peel the sprouts. In the Easy 

Prep Pro, set up the fine slicing disc in 

the large work bowl and process the 

sprouts on ‘HIGH’. 

Set up the small work bowl with the 

small chopping/mixing blade. 

Add all the vinaigrette ingredients to 

the small work bowl. Secure the lid 

and process on ‘HIGH’ until a thick 

emulsion forms. Season with sea salt 

and black pepper. Run the machine 

using the ‘PULSE’ button until 

thoroughly mixed. Pour the vinaigrette 

into a suitable jug for serving. 

Place the sprouts into a serving dish 

and drizzle over a generous serving 

of the vinaigrette. Combine well and 

scatter over the crispy pancetta. 

Tip: Any remaining vinaigrette can be 

stored in an airtight container in the 

fridge for up to 5 days. 


Spiced Victoria Sponge 

METHOD 

Preheat the oven to 180ºC / Fan 160ºC / 

Gas Mark 42. 

Grease a fluted bundt cake tin, alternatively 

you can use two greased and lined 20 cm 

springform cake tins. This will produce a 

more traditional cake. 

Set up the large work bowl of the Expert 

Prep Pro with the large chopping/mixing 

blade. Place the butter and sugar in the 

bowl and process on high until creamy. 

Add the eggs through the feed tube one by 

one, processing between each addition. Add 

the vanilla essence, cinnamon and nutmeg. 

Process to combine. 

INGREDIENTS 

250g butter, room temperature 

250g caster sugar 

4 medium eggs 

1 tsp vanilla essence 

1 tsp ground cinnamon 

1 tsp grated nutmeg 

175g self raising flour 

75g ground almonds 

1tsp baking powder 

Clementine Cream (not shown) 

300 ml double cream 

1 tbsp sifted icing sugar, plus some for 

dusting the cake 

1 large Clementine, zested and 1 tbsp juice 

To Serve 

Seasonal berries 

Chopped pistachios 

Add the flour, ground almonds and baking 

powder. Process lightly. 

Pour the cake mixture into the cake 

tin(s) and smooth the batter until 

level. 

Bake in the oven for 30 to 

35 minutes until the cake 

is golden brown on top 

and a skewer comes out 

clean. 

Allow to rest for a 

moment in the tin(s) 

before turning out 

onto a wire rack 

and leave to cool 

completely. Decorate 

the cake with berries, 

chopped pistachios 

and lightly dust with 

icing sugar. 

Make the Clementine 

cream by softly whipping 

the cream with the icing 

sugar, Clementine zest and 

juice using the whisk attachment 

of the hand blender. Serve with the 

clementine cream. If using traditional 

springform tins the clementine cream can be 

used between the sponges. 


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Winter Pavlova 

METHOD 

Preheat the oven to 140ºC/120ºC 

fan/gas 1.Line a baking tray with 

greaseproof paper. Mark out 

a 23cm circle on the backing 

paper to help size your pavlova. 

Attach the whisk attachment to 

the Cuisinart Hand Blender and 

whisk the egg whites in a clean, 

dry bowl on a medium setting 

until frothy. Add the cream of 

tartar and the white wine vinegar. 

Continue to whisk on a higher 

setting until the egg whites start 

to form stiff peaks. 

Gradually beat in the sugar, 

whisking it back to stiff peaks 

after each addition. When it 

is glossy and smooth spoon 

the meringue mixture onto the 

baking paper, making a shallow 

dip in the centre with the back of 

the spoon. 

Bake in the oven for 70 minutes, 

until the meringue looks slightly 

gooey in the middle and crisp on 

the outside. Turn the oven off, 

leaving the door open slightly 

and allow the meringue to cool 

completely. 

Whip the cream to soft peaks 

using the whisk attachment of 

the Cuisinart Hand Blender on a 

high setting. Whisk in the icing 

sugar and vanilla essence being 

careful not to over whisk the 

cream. 

Spoon the cream onto the 

cooled meringue and decorate 

with the clementines. 

Sift over a dusting of icing sugar 

before serving. 

INGREDIENTS 

4 egg whites 

1 tsp cream of tartar 

1 tsp white wine vinegar 

225g caster sugar 

250ml whipping cream 

1 tbsp sifted icing sugar 

1 tsp vanilla essence 

4 - 6 peeled clementines 

Icing sugar for dusting 


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depart Kidderminster on selected dates from 25 November 

Get tickets from SVR.CO.UK or call 01562 757 900 


FESTIVE 

Not a fan of traditional Christmas pudding or 

Fancies 

feel like shaking it up this year? Here are some 

amazing desserts that are every bit as festive... 

STICKY DATE PUDDINGS 

Preparation time: 25 minutes 

Cooking time: 35 minutes 

Serves: 8 

INGREDIENTS 

175g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra 

for greasing 

80g light brown muscovado sugar 

6 Waitrose Medjool Dates, pitted and 

finely chopped 

3 British Blacktail Free Range Medium 

Eggs 

2 tbsp treacle 

175g self-raising flour 

1 tsp baking powder 

1 heaped tsp mixed spice 

½ tsp fine sea salt 

2 tbsp whole milk 

STICKY DATE SAUCE 

40g unsalted butter 

3 Waitrose Medjool Dates, pitted and 

finely chopped 

125g light brown muscovado sugar 

250ml double cream, plus extra to serve 

METHOD 

For the puddings, preheat the oven 

to 180ºC, gas mark 4. Lightly grease 

8 mini pudding moulds (each about 

175ml in volume), put a small circle 

of baking parchment in the base of 

each, then sit them in a large, deep-sided 

roasting tin. 

Boil the kettle. In a large bowl, using 

electric beaters, cream the butter, sugar 

and dates for 2-3 minutes until light 

and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and then the 

treacle. Lightly beat in the flour, baking 

powder, mixed spice and salt, then 

loosen the mixture with the milk. Divide 

the mixture evenly between the moulds; 

it should fill them about halfway. 

Pour a kettle of just-boiled water into 

the roasting tin so the water sits about 

halfway up the outside of the moulds. 

Cover the top 

of the 

tin with 3 layers of large pleated sheets 

of tin foil, ensuring the foil is tightly 

sealed around the edges (you don’t want 

steam to escape as the puddings won’t 

rise). Bake for 30 minutes until risen and 

springy. 

To make the sauce, put the butter, dates 

and sugar in a saucepan and set over 

a low heat. Add a pinch of salt and 

stir occasionally until the sugar has 

dissolved. Stir in the double cream until 

combined; keep warm. 

Remove the foil and carefully release the 

side of the puddings from the moulds 

using a small, sharp knife. Invert onto 

plates and pour over the sticky date 

sauce, adding a little extra whipped 

cream, if liked. 

All recipes and images courtesy of 

Waitrose. You can find thousands more 

recipes at www.waitrose.com/recipes 


Book tickets now 

23-26 November 2023 

NEC Birmingham 

Entertainment | Tasting 

Shopping | Inspiration 

BOOK NOW 

Enjoy a great day out, book your tickets at bbcgoodfoodshow.com 

Not all celebrities appear on all days. Details correct at time of print. The BBC logo is a trademark of the BBC. © BBC. 

The Good Food trademark is used under licence from Immediate Media Company London Limited. Organised and presented by Immediate Live. Immediate Live is 

the trading name of Upper Street Events Ltd and River Street Events Ltd. These businesses are owned by Immediate Media Company Limited. 

The Harvester 

An outstanding & relaxed countryside pub 

A PLEASING-EVEN-THE-PICKY-ONES 

CHRISTMAS 

•Traditional Turkey with all the trimmings 

•Pork & Cranberry Pâté 

• Bourbon-glazed short rib of beef 

•Banoffee Profiteroles & Baileys sundae 

• Kids menu • Book Today! 

Church Road, Long Itchington, 

Southam CV47 9PE 

Tel: 01926 812698 l @liharvester 

www.theharvesterinn.co.uk 


VEGAN CHOCOLATE & 

COCONUT CARAMEL POTS 

Preparation time: 30 minutes + chilling 


Makes: 4 

INGREDIENTS 

200ml pouch coconut milk 

2 pitted medjool dates, roughly chopped 

1 tsp vanilla bean paste 

100g vegan dark chocolate (such as Raw 

Halo Dark 85%), finely chopped 

250ml pack Oatly Whippable Creamy Oat 

1 tbsp maple syrup 

Raw vegan cacao powder, for dusting 

METHOD 

Put the coconut milk, dates and vanilla 

in a blender and whizz until smooth. Tip 

into a small pan and bring to the boil. 

Simmer vigorously, stirring regularly for 

10 minutes until thick and reduced by 

half. Divide between 4 small glasses and 

set aside to cool, then cover and chill for 

at least 1 hour. 

When the coconut caramel has chilled, 

put the chocolate in a medium mixing 

bowl. In a small pan, heat 100ml 

whippable creamy oat and the maple 

syrup to just before boiling. Take off the 

heat and pour over the chocolate in the 

bowl. Leave to melt for 1 minute, then stir 

until smooth. 

Put the remaining 150ml whippable 

creamy oat in another mixing bowl and 

use electric beaters to whisk to soft 

peaks. Set aside 2 tbsp to garnish, then 

fold the rest into the melted chocolate. 

Spoon into the glasses on top of the 

coconut caramel. Serve with a dollop 

of the whipped creamy oat and a 

dusting of cacao. These are best served 

immediately, but can be covered and 

chilled for up to 30 minutes. 

COOK’S TIP 

Make a double batch of the 

caramel, then cover and store 

in the fridge for up to 3 days. 

It’s particularly delicious 

spooned over baked apples. 


CHOCOLATE & 

HAZELNUT 

SNOWFLAKE 

Preparation 

time: 25 

minutes + 

chilling 

Cooking time: 35 

minutes 

Serves: 8 

INGREDIENTS 

2 x 320g packs Jus-Rol Puff Pastry 

Sheet 

100g hazelnut chocolate spread 

50g chopped roasted hazelnuts 

1 British Blacktail Free Range Medium 

Egg, lightly beaten 

Icing sugar, for dusting 

METHOD 

Unroll both of the pastry sheets and 

cut a 20-22cm circle from each (save 

the offcuts to make tarts, cheese twists 

or palmiers). Put one pastry circle on a 

sheet of baking parchment and cover 

one side evenly with hazelnut chocolate 

spread. Sprinkle over ½ the hazelnuts, 

leaving a 1cm border around the edge. 

Put the second pastry circle on top, 

pressing 

lightly around 

the border to seal. 

Put the lid of a small jar (about 

4-5cm in diameter) in the centre of 

the pastry (so you don’t cut through it), 

then use a sharp knife to cut the pastry 

into quarters (excluding the central 

circle). Cut down the centre of each 

quarter and then repeat. You should have 

16 equal strips of pastry attached to the 

centre. 

Take 2 strips next to each other and twist 

them away from each other 3 times. 

Press the ends together in a point, to 

seal. Repeat all the way around the 

circle – you should now have 8 snowflake 

‘arms’. Slide the snowflake, on its 

parchment, 

onto a baking 

sheet; chill for 

30 minutes. 4 

Preheat the oven 

to 200ºC, gas 

mark 6. 

Lightly brush the 

egg all over the top of 

the snowflake. Bake for 30-35 

minutes until golden and puffed up. Allow 

to cool, then dust with icing sugar and 

sprinkle over the remaining hazelnuts to 

serve. 

COOK’S TIP 

If at any point while making the 

snowflake the pastry becomes 

soft or difficult to work with, put 

it in the fridge for 15 minutes to 

cool and firm up. 


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p e r f e c t 

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CHOCOLATE 

GINGER 

TRUFFLES 

Preparation time: 25 minutes + 

overnight chilling 


Makes: about 20 

INGREDIENTS 

180g bar Belgian dark chocolate 

(54% cocoa) 

180ml double cream 

30g unsalted butter 

2 ½ tbsp The King’s Ginger 

liqueur 

30g crystallised ginger, very finely 

chopped (optional) 

2-3 tbsp cocoa powder 

Cooks’ Ingredients Gold Lustre 

Spray, to decorate 

METHOD 

Chop the chocolate as finely as 

you can and put in a large bowl. 

Put 130ml cream and the butter 

in a saucepan and heat until the 

butter has melted and the mixture 

is at steaming point. Pour over the 

chocolate and leave for 2 minutes. 

Stir to combine the chocolate and 

cream until all the chocolate is 

melted. Stir in the remaining 50ml 

cream, a pinch of fine salt and the 

liqueur. Pour into a large, shallow 

container and, if using, scatter the 

crystallised ginger on top. Cover 

and chill for at least 6 hours, but 

ideally overnight. 

Sift the cocoa powder onto a 

plate. Use a tablespoon to scoop 

balls of the truffle mixture and 

roll them in your hands to shape 

them. Roll in the cocoa powder, 

then arrange on a plate. Continue 

rolling until all the mixture has 

been used (pop it in the fridge if 

it softens too much), then spray 

with the gold lustre and chill for 

at least 30 minutes until ready to 

serve. These will keep in the fridge 

for up to 3 days. 

COOK’S TIP 

If you’re having a gathering, 

these chocolate truffles look 

pretty served individually in mini 

cupcake cases. 


WINTER JOBS 

in the garden 

As the cold winds of winter 

sweep across the country, many 

gardeners might be tempted to 

retreat indoors, believing that the 

gardening season has come to 

a halt. However, winter can be a 

crucial time for tending to your 

garden and preparing it for the 

upcoming spring. In fact, several 

essential gardening tasks can 

help your garden thrive during the 

colder months. Here are some 

important tasks to consider: 

PRUNING: 

Winter is an excellent time for 

pruning deciduous trees, shrubs, 

and fruit trees. With the leaves gone, 

it’s easier to see the plant’s structure 

and identify dead or damaged 

branches. Pruning during this 

season encourages healthy growth 

in the spring and reduces the risk 

of disease. Roses also benefit from 

winter pruning. 

WINTER MULCHING: 

Adding a layer of mulch to your 

garden beds can help protect the 

soil and plant roots from freezing 

temperatures. Mulch also helps 

to retain moisture and suppress 

weeds, ensuring your garden 

remains in good condition. 

PROTECTING 

VULNERABLE 

PLANTS: 

Tender plants, such as certain 

perennials or newly planted trees 

and shrubs, may need extra 

protection. Consider covering them 

with horticultural fleece or burlap to 

shield them from frost. 

CLEANING AND 

MAINTAINING 

TOOLS: 

Winter is an ideal time to clean 

and sharpen your gardening tools. 

Properly maintained tools will last 

longer and make your gardening 

tasks more efficient when the 

growing season returns. 

GREENHOUSE CARE: 

If you have a greenhouse, it’s 

essential to keep it in good 

condition. Check for any leaks or 

damaged glass and ensure proper 

insulation to protect your plants 

from the cold. You can also use the 

greenhouse to start seedlings early 

for spring planting. 

CLEARING DEBRIS: 

Clean up fallen leaves, dead plants, 

and any debris from the garden 

beds. Removing plant matter can 

help prevent the spread of diseases 

and discourage overwintering pests. 

One piece of kit that makes this a 

breeze is the Stiga VS 100e Kit 

Cordless Vacuum Shredder (£251, 

stiga.com/uk)- can not only be 

used as a blower but can also 

vacuum up debris around the 

garden and shred it into an ecofriendly 

mulch that you can then 

use on your flowerbeds. Two tools 

in one and all powered by battery 

technology! The bonus is it’s also 

great in the summer months for 

cleaning up after hedge trimming. 

FEEDING BIRDS: 

Winter is a challenging time for 

wildlife. Providing food, water, and 

shelter for birds can attract a variety 

of species to your garden and 

contribute to the local ecosystem. 

GARDEN PLANNING: 

Winter offers an excellent 

opportunity to plan your garden for 

the upcoming year. Research and 

order seeds, bulbs, and plants, and 

create a garden layout to ensure a 

well-organized and thriving garden 

in the spring. 

By attending to these essential 

gardening tasks during the winter 

months, you can help ensure a 

healthy, vibrant garden that will 

thrive in spring and beyond. So, 

don’t hang up your gardening 

gloves just yet; there’s plenty to do 

to keep your garden in excellent 

shape during the winter. 


C 

M 

Y 

M 

Y 

Y 

MY 

K

Robin Large Sofa in Basket Weave, 

Sandstone, arloandjacob.com 

HOME 

for Christmas 

OVERHAUL 

DINING SPACE - is your table large enough 

to host? Consider an extending table, which you can 

keep smaller throughout the year until you need to up 

the size. 

REPAINT - new paint or wallpaper is the fastest, 

and one of the cheapest, to completely transform the 

feel of a space. 

NEW SOFA - just be sure to choose one from a 

company who can deliver in time for Christmas! 

LIVING 

&DINING 

Broccoli Brown, 

Farrow & Ball 

Eyebright by 

Earthborn Paints 

Burano Dining Chair, bridgman.co.uk 

Navy Leaved Plant On Taupe A3 Graphic 

Print, Oak Frame, £45 cultfurniture.com 

QUICK FIXES 

REFRESH WITH NEW 

PRINTS - it’s amazing the life that new 

artwork can inject into a space - try to pick 

a piece which includes the colours of your 

larger furniture pieces, like your sofa. 

Istanbul Lamp, 

£179, hauslife. 

co.uk 

NEW CUSHIONS - seasonally 

change your cushions, you can keep the 

same inners and just swap the covers to 

refresh the space. Add more cosy fabrics 

like velvet, wool and corduroy as we come 

into the cooler months. 

NEW RUG - rugs have big impact 

without having to get new flooring. 

Clear Waters, Tresco by Ted 

Dyer - options from £120 

johndyergallery.com 


The whole house has 

been transformed by 

Rockwarm using a 

traditional white 

finish render for the 

External Insulation. 

We are extremely 

pleased with the 

installation, and the 

attention to to detail 

throughout, any 

minor problems were 

overcome with ease, 

a very helpful office 

staff, good 

communication and 

friendly. Wouldn’t 

hesitate to to highly 

recommend 

Rockwarm.

eachhouseart.co.uk 

OVERHAUL 

NEW BATHROOM - It might be time for a new 

bathroom. Depending on your fixtures, you may be able 

to reuse elements and just refresh the tiles. If you are 

undergoing larger works, chat through your plans with 

your bathroom installer to make sure they address all the 

practicalities. 

BATHROOM 

Rhoper Rhodes 

Roddy Wall Light pooky.com 

QUICK FIXES 

CHANGE ACCESSORIES- 

Replace your soap dispenser, toothbrush 

holder, loo roll holder and bin - a little refresh 

can make all the difference. The same goes 

for fresh, fluffy towels. 

REPAINT YOUR WALLS - if you 

don’t have full tiles, a fresh lick of paint can 

make a space feel cleaner and more inviting. 

Emerald Plumage Wallpaper, 

Divine Savages 

Dunelm 

REPLACE OLD/MOULDY SILICON - 

it’s amazing how much better fresh, clean and white 

silicon looks. 

NEW PRINTS - changing up your bathroom 

prints can breathe new life into the space. 

Hand Wash, 

£6.99, kitandkin. 

com; Tray, £35, 

boxwoodhomeinteriors. 

co.uk

Annie Sloan Kitchen Paint 

QUICK FIXES 

REPAINT YOUR CABINETS - if your 

units are in good condition, this is a great way to 

save money and stop the upheaval that a kitchen 

transformation can bring. We advise you only get a 

professional to do this as you need the finish to be 

hard-wearing. Similarly, changing the worktops can 

have a transformative effect. 

LIGHTING- kitchen lighting must be both functional 

and aesthetically pleasing. How about changing a 

pendant light to a spotlight rail for more working light, or 

changing the pendants on your breakfast bar. Try adding 

a wireless lamp to brighten dark corners. 

RESTYLE - change up the accessories you have on 

the sides and have a big declutter 

ARTWORK - hanging some new prints, or propping 

some on open shelves can inject personality into a space 

and make it feel more inviting. 

KITCHEN 

OVERHAUL 

ADD NEW KITCHEN STOOLS - many of us 

buy a quick fix with a new kitchen but it’s good to revisit 

with fresh eyes. 

ADD SOME OPEN SHELVING - it’s a fresh 

way to add a bit more storage and you can display your 

favourite pieces 

Olive & Barr Kitchens 

Wireless Lamp, £150, oka.com 

It might be time to bite the bullet and opt for a 

new kitchen - many of us are living with poorlydesigned 

spaces which don’t stand up to 

familial needs. If you’re trying to get this ordered 

before Christmas, you need to be decisive 

about what you need. Consult an expert 

kitchen designer - they’ll have ideas to 

maximise functionality whilst creating 

something beautiful. 

Print, inkanddrop.com 

Sylvia Kitchen Stool, 

£129, cultfurniture.com 


GUEST 

BEDROOM 

OVERHAUL 

REDECORATE - updating the room and 

adding elements of interest like panelling can be 

transformative. 

NEW BED - lots of us have guest rooms 

with beds that have been retired from service 

somewhere else in the house. Making sure the 

bed is comfortable and inviting, plus aesthetically 

pleasing gives an instant update - after all, it is the 

biggest thing in the room. 

SOFA BED - for many of us, our guest room 

is now our home office, so it might make more 

sense to have a sofa bed that can act as a break 

out space when you’re working and save space 

when not in use. 

Ca’ Pietra Proper Good Paint 

Pair of Ophelia Droplet Mirrors, £260, frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk 

QUICK FIXES 

NEW LIGHTING - some new table lamps can 

refresh the space, or you can get wall lights with plugs 

to save space on the bedside tables. 

NEW BEDDING - new bedding really refreshes 

a space. Think about providing enough pillows and lots 

of layers like blankets and quilts - it makes a space feel 

inviting. 

ADD ACCESSORIES - decorative elements 

breathe life into a space - too often, guest rooms look 

forgotten about. Pair it right back, get rid of the clutter 

and add things like a reed diffuser, cushions on the bed, 

a mirror and a vase of flowers or a house plant. 

The perfect sofa bed for smaller spaces - 

Swyft Model 08 Sofa Bed swyfthome.com 

French Bedroom Company 

MAKE IT INVITING - adding things like fluffy 

towels, a nice cotton robe to wear or a basket with 

essentials like toothpaste, 

Demira Tassel Cushion, from £36, 

and Nia Tassel Throw, £65, both 



GET INTO THE 

Groove 

Could a new pillow be the answer 

to a restful night’s sleep? 

We all know the feeling of waking up after an 

uncomfortable night - a stiff neck, radiating back pain or 

sore shoulders and poor sleep. Did you ever thing the 

culprit might be your pillows? 

Groove® think they might be, and that they have the 

solution to getting a much better night’s sleep. 

The Groove® (formerly EasySleeper) is memory foam 

pillow eliminates neck and upper back pain and 

stiffness by correcting your posture while you sleep. 

Recommended by physiotherapists and osteopaths, 

the shape is designed to keep your neck and spine in 

alignment. There is a contoured curve in the middle, 

which cradles the head, or a shoulder curve on the 

underside to cater for side sleepers. 

With a 100 day money-back guarantee, you can sleep 

easy in the knowledge that you can try the pillow at no 

risk. And, it might just change your life! 

£29.95 groovepillows.co.uk 

HOME CLEANING 

like a pro 

Three dogs (living their best hippo-like life), two children 

(one of which loves the mud,too) and an engineer 

living under one roof means that, despite best efforts, 

annoying stains on the lovely carpets do happen – and 

rather too frequently! 

However, the new VAX SpotWash Home Cordless 

comes into its own! Portable, and run with the same 

batteries as the VAX ONEPWR Glide 2 (which we 

recently reviewed and gives you double the run time as 

you can use one battery whilst the other is charging), 

this neat machine is the go-to for all manners of spills 

and stains, without the need to go all out with a full 

carpet clean! Infact, it is so good, you can’t even see 

where the stains were! 

more, the hard floor and multipurpose attachments 

contain an antimicrobial treatment to help protect 

against bacteria growth. 

Compact and lightweight, simply add water, solution 

and set to battle with those stains! This nifty cleaner will 

soon become the staple of your household! 

Find out more at www.vax.co.uk 

It also super handy for cleaning hard to reach areas, like 

the stairs, and even cars too. The mud mentioned earlier 

is also a persistent problem in the car, but the VAX 

SpotWash Home Cordless again comes to the rescue, 

eliminating even the most stubborn of stains! 

The VAX SpotWash Home Cordless is reassuringly 

hygienic too. For optimum results, use it with VAX 

Spot Washer Antibacterial Solution to kill over 99% of 

potentially harmful bacteria and create a fresh and clean 

environment for you and your family to enjoy. What’s 


Wonderful Winter... 

NOTES FROM 

THE GARDEN 

For many people, winter in the garden just 

means getting your feet wet when you go to 

put out the bins or hang out the washing, 

but with a little careful planning, winter 

in the garden can be a wonderful, colourful 

place – and somewhere for the birds and 

insects to enjoy too. 

If you have so far failed to plant for winter colour, then a few well 

placed pots can provide the extra colour to ensure that when 

you look out of your window there is something lovely to enjoy. 

Heathers are a great choice, make sure they have ericaceous 

compost, pansies pack a punch and don’t forget to pop some 

spring bulbs in too – guaranteed to cheer up a grey day. 

Winter flowering Clematis, winter Honeysuckle Lonicera 

fragrantissima and the stately Mahonia will all give a splash of 

colour and as bees are increasingly to be found looking for food 

during the colder months you will be giving them a helping hand 

too. 

The Christmas rose Helleborus niger flowers usually in January 

and bees love them and the cheery yellow winter Aconite is 

another winner. 

It is also an idea to leave a few of your perennials standing rather 

than chopping them back – the frost on fennel and ornamental 

grasses looks wonderful and a little untidiness is great for 

overwintering insects too. 

Finally, for your gardening mad friends and relatives don’t forget 

that a thoughtful Christmas present can be a subscription to a 

great gardening magazine, gift vouchers to spend at the local 

nursery or garden centre and for housebound relatives a bird 

feeder strategically placed to be seen from an armchair and easy 

to refill will give hours of pleasure. Whatever your winter plans 

are, don’t leave your garden out of them! 

For more advice, visit Matt Bigg’s website: 

www.matthewbiggs.com 

BRITISH GARDEN CENTRES GUIDE 

Mood-boosting plants to 

enhance your wellbeing 

Plants have a remarkable ability to enhance our 

surroundings and positively impact our overall 

mental health and wellbeing. The British Garden 

Centres team explore some beautiful plants known 

for their mood-enhancing properties. 

LAVENDER 

Lavender, with its enchanting fragrance and vibrant purple blooms, 

is renowned for its calming effects. This versatile plant is often 

used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. 

WINTER JASMINE 

Winter Jasmine, with its intoxicating fragrance, is renowned for 

its mood-enhancing properties. This flowering plant has a long 

history of being used in traditional medicine to alleviate stress 

and improve sleep quality. 

CHOCOLATE COSMOS 

The chocolate cosmos boasts a luxurious, smooth brown 

blossom with a captivating fragrance reminiscent of vanilla and 

cocoa. Rest assured; the waft of chocolate scent carried by the 

wind will convert your garden into a serene sanctuary. Chocolate 

is associated with serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes 

relaxation, as well as the release of endorphins in our brains, 

fostering feelings of joy. 

BASIL 

Basil is a plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors 

and has the ability to improve your mood. This herb contains a 

compound known as linalool, which helps to decrease our stress 

levels. It is particularly effective in reducing anxiety and promoting 

a sense of calm, and it possesses a delightful floral fragrance. 

SNAKE PLANT 

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that also improves 

air quality, the snake plant is an excellent choice. Its unique 

vertical leaves and ability to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen 

make it a natural air purifier. By eliminating harmful toxins, this 

resilient plant can contribute to a healthier indoor environment, 

leading to an uplifted mood and increased productivity. 

PEACE LILY 

The peace lily is not only a beautiful addition to any room with its 

elegant white flowers, but it also acts as a natural air purifier. It 

effectively removes pollutants such as benzene and formaldehyde, 

commonly found in cleaning products and household items. 

ALOE VERA 

The aloe vera plant is a popular choice for both its soothing 

properties and decorative appeal in the home and garden. With 

its succulent leaves containing a gel-like substance, aloe vera is a 

natural remedy for minor burns and skin irritations. 


TOUCHWOODSOLIHULL.CO.UK 

He's 

heRE 

Santa is back in residence this 

year at his enchanted Christmas 

grotto. He’s eagerly waiting to 

receive wish lists and will even 

have an early gift for your little 

ones. Be sure to book online 

so the elves can reserve 

your space. 

Magical Moments 

at Touchwood. 

BOOK TICKETS NOW 

CHRISTMASATTOUCHWOOD.CO.UK

Quality care in 

Solihull you can 

trust 

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

When a family is thinking about care for a loved 

one, they want the best - they want to know that 

the care home they choose will put their loved 

one’s safety, happiness and wellbeing first... 

Blossomfield Grange is managed by award-winning provider 

Care UK - one of the UK’s most highly successful care home 

operators* with over 40 years’ experience of delivering high 

quality care to older people. 

Blossomfield Grange stands out from other care homes with its 

large apartment-style living and luxury facilities. The home offers 

a choice between two room types, each with their own ensuite 

bathrooms, private dining areas and kitchenettes. Our one bed 

suites are ideal for individuals, whilst our companion suites offer 

an additional room, perfect for couples to enjoy as an extra living 

area. 

Living at Blossomfield Grange is all about quality of life, and 

we offer tailored care both for residential residents, as well as 

those living with dementia on our specialist memory care floor. 

All residents are supported to continue to enjoy lifelong hobbies 

and make new friends, from music sessions to quizzes, while 

dancing, exercise classes, yoga and gardening support residents 

to stay fit and active. 

GRANGE 

COURT 

Quality independent living 

apartments for the over 55’s 

Blossomfield Grange is designed with signage, colour schemes, 

soft furnishings and floor coverings all chosen to create a calm 

and accessible home from home. The dementia suite also 

includes extra items to aid reminiscence and create a sensory 

and engaging space. We also have our own café bistro, hair salon 

and large established gardens, enabling all residents to enjoy a 

fulfilling lifestyle. 

Blossomfield Grange care home 

1 Worcester Way Off Dog Kennel Lane, Solihull B90 4JX 

0121 667 6510 

careuk.com/blossomfield-grange 

*As rated by the Care Quality Commission in England and the Care 

Inspectorate in Scotland. 

from 

£180,000 

• Delightful one and two bedroomed 

apartments 

• Fully fitted kitchen with integrated 

appliances 

• Large bathroom with separate shower 

cubicle and bath 

• Spacious lounge, ample storage 

throughout 

• Beautiful gardens, owners lounge 

• Reserved parking available 

(additional charge) 

• Excellent local shopping 

For further details please call Linda Fleetwood on 

0121 706 8975 

298 Warwick Road, Solihull B92 7GL www.kingsdale.co.uk 


Join us for 

our next 

event 

Blossomfield Grange 

care home, Solihull 

Dementia café 

First Monday of every month 

10.30am - 12 noon 

Aimed at those living with dementia and their 

loved ones, you’ll have the opportunity to meet 

other people, share experiences, take part in 

our fun activities and get advice and support. 

Trusted to care. 

To book please call 

0121 667 6510 or email 

jo.hopkins@careuk.com

Hello 

Solihull 

Homeowners and guests at Wheatley Place 

were joined by Celebrity guest David 

Harper to officially open the age-exclusive 

development in Shirley, Solihull. 

David Harper (pictured centre) along with homeowners, guests 

and staff members at the Wheatley Place Grand Opening. 

Wheatley Place, a state-of-the-art Retirement Living 

Plus development for those aged 70 and over - that 

recently opened on Stratford Road in Shirley, has 

started to welcome its new community of residents 

- with BBC Antiques expert, David Harper, stopping 

by to officially open the development. 

The contemporary development offers a unique 

brand of retirement living with incredible amenities 

to help homeowners live a fulfilled and independent 

retirement. Apartments are spaciously designed 

with contemporary finishes throughout, fully-fitted 

kitchens with appliances and smart storage solutions 

built-in - every little detail is taken care of. It also 

comes with an enviable range of facilities and a true 

community feel. 

Evidence of this was proudly on display at its 

official opening event recently, which welcomed 

David Harper to Wheatley Place to cut the ribbon 

on the development and meet some of its latest 

homeowners. 

They heard first-hand from David about his work 

as an antiques expert and had the opportunity to 

pose questions to him about his experiences and 

forthcoming projects. 

David shared; “We had music, fabulous food, happy 

homeowners - who asked loads of questions during 

my talk and really kept me on my toes! Lots of guests, 

great company and a day to remember…thank you!” 

“What a brilliant event the Grand 

Opening was!” 

Lisa Shepherd, Estates Manager at Wheatley Place, 

has enjoyed seeing the new homeowners moving 

in and making the development their home while 

creating meaningful connections with one another: 

“Wheatley Place really has some fantastic facilities, 

while also allowing homeowners the opportunity 

to access a range of shops and amenities on their 

doorstep in Shirley high street and Sears Retail 

Park. There is also the added luxury of having their 

own wellness suite where they can enjoy a relaxing 

pampering and treatment of choice whenever they 

fancy. We also have an exercise studio, where we are 

currently looking to introduce a weekly Pilates class 

so health and wellbeing is a real priority and part of 

the way of life here.” 

David also took up the opportunity to stay in 

the on-site Guest Suite, which can be booked 

out at a competitive rate by friends and family of 

homeowners to stay in when visiting loved ones. 

David shared his thoughts on his stay in the Guest 

Suite; “I’ve opened many McCarthy Stones over the 

years - They’re always good fun events, lively and 

well attended, but this time, because I was travelling 

quite some distance, I asked if it was possible for 

me to stay in their guest accommodation the night 

before the Grand Opening. 

As someone who spends his life on the road filming 

antiques shows for the BBC and my YouTube 

Channel, I see and experience a lot of hotel rooms! 

And because I’ve seen a lot of McCarthy Stone Guest 

Suites whilst appearing at openings, I’ve often 

David Harper giving a comical, yet insightful talk to the 

Wheatley Place community.

admired (jealously) their guest accommodation! 

So, to get a chance to stay in one was actually quite 

exciting! One of the biggest problems with hotels is 

noise…people, machines, traffic and any number of 

other things that effect rest and recuperation! 

My guest accommodation was the perfect hotel for 

the night…Quiet, warm, comfortable and oh, so very 

clean and fresh…I even bagged myself a piping hot 

full English breakfast!” 

Laura Pittaway, part of the team behind Wheatley 

Place, said: “The Opening of Wheatley Place was 

a fantastic occasion, and our guests thoroughly 

enjoyed meeting David and learning more about his 

fascinating career both on and off-screen. 

There is still opportunity for local retirees to find 

their dream home and make the most of their 

retirement years at Wheatley Place. We’d like to 

encourage anyone interested to get in touch with 

the team to find out more.” 

YOU’RE INVITED... 

Join us on Thursday 30th November 

for our CHRISTMAS PARTY 

from 12pm - 3pm. 

Call today to book your place. 

Wheatley Place, Connaught Close, Stratford 

Road, Shirley, West Midlands, B90 4GZ 

Find out more at mccarthystone.co.uk/ 

wheatley-place 

Wheatley Place, Shirley 

Retirement apartments 

available from £117,000 + 

with monthly rent of £269 

One and two bedroom properties available at our beautiful Wheatley Place 

development. Exclusively for the over 70s. 

MAKE YOUR MOVE HAPPEN WITH 

SHARED OWNERSHIP 

Run in partnership with Homes England, 

you can now enjoy retirement living without 

committing to the full price. Pay just 50% of 

the full property value and move in, with a 

monthly rent payable on the rest. 

50% SHARE 

Property Full Value £234,000 

Purchase 50% Share £117,000 

Rent on Share £269 

50% 

50% 

For more information call 

0800 201 4263 

or visit mccarthystone.co.uk/shared-ownership 

+Ts&Cs apply. Subject to availability. Example shown when purchasing a 50% share, with monthly rent. Other shares available. 

Qualifying criteria apply. Shared Ownership is available on selected apartments at participating developments only. 

Not available in conjunction with Part Exchange. See mccarthystone.co.uk/shared-ownership for details. Information correct at time of print. 

SC019021

THE ROAD TO RETIREMENT: 

Property Prospects 

As retirement approaches, many 

individuals contemplate a change of 

scenery, downsizing, or seeking a 

property that caters to their evolving 

needs and preferences. In the UK, 

the retirement property market offers 

a diverse range of options, each 

with unique features and financial 

considerations. 

LOCATION, LOCATION, 

LOCATION 

The importance of location cannot 

be overstated. Consider proximity to 

essential services such as healthcare 

facilities, shopping centres, public 

transport, and recreational amenities. 

Also, think about your lifestyle 

preferences; do you prefer urban 

living, a tranquil countryside setting, 

or a coastal retreat? 

PROPERTY TYPE 

Retirement properties come in 

various forms, including apartments, 

bungalows, and retirement villages. 

The choice depends on your mobility, 

lifestyle, and future healthcare 

needs. Apartments may offer 

easy maintenance and communal 

facilities, while bungalows provide 

more space and independence. 

Retirement villages often provide 

a supportive community centred 

around various amenities. 

ACCESSIBILITY AND 

ADAPTABILITY 

Consider the property’s accessibility. 

Look for features like ramps, wide 

doorways, and grab bars that can 

accommodate any mobility issues 

that may arise in the future. If the 

property requires modifications, 

factor in the cost and feasibility of 

making them. 

SERVICE CHARGES AND 

GROUND RENT 

Many retirement properties come 

with service charges and ground 

rent. These fees cover maintenance, 

communal facilities, and amenities. 

Carefully review these charges and 

their implications on your budget. 

Be aware of any potential increases 

over time. 

LEGAL STRUCTURE 

Understand the legal structure of 

the retirement property. Some may 

be leasehold, freehold, or part of a 

retirement community. Leasehold 

properties may have restrictions, so 

consult a solicitor to review the lease 

agreement thoroughly. 

SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES 

Retirement properties often provide 

opportunities for social interaction 

and activities. Investigate whether 

there are communal spaces, social 

clubs, or organised events that 

align with your interests. A vibrant 

social life can greatly enhance your 

retirement experience. 

FINANCIAL 

CONSIDERATIONS 

When it comes to finances, think 

about the following: 

Budget: Determine your budget 

before beginning your search. Take 

into account the purchase price, 

service charges, ground rent, and 

any potential future expenses. 

Equity Release: Explore the 

possibility of using equity release 

schemes to fund your retirement 

property. These can provide a lump 

sum or regular income to help with 

the purchase. 

Selling Existing Property: If you’re 

selling your current home, calculate 

the proceeds from the sale and how 

they will contribute to your retirement 

property purchase. 

Downsizing Benefits: Downsizing to 

a smaller property can free up capital 

and reduce ongoing costs. 

Inheritance Planning: Consider 

the impact of buying a retirement 

property on your inheritance plans. 

Consult with financial advisors to 

ensure your financial strategy aligns 

with your goals. 

HEALTHCARE ACCESS 

As you age, healthcare becomes 

more critical. Ensure you have 

access to healthcare facilities, 

doctors, and pharmacies nearby. 

Consider proximity to hospitals and 

medical specialists, especially if you 

have existing health concerns. 

Buying a retirement property in the 

UK can be a significant step toward a 

comfortable and fulfilling retirement. 

By carefully considering location, 

property type, accessibility, financial 

aspects, and social opportunities, you 

can make an informed decision that 

supports your well-being and financial 

security during your golden years. 

Consult with experts, seek legal 

advice, and take your time to find the 

perfect retirement property that suits 

your needs and preferences. 


This is 

health 

Age is just a 

number in our 

care homes 

Whether you’re 65 or 105, you’re still you. Up for new 

things or loving your old favourites. Find a new place 

to enjoy every day with Bupa care homes. 

Bupa care homes near you 

Nursing | Residential | Short stay 

All types of funding welcome 

No health insurance needed 

Aston Court Care Home 

Sutton Coldfield B74 3BF 

Dementia 

nursing 

Ardenlea Court 

Solihull B91 2AF 

Dementia 

care 

Call our helpful care team 

to start your search 

0121 392 9612 

bupa.co.uk/care-services 

Dementia 

care 

Lines are open 8am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 12.30pm Saturday. 

Closed Sundays and bank holidays. Calls are charged at no more than local rate and 

count towards any inclusive minutes from mobiles. We may record or monitor our calls. 

Ardenlea Grove Care Home 

Solihull B91 2AB 

The Priory 

Shirley B90 4XA 

Care Home 

Provider of the 

Year 2022 

108666 UNI

Lady Katherine Housing & Care 

Rated by the Care Quality Commission as: 

GOOD 

RESIDENTIAL CARE 

RESPITE CARE 

SHELTERED HOUSING 

(now taking Christmas, Permanent and Respite bookings) 

If you would like to pay us a visit or discuss our 

current availability contact: 

Chris Mundell 

on 

01564 772415 

Company No. 7890553 www.leveson.org.uk Registered Charity 1146710

F_BAR_J010733 Q4 - Solihull Living Advert - Fountains - 240 x 165mm.indd 1 29/09/2023 12:58 

Care as unique 

as you are 

A place where your loved one matters 

When looking for a care home it’s important to to know your loved 

one will will be be valued for for the the unique unique person person they they are, are, surrounded surrounded by 

caring by caring people people who understand who understand their routines, their routines, know their know favourite their 

favourite foods, foods, and and support support them them to enjoy to enjoy the hobbies the hobbies 

and interests they love most. 

You’ll You’ll find find all this all this and and more more at Broadway at Fountains Halls Care Care Home. Home. 

Call 0121 5148 318 to find out how we can help you. 

1355 Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4EF 

barchester.com/Fountains 

Residential care • Dementia care • Respite breaks

Looking for 

quality care 

for a loved 

one in 

Solihull? 

BOOK 

A TOUR 

TODAY 

DISCOVER OUR WONDERFUL, 

WELCOMING CARE HOME COMMUNITIES. 

A dementia centre 

of excellence for Solihull 

and the Midlands 

Woodview Rise, Blythe Valley Park, 

Shirley, Solihull, B90 8DQ 

Raising the bar 

in luxury residential, 

nursing and respite care 

Blossomfield Park, 

Blossomfield Road, Solihull B91 1FN 

Come and see for yourself what makes MACC Care so very special. 

Call: 0330 107 5947 to arrange a personalised tour now 

www.macccare.com/solihull

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE 

MAKING MEMORIES. 

SHARING SMILES. 

ENRICHING LATER LIVES 

Anyone thinking about 

care - for themselves or 

for a loved one - would 

be well advised to 

consider MACC Care. 

While each home within its 

growing network across the 

Midlands offers professional care 

and support within a ‘home from 

home’ environment, a close-knit 

community and a relaxed, familyfeel; 

in character and ‘personality’ 

every MACC Care home is unique. 

Those living in and around 

Solihull are fortunate to have two 

contemporary care homes to 

choose between: Blossomfield 

Rose, minutes from Solihull’s town 

centre in leafy Blossomfield Park 

and Blythe Rose, conveniently 

located on the edge of Blythe 

Valley Park. 

A ‘BLOSSOMING’ COMMUNITY 

Blossomfield Rose takes 

luxury care to new levels. This 

contemporary care home looks 

and feels like a five-star hotel, with 

beautifully designed communal 

spaces, well-appointed en-suite 

bedrooms, wonderful facilities and 

a stunning parkland setting. 

Person-centred nursing, residential 

and respite care is delivered by an 

experienced and compassionate 

team who prioritise happiness and 

emotional wellbeing. 

Whether it’s meeting with friends 

over coffee and cake in the Coach 

House Café, taking in a classic 

movie in the in-house cinema and 

arts area, or enjoying a pamper 

in The Stables salon and wellness 

suite, the focus is very much ‘feelgood’. 

Outside spaces are nothing 

short of spectacular. Blossomfield 

Rose residents, their families and 

friends benefit from therapeutic 

green space in abundance, with five 

acres of mature private grounds 

to enjoy, a highlight of which is 

Tudor Grange’s beautifully restored, 

original walled garden. 

When it comes to activities and 

events, there is plenty going on, 

with fun and laughter, friendships 

and enrichment always high on the 

agenda. 

A DEMENTIA CARE CENTRE 

OF EXCELLENCE 

Purpose-designed, expertly staffed 

and equipped to deliver specialist 

dementia care, Blythe Rose offers 

enriching experiences for those 

living with dementia, from early 

diagnosis and changing behaviours, 

right through to complex cases, 

progressive conditions and end-oflife 

care. 

Great consideration has been given 

to the creation of inspirational 

living spaces throughout the 

home, in which individuals can 

feel safe, loved and supported to 

thrive, no matter how complex 

their needs. “MACC Care’s own 

progressive model of care, ‘Living 

in Harmony’ enables residents to 

enjoy meaningful and fulfilling days. 

Assisted by ‘Homemakers’ they are 

gently encouraged to participate 

in everyday tasks, as much or 

as little as feels comfortable for 

them – helping to prepare meals, 

cleaning, eating together, enjoying 

social activities and so on,” explains 

Deena Heaney MBE, MACC Care 

Dementia Lead. 

“It’s a very different approach in 

dementia care that can make such 

a huge difference to individual 

wellbeing, helping to promote 

greater stability, and importantly, 

a sense of purpose and personal 

achievement.” 

Why not arrange a personalised 

tour? Please call 0330 107 5947 

for details and to arrange a tour. 

Alternatively, find out more at 

www.macccare.com/solihull 

BRINGING QUALITY 

CARE TO SOLIHULL

Getting older 

has its benefits... 

Beautifully appointed apartments. Exceptional facilities. 

An unrivalled location. Exclusively for the over 55s. 

Lovekin Gate, Blossomfield Park, 

Blossomfield Rd, Solihull B91 1FL 

Call: 0121 827 0721 

www.lovekingate.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE 

LOVEKIN GATE 

“LUXURIOUS, 

CONTEMPORARY 

AND UNASHAMEDLY 

AGE-EXCLUSIVE” 

Adding to the sense of comfort 

and luxury, high specification 

fixtures and fittings are available, 

including Quartz worktops, 

Siemens appliances, Wilton carpets, 

Porcelanosa tiles and Amtico 

flooring. Further upgrade options 

are available to add to homeowners’ 

convenience, including the Pax Lock 

luxury keyless entry system. 

MODERN AMENITIES WITH 

A HERITAGE BACKDROP 

Modern, maintenance-free 

living; superb facilities 

with a heritage, ‘country 

club’ feel; a vibrant new community; leafy mature 

private grounds, yet minutes away from Solihull’s 

shops, restaurants, arts, entertainment and transport 

links… while the stunning Lovekin Gate apartments 

have cross-generational appeal, there’s one important 

caveat - only those on the ‘right side of 55’ can live here! 

Nestled in the unique Blossomfield 

Park development, this select 

collection of one- and two-bedroom 

apartments from MACC Retirement 

is testament to the adage that 

getting older is not without its 

benefits. In fact, age-exclusive 

Lovekin Gate offers all that retirees 

need to live life to the full, today 

and in years to come, with carefullyconsidered 

support easily accessible 

as and when needed. 

GENEROUSLY PROPORTIONED 

LIVING SPACES 

Modern, light-filled and energyefficient, 

each spacious private 

apartment is safe and secure – 

a stress-free haven, perfectly 

suited for those pursuing an active, 

‘lock up and leave’ retirement 

lifestyle, and equally, those ready 

to downsize and make life a 

little easier. 

Many apartments offer stunning 

views across landscaped gardens to 

Tudor Grange, the Grade II mansion 

making up the centrepiece to what 

is widely considered one of Solihull’s 

most exciting listed building 

renovation schemes. 

This landmark building boasts 

wonderful amenities for the 

exclusive use of Blossomfield Park 

apartment owners including a bar 

and lounge, a library and games 

room, cinema and gym. 

“The amazing Lovekin Gate 

apartments offer a unique 

proposition: contemporary design, 

innovation and every modern 

convenience, within a setting that is 

rich in tradition and heritage.” says 

Nancy Magar, Land & New Homes 

Partner at Connells. 

“We’d urge anyone who is ready 

to re-think retirement to arrange a 

viewing and prepare to be wowed - 

Lovekin Gate exceeds expectations!” 

Book a viewing today 

To arrange a viewing or find 

out more, call appointed agents 

Connells on 0121 827 0721 or email 

blossomfieldpark@connells.co.uk 

www.lovekingate.co.uk 


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Print Ad with text - Wolverhampton.indd 1 04/09/2023 15:59

Solihull Living Nov - Dec 2023

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