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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024
J’AIME
YOUR LOCAL LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Your
festive season
starts here!
Gift guide, entertainment
partywear and more
Discover a taste of Italy with a
Lichfield foodie’s cookbook
A classic
Christmas:
sticking to tradition
with seasonal decor
1
www.jaimemagazine.com
CONTENTS
InsideJ’aime this month...
6 Buon Appetito - Discover the life, soul
and taste of Italian cooking with Lichfield
foodie Alison Ranwell’s new cookbook -
plus you could win a signed copy
12 Property - Property spotlight with Jayman
Lichfield
14 Property - Luxurious later living with
Pegasus Homes
16 Interiors - Discover Cinnamon Slate
18 Interiors - Have yourself a classic
Christmas
23 Christmas - Christmas tree tips from Lichf
ield Garden Centre
26 Christmas - Festive gifting all wrapped up
30 Food and drink - Reviewing Varanasi,
Birmingham
32 Food and drink - Tamworth sensation
Spud Man’s cookbook launch
34 Food and drink - Game on for game
season with Dubberley Delicious
37 What’s On - Festive events at New Hall
38 Food and drink - Browns Brasserie comes
to Sutton Park
40 Travel - An Italian trilogy with RB
Collection
46 What’s On - Events around the Midlands
this festive season
50 Wealth Matters - Exploring the world of
finance with financial adviser Kevin
Jenkins
52 Fashion - Perfect party pieces
54 Fashion - Top coat picks
56 Beauty - The season to sparkle
58 In the news - Luxury kitchens from Ellis Hyde
4
www.jaimemagazine.com
Welcome to J’AIME
As we near the business end of 2024, it’s time to
start preparing for the most wonderful time of the
year. From the beautiful decorations to the delicious
feasts, Christmas is a time of joy, togetherness and a
little bit of indulgence - and we’ve got plenty going
on in this issue to help make your festive season one
to remember.
Discover some of the best festive entertainment
around the Midlands with our What’s On guide,
tick of your Christmas shopping list with our roundup
of top gifts, and make sure you’re party ready
all December long with our fashion and beauty
updates.
Elsewhere, we chat to Lichfield foodie Alison
Ranwell, of Italian specialists Mangia Mangia,
ahead of the launch of her brand new cookbook
Appetito. Here, Alison shares her passion for all
things Italy and shares a delicious festive recipe for
you to try at home - plus, one lucky reader will win
a signed copy of the book featuring a whole host of
mouth-watering recipes.
And if that whets your appetite for a little Italian
adventure, check out our Italian travel trilogy from
the experts at Lichfield’s RB Collection, taking in
the spectacular cities of Rome, Florence and Venice
on a trip perfect for lovers of la dolce vita!
To all of our readers, advertisers and contributors,
everyone here at J’AIME sends the very best for
the festive season and beyond. As a small business,
your support is crucial, and we look forward to
bringing you the best the Midlands has to offer into
the New Year. We’d like to wish you the merriest of
Christmases, and here’s hoping 2025 brings peace
and prosperity to all.
If you enjoy 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 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: JACK DUBBERLEY,
KEVIN JENKINS
J’AIME IS PUBLISHED BY ASHBURY
PUBLICATIONS LIMITED.
Check us out online at:
WWW.JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM
Find us on
/JAIMEMAGAZINE
@JAIMEMAGAZINE
www.jaimemagazine.com
5
FEATURE
Buon Appetito!
BRIGHT RED TOMATOES, BOTTOMLESS CARAFES OF WHITE WINE, AND THE BUSTLING CHATTER OF
FAMILY AND FRIENDS: THIS IS THE LIFE, SOUL, AND TASTES OF ITALY, BROUGHT TO LIFE IN LICHFIELD
FOODIE ALISON RANWELL’S DEBUT COOKBOOK, APPETITO, AS AMY NORBURY DISCOVERS
It all started with a lasagna. Not just any lasagna,
mind, but a treasured family recipe which Alison
Ranwell thought was too good, too delicious, not to
share. Nonna Lili’s famous lasagna was the inspiration
behind Mangia Mangia, the food business Alison runs
in Lichfield with her Italian husband Francesco - and
now Alison has shared the family secret in her debut
cookbook, Appetito.
From the rugged Alpine mountains to the glistening
shores of the Amalfi Coast, Appetito paints a vivid
portrait of a country rich in passion, tradition, and
simply good food. Weaving colourful food stories with
heartfelt anecdotes over 50 recipes, Alison welcomes
readers into her Italian family kitchen.
It’s a country South African-born Alison knows
intimately, having spent 20 years living in a small
hilltop town in Northern Italy, at the foothills of the
Dolomites, where she met Francesco and had their
two daughters. But seven years ago Alison moved her
family back to the UK seven years ago and now calls
Lichfield home.
“It was a bit of an impromptu decision,” says Alison.
“My mum is British so I spent quite a bit of time
in the UK, and I’d previously lived in London. We
actually stumbled upon Lichfield on one of the best
days of the year, the music festival was on in the park
and it was so fantastic. We had a few hours to kill
before our flight so we wandered through town and
it was such an amazing place, and we just looked at
each other and said ‘this is where we want to live’.
Lichfield has such a vibrant food scene too, it really is
wonderful.”
CAMPO SAN POLO, VENEZIA
NONNA LILI’S FAMOUS LASAGNA WAS THE
INSPIRATION BEHIND MANGIA MANGIA
But Alison found herself unable to leave behind her
adopted country’s bountiful energy and spirit. Eager
to bring a taste of Italy to the Midlands, and inspired
to share her mother-in-law’s lasagna, Alison launched
Mangia Mangia in 2021. Translating to ‘Eat up, eat
up’, the business’s name is a hearty call to feast, which
is exactly what its customers do at its market stall and
Italian Extravaganza evenings.
“We wanted to share Francesco’s mum’s lasagna with
as many people as possible, we all think it’s the best,”
says Alison. “Every time we go there it’s her special
thing to make.
“Towards the end of lockdown when a lot of
businesses were switching to delivery, we had the idea
that it would be wonderful to do that. We started
really small, delivering locally, and we had a tiny
menu with her lasagna, a couple of vegetarian and
seasonal lasagna, as well as tiramisu.”
And so Mangia Mangia was born. The menu slowly
6
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KEEN PHOTOGRAPHER ALISON HAS TAKEN ALL OF
THE PHOTOS IN APPETITO
grew, incorporating Francesco’s signature risotto, fluffy
focaccia, seasonal salads and antipasti, and they started
catering for events and offering grazing tables, as well as
opening a pop-up Aperol Spritz bar which they took to
festivals and dining events around the Midlands. They
also have a market stall at Lichfield’s producers market.
Cooking - and particularly Italian food - has always been
a passion for Alison. So launching Mangia Mangia was a
return to her foodie roots.
“For my family, cooking was always one of our go-to
fun things,” says Alison. “When I was growing up, if
we were bored and needed something to do, we’d cook
something! And when I was a teenager I bought myself
a pasta machine and started making fresh pasta sauces in
our kitchen and churning out tagliatelle, which I would
then sell to my mum’s friends, who were teachers!
“So there’s always been this real love of food, of
producing food and cooking for people - and I always
had a passion for Italian cuisine. Cape Town, where I
grew up, is a real melting pot of international cultures,
especially food-wise, and there’s a big Italian influence
there.”
With Mangia Mangia a growing success Alison also
launched a blog, The Italian Way, featuring travel, food
and photography - and the release of Appetito is the
culmination of her writing endeavours.
“It’s all a bit of a whirlwind at the moment to be honest,”
laughs Alison. “This is the first book I’ve ever published
so it’s all new to me, but it’s very exciting.
“I’ve always been passionate about writing,
it’s been a hobby. The recipe book came as
inspiration from the blog. I’m passionate
about photography too, so I have a lot of
photography, so the book seems a natural
progression.”
In Appetito, Alison brings together her
family’s and customers’ favourites in one
essential collection. From Tyrolean Dumplings
to Nonna Lili’s Lasagne to Mussels Marinara,
her recipes promise a table full of happy
stomachs and treasured moments shared. With
a curious, seasonal, and wholeheartedly Italian
ethos, Appetito makes best use of regional
ingredients and encourages home cooks to
explore their local shores, woodland, and
markets for the freshest and ripest produce. To
end the evening, the book’s concluding dolci
(desserts) chapter, offers a delicious selection
of traditional and festive treats, including
a quartet of tiramisu, from Limoncello,
Strawberry and Amaretti to a classic Tiramisu
Trevigiano.
With accompanying prose so evocative you
can almost hear the wind whistling through
the Dolomite peaks, Appetito aims to excite
each of the senses. Much more than just a
cookbook, it’s an intimate collection of photography and
memories that beckons readers into the warm glow of a
hazy Italian afternoon.
“In Italy, food is never really just food; there’s always a
INSALATA DI POLPO
www.jaimemagazine.com
7
background and a legend as to where it comes from,”
says Alison.
“Food binds everyone together, and people are so
proud of things like where the tomatoes are grown
which go into the pasta sauce. And just being able
to share that with people in this book, for me, is
wonderful - I want people to feel absorbed into the
culture of food.
“We all want something that’s genuine and personal.
For me, it’s telling our story as a small business, it’s
telling Francesco’s story, and the idea of putting this
all into a book, into pages that you can flick through -
the creative process was such a joy.”
LA TAGLIATA IS A SIMPLE DISH
OF SLICED STEAK ON A BED OF ROCKET
The recipes include family classics which Alison and
Francesco have perfected over years of cooking and
eating - and the whole family was involved in the
process of testing and tasting each one.
“I based it on what we cook as a family, about 60
percent of the recipes in the book are things we cook
on a regular basis,” says Alison. “The rest are recipes
we especially look out for when we’re in Italy, so it’s
very regional. Italian cooking is very regional, you
can go up north in the mountains and be eating what
we call mountain food, like bread dumplings, herby
cheeses, cured meats and comfort food, then you
you go down sound and you’ll be eating things from
the Mediterranean, like olive oil, olives and sundried
tomatoes, so it’s very different.
“For us, part of the joy of eating in Italy is knowing
what you’re going to get on the menu - so those are
the recipes I’ve put into the book.”
Alison has also included a few recipes which offer a
different perspective on Italian food.
“Italian cuisine is so varied and vast, so I’ve tried to
include things that are a little bit different from what
we’d usually expect from Italian food. So I’m hoping
that people will pick up the book and find recipes
they’ve never heard of before, and then be able to
read a little bit about them and give them a go!”
Appetito by Alison Ranwell, is out now, priced
£27, published by Maze Publishing. Available
in bookstores around the Midlands and
beyond. For more information visit
www.mangia-mangia.co.uk
Competition
J’AIME has a signed copy of Alison’s cookbook,
Appetito, to give away to one lucky reader. To be in
with a chance of winning, simply answer the following
question:
Where does the pandoro officially originate from?
Send your answer, along with your name and contact
details, via email to competitions@jaimemagazine.
com with the email subject Appetito competition.
Entries must be received by 5pm on Friday,
December 20 and the winner will be contacted by
email shortly after closing.
8
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We offer a complete ‘One Stop’
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Pandoro Albero di Natale
Alison has shared a wonderful recipe to
create a simple festive showstopper. Starshaped
and golden, this traditional, Italian
Christmas cake has its official origins in
fair Verona, but long before its creation in
October 1894, ‘Breads of Gold’ were made
all over Italy.
In shops from November and beautifully
boxed, pandoro comes encased in a large
bag with a small sachet of vanilla-flavoured
icing sugar. The trick is to empty the sachet
into the bag, together with the cake, and
shake until the entire cake is powdery white.
PREPARATION TIME: 15 MINUTES
SERVES 8-10
1 Pandoro di Verona
500g mascarpone, room temperature
4 eggs, room temperature
100g caster sugar
Optional
A splash of Marsala
Raspberries, redcurrants, or blueberries to
decorate
PREPARATION
Make the mascarpone crema by separating
the eggs and beating the whites until stiff.
In a separate bowl, beat the yolks and sugar
together until you have a smooth, light
cream.
Beat the two mixtures together until all
the lumps are gone, then fold in the egg
whites.
Stir in a splash of Marsala if you’re opting
for something slightly boozy.
Slice the pandoro horizontally into 6 equalsized
discs using a breadknife. Stack them
from largest to smallest with a layer of
mascarpone between each disc, twisting
each slightly so that the ‘branches’ stick out.
Decorate your ‘tree’ with raspberries,
blueberries, or redcurrants on each
‘branch’, and sprinkle with sifted icing sugar
‘snow’ for the full effect (there should be a
bag in your pandoro box).
COOK’S NOTES
This cake takes 15 minutes to put together,
so it’s easily made just before serving. You
can prepare the crema a day in advance
and keep it sealed in the fridge, although
I’d advise keeping it at room temperature
for an hour before assembling as the
flavours will improve.
Amaretto di Saronno, Vin Santo, limoncello
or Frangelico all work well in the crema,
as does the addition of crushed amaretto
biscuits, orange peel, or crushed pistachios.
Any leftover cream can be served
separately in a bowl with a few biscuits to
dip into it, or why not make yourself a little
tiramisù?
If you can find mini pandorini, they also
make adorable Christmas trees. During
lockdown, we decorated a tray with
three mini pandorini trees and a few
reindeer biscuits to make a magical Winter
Wonderland which everybody loved.
10
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PROPERTY
Property spotlight
THIS MONTH WE TAKE A LOOK AT AN EXCITING RENOVATION OPPORTUNITY
IN LICHFIELD, ON THE MARKET WITH JAYMAN
WOODMUIR, NETHER BEACON, LICHFIELD: OFFERS OVER £850,000
ON THE MARKET WITH JAYMAN: 01543 417559
Situated on a large plot in a desirable area of
Lichfield, Woodmuir is a detached property
with huge potential for renovation. This
five-bedroom family home offers spacious
accommodation as well as room to extend,
subject to planning permission.
On the ground floor, a large entrance hall
leads to a living room, dining room, study
and kitchen, which has a substantial utility
room off. There is also a downstairs shower
room.
The first floor offers a sizeable master
bedroom with en suite, four further goodsized
bedrooms including one with an en
suite, and a family bathroom.
Outside, there is a large lawned rear garden,
while and in-and-out driveway and garage
provide plenty of parking space.
We love: the scope to create a
beautiful home
12
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Covering Four Oaks, Lichfield and surrounding areas
Rent or Buy?
Now the budget has been announced and
people have had chance to review the effects
on their personal finances, you may be thinking
is now the right time to get on the property
ladder with your first house purchase? Or are
you considering renting initially rather than
commit to buying? Below we weigh up some of
the pros and cons of each option.
Buying
Whilst it is true that interest rates for mortgages
are higher than they have been compared to
several years ago, they have dipped slightly from
last year and most outlooks and predictions are
that at worst they will remain the same with
most predicting a continued rate drop.
When rates increase, the market slows down as
people are unable to afford to borrow the same
amount for a property purchase, this means
sellers must reduce asking prices to make the
property more affordable.
When rates, decrease, the market picks up
as mortgages become more affordable and
confidence in the market increases, leading to
more buyers committing but also leading to
asking price increases.
So with both scenarios above, there are
advantages to both situations – either in terms
of cost of the actual property, or the cost in
borrowing to fund the purchase.
Knowing when the very best time to buy is
impossible to identify and with the majority
or first time buyers requiring a mortgage, the
main factor to consider is if your own personal
finances can afford the mortgage you require
over at least a 5 year period and then work
backwards to see what the maximum price of
the property you can afford should be.
Multi-Award Winning Agency
Renting
Although rental payments won’t be building
up equity in your property, renting offers
several benefits especially for those who prefer
flexibility or are not yet ready to commit to
buying . The key advantages are;
Multi-Award Winning Agency
1. Flexibility and mobility: renting allows you to
move far more easily (and cheaply) compared to
owning your home and gives you chance to try
out different areas before committing to buying.
2. Lower up front costs: to rent a property
typically you need only find the first months rent
and the deposit – far lower than the cost of a
house deposit for purchase (usually 10%).
3. No maintenance responsibilities: Landlords
are usually responsible for repairs and
maintenance of any of the fixtures and fittings.
4. Lower / easier to budget: rental payments
are most often much lower than a mortgage
payment would be and aren’t affected by sudden
changes in interest rates than some mortgage
payments can be making it easier to budget on a
month by month basis.
West Midlands and Staffordshire based agency
Jayman, received the Best in County and Best
in Postcode award in the Staffordshire and
West Midlands Letting agent categories at the
prestigious ESTAS Customer Service Awards
2024 in October. The winners were announced
by the country’s favourite TV property presenter
Phil Spencer at the Grosvenor House in London
in front of 1,000 of the UK’s top property
professionals.
If you have a question we haven’t covered here or would like
more advice, please contact us on 01543 417 559 or email
lettings@jayman.co.uk and we will be happy to help.
James Greaves LLB
Director
PROPERTY
A thriving community
ENJOY LATER LIVING IN STYLE AT PEGASUS HOMES’ LICHFIELD BONDS DEVELOPMENT -
WITH STAMP DUTY COVERED IF YOU RESERVE YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Pegasus Lichfield Bonds is a stylish collection of
independent living homes for those enjoying life over 60,
enjoying a prime location with beautiful views across Stowe
Pool and Lichfield Cathedral. And, reserve your new home
at Lichfield Bonds by Christmas and developers Pegasus
Homes will pay your Stamp Duty.
Pegasus Homes understand moving can be stressful and
costly. So they pledge to make the process as easy as
possible by offering a range of services, so you can enjoy
the best parts of life.
Their Pegasus Pledge makes the moving process easier for
you, as Pegasus will not only pay your Stamp Duty, but
contribute £2,000 to your legal fees and give you access
to expert downsizing services courtesy of their partners,
Aprico.
Just a stone’s throw away from your new home, through
Cross Keys, you’ll find Lichfield Market Square, which
hosts vibrant markets throughout the week, including the
popular Farmer’s Market. Lichfield also has the additional
benefit of being very well connected. You can catch a train
THE SPACIOUS HOMES OFFER MODERN COMFORT
THE DEVELOPMENT OFFERS A THRIVING COMMUNITY IN
THE HEART OF LICHFIELD STYLISH LIVING AT PEGASUS
to London and arrive in 95 minutes or Birmingham in
35 minutes. The M6 is close by, making it just an hour to
Leicester, Loughborough or Derby.
The new community spreads across three buildings and
offers a mixture of one and two-bedroom modern homes.
Pegasus Lichfield Bonds boasts a stylish communal lounge
and kitchen, patio seating areas and a communal garden.
Each home is designed to the highest standard, with builtin
appliances in every kitchen and luxurious bathroom
fittings. Flooded with natural light, spacious living areas are
perfect for hosting family and friends, who are welcome to
spend a night in the community by staying in the purposebuilt
guest suite.
Prices at Pegasus Lichfield Bonds start from
£315,000. Book an appointment to see the
stunning dressed apartments today by calling
01543 648728, emailing lichfieldbonds@
pegasushomes.co.uk or visiting pegasushomes.
co.uk/pegasus-lichfield-bonds
STYLISH LIVING AT PEGASUS LICHFIELD BONDS
14
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Stamp Duty paid.
£2,000 legal fees
contribution.
Expert downsizing and
moving service from
Aprico.
A handyman service
when you move in.
No costly exit fees to pay.
No Stamp Duty.
It’s on us.
Reserve your new home at
Pegasus Lichfield Bonds by
Christmas and we’ll pay your
Stamp Duty!
We understand moving
can be stressful and costly.
Our pledge to you is to make
the process as easy as
possible by offering a range of
services, so you can enjoy the
best parts of life.
Pegasus Lichfield Bonds,
where remarkable views
of the Gothic cathedral are
complimented with this
exquisite community of one
and two bedroom homes.
Exclusively for those enjoying
life over 60.
Prices from £315,000
Discover a new lease of life at a
Pegasus community across England
01543 648 728 | lichfieldbonds@pegasushomes.co.uk
Lichfield Bonds, Cross Keys, Lichfield WS13 6FP. Image shown is indicative only. Prices shown are correct at time of publication and may be subject to change.
Prices shown are exclusive of service charge, which is payable monthly and is reviewed annually. To qualify for this promotion, customers must reserve by 24th
December 2024 and complete on their purchase by 31st March 2025. The value of tier 1 only Stamp Duty will be discounted from the purchase price. For full
terms visit pegasushomes.co.uk/stampduty
Untitled-1 1 28/10/2024 16:37:57
INTERIORS
Subtle
spice
THE candidates for interior gurus’ top colour picks
for 2025 are already rolling in. And first up is a
sophisticated yett versatile hue from paint experts
Benjamin Moore.
Their Colour of the Year 2025 is Cinnamon Slate, a
delicate mix of heathered plum and velvety brown.
Cinnamon Slate offers enduring style and a modern
sensibility, perfectly encapsulating the idea of a quietly
colourful hue.
Reflecting a growing interest in more nuanced colours,
Benjamin Moore’s 2025 pick celebrates the intricacy
and dimension of the in-between hues. Adaptable yet
distinct, Cinnamon Slate provides soothing familiarity
and balance to any design. Its unique undertones lend
depth and richness to schemes throughout the home,
and boast an intriguing interplay with light and dark
that can transform a space from dawn to dusk.
Offering an air of approachability that is set to make
it a new favourite for years to come, Cinnamon
Slate brings effortless presence to any room without
distraction.
For a subtle and elegant look, pair Cinnamon Slate with
a tonal neutral shade that strikes a balance between
warm and cool, while deep greens and saturated blues
can create a dramatic scheme.
BENJAMIN MOORE PAINT IN CINNAMON SLATE, FROM
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ZEBRANO VELVET CUSHION BY BIVAIN, £95, LIME LACE.
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GALLOWAY SUPER GRAND SOFA IN EASY CLEAN PLUSH
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16
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£1,477
BERRY ROSE TAUPE DOUBLE SIDED VELVET CUSHION, £75,
BIVAIN AT LIME LACE. WWW.LIMELACE.CO.UK
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DARLINGTON CHAIR IN EASY CLEAN PLUSH VELVET,
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£99.95 £80
MELODY MAISON TAUPE WOODEN FLUTED STORAGE STOOL
SIDE TABLE, £99.95. WWW.MELODYMAISON.CO.UK
LARGE MULBERRY AND GREY WOVEN WOOL THROW, £80,
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DOBBIES, BENJAMIN CLASSIC MOORE NOEL CINNAMON FIREPLACE SLATE, FROM £20.75 PER
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0.94L. 17 WWW.BENJAMINMOOREPAINT.CO.UK
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INTERIORS
A classic
Christmas
CELEBRATE the season in a way that feels warm,
nostalgic, and enduringly elegant by opting for
a classic take on festive decor. This trend takes
inspiration from very traditional elements—think
deep reds, forest greens, gold accents and classic
wreaths. In fact, it’s reminiscent of the kind of festive
scenes found in A Christmas Carol—grand trees
adorned with baubles, twinkling lights, and natural
garlands, creating an atmosphere that’s both opulent
and cosy.
It’s a timeless look, perfect for those who want to
evoke the charm and magic of Christmases past
without venturing into novelty or kitsch.
A fabulous tree is, of course, the focal point of your
festive decor, but it doesn’t stop there. A showstopping
wreath will welcome visitors with Christmas cheer,
while fireplaces dressed to the nines with garlands and
stockings will bring a festive feel to your living spaces.
Sticking to traditional motifs like robins and reindeer,
holly and ivy - and not forgetting the perennial
nutcracker - will keep things classic and classy.
So get ready to deck those halls and trim those trees
for a festive season to remember!
FIREPLACE DECOR FROM A SELECTION AT DOBBIES.]
WWW.DOBBIES.COM
REBECCA UDALL, MARBLE LINEN
VELVET CHRISTMAS STOCKING GREEN, £55
REBECCAUDALL.COM
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ANNABEL JAMES, CHRISTMAS WREATH
POMEGRANATE BERRY AND FIR, £59.95
WWW.ANNABELJAMES.COM
£23.50
£41.99
£59.95
18
GLASS ROBIN, £23.50, PAUL MARTYN FURNITURE AT
HEART OF THE COUNTRY SHOPPING VILLAGE.
WWW.PAULMARTYNFURNITURE.CO.UK
www.jaimemagazine.com
GISELA GRAHAM LONDON, WOOD
NUTCRACKER ORNAMENTS SET OF 2
£41.99 SHOP.GISELAGRAHAM.COM
£4.99
ADAMS & MACK HANGING DECORATIONS, £15.99 EACH.
WWW.ADAMSANDMACK.COM
£15.99
GISELA GRAHAM LONDON, GREEN
FACETED GLASS OGEE, £4.99
SHOP.GISELAGRAHAM.COM
£34.99
£2,639
£40
COX & COX, SIX LUXURY CRACKLE GLASS DROPS
£40, WWW.COXANDCOX.CO.UK
FATHER CHRISTMAS GONK, £34.99,
CURBOROUGH GIFT SHOP AT
CURBOROUGH COUNTRYSIDE CENTRE.
WWW.CURBOROUGHGIFTSHOP.CO.UK
RANGEMASTER CLASSIC DELUXE 100 DUAL FUEL RANGE
COOKER IN RACING GREEN, £2,639.00, TIPPERS.
WWW.COOKERSANDOVENS.CO.UK
COX & COX, SIX LUXURY FLOCKED SHATTERPOOF BAUBLES, £30
WWW.COXANDCOX.COM
20
REINDEER TEALIGHT HOLDER, £7.50, CURBOROUGH
GIFT SHOP. WWW.CURBOROUGHGIFTSHOP.CO.UK
tatlow carpets
&flooring
RECLAMATION
YOUR RECLAIMED BUILDING & LANDSCAPING MATERIAL SUPPLIERS
20%
OFF
Selected brands in store
(Alternative Flooring, Riviera Home,
Crucial Trading & more.)
Offer valid until
18/12/24
Sorrento by Riviera. Shown in Columbia colour.
(samples available in store to take and try in the home)
@Tatlowcarpetsltd
Tel: 01543 264766
@Tatlow_Carpets
The only flooring company in the Midlands with 80 x 5* reviews
Please see our website for further details www.tatlowcarpets.co.uk
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
WE SELL RECLAIMED BRICKS, BEAMS & NATURAL STONE SLABS
Bricks • Roof Tiles • Quarry Tiles • Natural Stone Walling & Paving • Rockery
• Granite Sets • Cobbles • Stone Troughs • Oak Beams • Cast Iron Radiators
• Lamp Posts • Fire Places • Doors • Chimney Pots • PLUS MUCH MUCH MORE!
Telephone: 0121 308 0554
Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 8.00am - 5.00pm • Saturday 8.00am 9.30am - 12 1.30pm noon
35 Holding, Shirral Drive, Nr Drayton Bassett B78 3EQ
www.fouroaksreclamation.com
www.ebay.co.uk/usr/fouroaksreclamation
www.facebook.com/fouroaksrec
LUXURY KITCHENS
AND BATHROOMS
WHY CHOOSE US...
MON-FRI
7:30AM - 5PM
SATURDAY
8AM - 2PM
Europa Way, Lichfield, WS14 9TZ
01543 440020 | showrooms.tippers.com
LIGHTS4FUN, NOSTALGIC RED GREEN AND GOLD
CHRISTMAS DINING TABLE WITH HANGING WREATH.
WWW.LIGHTS4FUN.CO.UK
RED ROBIN TURTLE MAT, £53.95, TATLOW CARPETS,
LICHFIELD. WWW.TATLOWCARPETS.CO.UK
DUNELM, CLASSIC CHRISTMAS STOCKING, £12
WWW.DUNELM.COM
22
BRAIDED RUG COMPANY, CHRISTMAS TABLEWARE,
www.jaimemagazine.com WWW.BRAIDED-RUG.CO.UK
Lichfield Garden Centre
Christmas
tree tips
IF A REAL CHRISTMAS TREE IS TOP OF
YOUR WISHLIST, BYRON LEWIS, FROM
LICHFIELD GARDEN CENTRE, HAS
SOME TOP TIPS FOR CHOOSING YOUR
FESTIVE CENTREPIECE
Garden centres across the Midlands will
be full of Christmas trees in the coming
weeks, and believe it or not there is an art
to picking the right one.
Firstly, consider how much space you
have. Trees come in all shapes and
sizes, and some have been trimmed to
be ‘slimline’ with a narrower bottom –
choose this type if you’re tight on space.
Then pick your tree variety correctly. The
most popular tree type is the Nordman fir.
These are soft-to-touch trees and classed
as ‘low needle drop’, meaning with the
correct care they will stay looking good
right through to New Year. If your tree is
to be displayed outside, you can still use
Nordmans or choose Norway spruce – the
Norway has that classic Christmas tree
shape, but indoors it can quickly drop
needles. These are better suited to the
colder conditions outside.
Finally, think about how you will hold
your tree. There are many different types
of Christmas tree stand available. Make
sure you have one that will hold water
as in an average home, your Christmas
tree can drink up to three pints of water a
day! Most stands have a built-in reservoir
and bolts which you can tighten to keep
your tree upright. If you already have a
tree stand, it’s well worth taking it to the
garden centre so you can pick a tree with
the right size trunk - otherwise you’ll have
to chop and saw the bottom to fit when
you get home!
Inspired Christmas...
Christmas Shop
NOW OPEN
* NEW theme for 2024 - Gingerbread!
* Lights
* Decorations
* Glass Ornaments
* Artificial Wreaths & Garlands
& lots more!
Real Christmas Trees due in last week
of November...over 400 to choose from!
* Sizes from 4ft to 10ft
* Choose from Nordman or Fraser Fir
* Free netting & carry to car service
* Great range of pot-grown trees too
* Beautiful Home-made wreaths
Coach Trip to Highclere Castle
Thursday 24th July 2025
A visit to the home of ITV Drama Downton Abbey.
Explore the staterooms & see behind the scenes where
much of the programme is filmed.
Price includes return coach travel, Castle entry plus
entry to the Egyptian Exhibition where you can find out
more about the Earl of Carnarvon's discovery of the
tomb of Tutankhamen!
£79 per person (£71 pp for Garden Club Members)
Join us for complimentary
Mulled Wine & Mince Pies
Available on selected weekends in December
(see website for details)
Join our Garden Club and save money on all your gardening needs...
* Monthly 'Member Weekends' with discounts across the store
* Discount on all our Coach Trips
* £10 One-off joining fee - an ideal Christmas gift!
Fruit Trees, Fruit Bushes & Hedging NOW IN!
* Perfect time to plant while the soil is still warm
* Best selection available in the autumn
* Get a head start in your garden on next spring!
* New season Roses also available
Find us at Curborough Countryside Centre (off Eastern Avenue),
Lichfield. Postcode for your Sat Nav : WS13 8ES.
Open 7 days a week - see website for latest times.
Telephone : 01543 254306
Website : www.lichfieldgardencentre.co.uk
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Celebrating 45 Years of Excellence with
Local Business - JMI Windows & Doors
In this special
interview, we sit
down with Kevin and
Diane Masefield, the
husband-and-wife
team behind JMI, to
discuss the company’s
incredible 45-year
journey, how the
window and door
replacement market
has evolved, and
how JMI continues
to thrive as a familyrun
business while
expanding its service
offerings.
JMI has been around since 1979, which is a
huge achievement. Can you tell us how it all
began?
Kevin: It all started with my father, John Masefield,
back in 1979. JMI was a family-run, independent
business from day one, and it’s something we’ve
kept close to our hearts as we’ve grown. Our
first premises was a modest unit within a Garden
Centre on Aldridge Road, Streetly. As the business
expanded, we needed more space, so in 1984,
we moved to a showroom in Gravelly Lane,
Erdington. Eventually, we took over two adjacent
shops to create a large, triple-fronted showroom.
Diane: In 1996, we made another big move to
our current 3000 sq ft showroom in Belwell
Lane, Mere Green, Sutton Coldfield. The
space was an old woodworking factory, pretty
much derelict at the time, but we spent a year
refurbishing it and transforming it into what it is
today. Now, everything is under one roof, from
sales and admin to storage and surveys. That’s
really helped streamline our communication and
maintain the high level of customer service we
pride ourselves on.
How have you seen the window and door
replacement market change over the past 45
years?
Kevin: The market has changed dramatically. One
of the biggest early shifts has been the move away
from traditional timber windows to uPVC and
aluminium. These materials are low-maintenance,
longer-lasting, and much more energy-efficient. We
responded to that demand by offering a broad
range of modern, thermally efficient products that
our customers can rely on.
Diane: Energy efficiency has also really taken
centre stage, especially with double and
triple glazing becoming the standard. Building
regulations now require much higher thermal
performance, and that’s where we’ve adapted. We
provide cutting-edge windows that not only look
great but also help homeowners reduce their
energy bills and carbon footprint.
24
www.jaimemagazine.com
JMI has clearly evolved with the market.
Can you tell us more about how your
services have expanded over the years?
Kevin: Absolutely. While we’ve always
specialised in window and door replacement,
we’ve grown to offer much more. We provide
garage door fitting services, and we build
conservatories and orangeries for customers
looking to extend their living spaces.
Additionally, we install warm and lantern
roofs, which are perfect for improving energy
efficiency in both new builds and existing
extensions.
Diane: We’ve also moved into building
outdoor living structures, like verandas
and garden rooms, which are becoming
increasingly popular. By offering these
additional services, we can help our customers
enhance their homes in a variety of ways, all
while maintaining the same high standards of
quality and service.
What’s the latest trend you’re seeing in
your 45th year?
Kevin: Aside from the obvious - bi-fold doors,
one of the most exciting trends we’re seeing
is internal steel-look doors. They’ve become
incredibly popular, and you see them on all
the top home-improvement TV shows. These
doors give a sleek, industrial feel while letting
in lots of light, making them perfect for openplan
living spaces. We’ve had a lot of interest in
these, and they’re a great way to add style and
character to any home.
What do you think has been key to JMI’s
success over the years?
Diane: I think staying true to our roots as
a family business has been really important.
We’ve always put customer service at the
forefront of what we do, making sure every
step of the process is handled with care. That
personal touch is something our customers
really appreciate.
Kevin: It’s also about adapting to change. The
market has evolved, and we’ve made sure to
evolve with it. From introducing the latest
in energy-efficient and secure windows to
keeping up with modern design trends, we’ve
always stayed ahead of the curve.
After 45 years, what’s next for JMI?
Kevin: We’re always looking at ways to
innovate and improve. The industry continues
to change, and we plan to keep adapting while
holding onto the values that have guided us
from the start.
Diane: We’re excited about the future. Our
showroom is constantly evolving with new
products, and we’re committed to providing
the best for our customers. As a family
business, we look forward to continuing our
journey with the same dedication and passion
that’s defined us for the last 45 years.
Celebrate With Us! 45 Years in Business Open Morning
Saturday 30th November, 10:00am - 2:00pm | Refreshments and fizz!!
All visitors will he entered into a raffle to win £250 of Marks & Spencer vouchers.
11 Belwell Lane, The Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield B74 4AA
Tel: 0121 323 5070 | E: enquiries@jmiwindows.co.uk | www.jmiwindows.co.uk
www.jaimemagazine.com
25
GIFT GUIDE
Give the gift of joy
IT’S TIME TO START THINKING ABOUT THE PERFECT GIFTS FOR YOUR FAVOURITE PEOPLE THIS
CHRISTMAS. IT CAN BE A CHALLENGE TO PICK THE PERFECT PRESENT FOR EACH OF YOUR NEAREST AND
DEAREST, BUT WHETHER YOUR SOMEONE SPECIAL IS A FANATICAL FOODIE, A GREEN-FINGERED GARDENER
OR A STYLE MAVEN, WE HAVE YOU COVERED WITH OUR CURATED GIFT GUIDE. AND WITH AN ARRAY OF
FANTASTIC SHOPPING DESTINATIONS, QUALITY LOCAL RETAILERS AND FABULOUS VENUES AROUND THE
MIDLANDS, THERE IS PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITY TO SHOP LOCAL THIS YEAR AS YOU TICK OFF YOUR GIFT LIST.
£46
£55
CRUSH CASHMERE FINGERLESS GLOVES, £55,
HARVEY NICHOLS. WWW.HARVEYNICHOLS.COM
SMALL TOGGLE OLIVE TOTE, £46, PEONY AND MINT
AT HEART OF THE COUNTRY SHOPPING VILLAGE.
WWW.PEONYANDMINT.COM
£149.95
RUFUS AND TED ROCKING HORSE, £149.95, LITTLE
BIRD TOLD ME. WWW.LITTLEBIRDTOLDME.COM
TREAT THE FOODIE IN YOUR
LIFE TO A VOUCHER FOR THYME KITCHEN
AT CURBOROUGH COUNTRYSIDE CENTRE, WHERE
YOU CAN ENJOY BREAKFAST, BRUNCH, AFTERNOON
TEA AND SUNDAY ROASTS, AS WELL AS PRIVATE HIRE.
WWW.THYMEKITCHEN.CO.UK
£540
£899
£25
26
FOREST GLASS CANDLE HOLDER, £25,
PAUL MARTYN FURNITURE AT HEART OF THE
COUNTRY SHOPPING VILLAGE.
WWW.PAULMARTYNFURNITURE.CO.UK
18CT YELLOW GOLD PLATED SILVER
EARRINGS SET WITH WATER OPAL A
ND BLUE TOPAZ, £540, ALLEN BRO
WN JEWELLERY AT HEART OF THE
COUNTRY SHOPPING VILLAGE.
WWW.ALLENBROWNJEWELLERY.CO.UK
www.jaimemagazine.com
KITCHENAID EVERGREEN DESIGN SERIES
ARTISAN TILT HEAD 47L STAND MIXER WITH
UNIQUE WALNUT WOODEN BOWL, £899.
WWW.KITCHENAID.CO.UK
Curborough Gift Shop
GIFTS & CARDS FOR ALL OCCASIONS
ART FOR ALL
Browse Our Large and Diverse Range
of Art and Sculpture at
Eden Gallery
Curborough Countryside Centre
As specialists in Original and Limited Edition artwork,
we feature a comprehensive range of framed art from
established international artists. Together with our large and
varied range of art, we now stock a selection of affordable
sculptures by talented sculptors from across the UK.
Large selection of smaller framed artwork – perfect for that
unusual and inspired Christmas gift.
Our charming gift shop welcomes an ever increasing number of
customers through its doors. We stock a wide range of gifts, jigsaws,
scarves, handbags and accessories, candles and toiletries, stationery
greeting cards, gift wrap and lots more.
CURBOROUGH HALL FARM COUNTRYSIDE CENTRE
TEL: 01543 268491 OR 07885 387640
OPENING HOURS: 10AM – 4PM TUESDAY TO SUNDAY
WWW.CURBOROUGHGIFTSHOP.CO.UK
FOLLOW US
Resting – Framed Ltd Edition by Alex McGarry
(Framed Size 62cm x 54cm) Price: £225
Take a look at our website to view more of our featured artist’s work
Eden Gallery, The Hexagon Centre, Curborough
Countryside Centre, Watery Lane, Lichfield, WS13 8ES
Telephone: 01543 268393 - www.edenartandframing.co.uk
Opening hours: Wed - Sun 10.00am - 4.00pm. (Tuesday by appointment only)
Dinner with Dan Lee
Christmas Party Nights
Supper Club favourite,
Dan Lee will be joining
us at Thyme Kitchen
once again for a very
special tasting menu on
Thursday December 19th!
We have been working
with Dan since his win
on MasterChef: The
Professionals in 2021 –
if you love South-East
Asian influenced dishes,
this ones for you!
Let’s get these Christmas
celebrations started!
MENU THURSDAY 19TH DECEMBER
SNACKS
Oyster with sanbai and spring onion
Mushroom and tarragon tart
Wonton | Crispy pork and prawn wonton,
Rice noodles, dashi and spring onion dressing, pickle
Bread
Mantou | fried bao, chilli sambal butter
Beef Rendang | pulled beef rendang, crispy potato,
pickled shallots
Chicken Panang | poached chicken thigh, sweet bell
pepper, charred onion, thai, jasmine rice
Cremosa | chocolate cremosa, green szechuan,
prickly ash oil, custard crumb
£85 per head | Vegetarian menu available
Are you planning a get
together with friends,
family, or colleagues?
Why not make it extra
special by booking
one of our festive
evenings on Friday
22nd November, Friday
13th and Friday 20th
December.
Enjoy a warm and
welcoming atmosphere
as you savour seasonal
dishes designed to get
you in the festive mood!
STARTERS
Chicken & black pudding terrine, toast
Torched mackerel, rich tomato sauce, cherry tomato,
Parsnip soup, parsnip crisps, honey, creme fraiche
MAINS
Roast Turkey, roast potatoes, seasonal veg,
pigs in blankets, gravy
Salmon, crushed herby potatoes, green beans,
spinach, white wine sauce
Beetroot parcel, roast potatoes, seasonal veg, gravy
Wild mushroom and truffle risotto, parmesan crisp
DESSERTS
Xmas pudding, brandy custard
Bailey’s creme brulée, cinnamon shortbread
Irish Coffee with a warm mince pie
Vegan chocolate and cherry mousse
Cheeseboard + £4 supplement
2 COURSES £26 OR 3 COURSES £32
www.saucesupperclub.co.uk
www.thymekitchen.co.uk
MOOR HALL HOTEL AND SPA IN SUTTON COLDFIELD OFFERS
GIFT VOUCHERS TO TREAT THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE.
WWW.MOORHALLHOTEL.CO.UK
£50
DRAGONFLY SWARM EVERYDAY POUCH,
£50, THE CURIOUS DEPARTMENT.
WWW.THECURIOUSDEPARTMENT.COM
£13.99
KEW WOODEN HANDLED BYPASS
SECATEURS, £23, ROYAL BOTANIC
GARDENS KEW SHOP. SHOP.KEW.ORG
£18
BERRY WREATH MUG BY BELLY BUTTON
DESIGNS, £13.99, CURBOROUGH GIFT
SHOP AT CURBOROUGH COUNTRYSIDE CENTRE.
WWW.CURBOROUGHGIFTSHOP.CO.UK
£23
VA GIN LIQUEUR, £18 EACH. WWW.VAM.AC.UK/SHOP
£16.50
£150
GLASS TREE HURRICANE CANDLE HOLDER,
£16.50, NEEDWOOD LIVING, ALREWAS.
WWW.NEEDWOODLIVING.CO.UK
LEAN ON ME WHEN YOU’RE NOT STRONG FRAMED
LIMITED EDITION BY SAM TOFT, £150, EDEN GALLERY AT
CURBOROUGH COUNTRYSIDE CENTRE.
WWW.EDENARTANDFRAMING.CO.UK
SPOIL YOUR LOVED ONE WITH VOUCHER FOR A FINE
DINING EXPERIENCE AT LICHFIELD’S SAUCE SUPPER CLUB.
WWW.SAUCESUPPERCLUB.CO.UK
28
www.jaimemagazine.com
Visit us at Christmas
Discover the charm of unique shops and boutiques,
a woodland walk, and three independent restaurants
The Christmas Barn
a dedicated Christmas Shop
Father Christmas Grotto
Crumb and Play in December
Christmas Gingerbread
Find the 10 Christmas Gingerbread
Men hiding in the fairy woods
Late Night Opening
5pm-8pm 6th December
Father Christmas meet and greet,
Christmas choir, street food, and more
heartofthecountryvillage.com
Swinfen, Lichfield. WS14 9QR
Newsletter
sign up
FOOD & DRINK
An immersive
dining experience
BIRMINGHAM’S LARGEST RESTAURANT, VARANASI IS A WELCOME BEACON OF OPULENCE, OFFERING
FINE DINING AMIDST THE PARTY VIBES OF BROAD STREET, AS AMY NORBURY DISCOVERS
In a city renowned for its Indian
cuisine, Varanasi stands out as one of
Birmingham’s most impressive venues. It
is, in fact, the city’s largest restaurant; a
cavernous space set around a large atrium
seating a mammoth 350 covers over three
floors.
Situated on Broad Street, in the heart of
the city centre, it’s in an area awash with
revellers enjoying the Brummie nightlife.
But step inside Varanasi and you’re a
world away from party central.
An imposing door swings open to reveal
an atmospherically lit walkway lined with
golden Bhuddas leading to the first bar
area. A flowing water feature transports
you to a tropical haven as you descend from street
level into the sumptuous depths.
The vast restaurant is dripping in grandeur, from
golden chandeliers to opulent fabrics, gilded mirrors
to ornate centrepieces at every turn, while burning
incense gives off a deliciously heady scent. A
labyrinth of cocktail bars, quiet lounging areas and
exclusive private dining rooms gives way to a vast
dining space which was rapidly filling up when we
arrived for our 7pm table - always a good sign.
We were led to a cosy table à deux and proffered
menus to peruse, while the obligatory poppadoms
and chutneys - mango mint and a heavenly tomato
garlic number - were just enough to satisfy our
appetites as we sipped an arrival drink and settled
into our evening.
The cocktails are certainly on the pricier side, but
my rose petal martini - a heady concoction of Beluga
Noble vodka, Kwai Feh liqueur, lychee juice, lime
juice, and rose and lavender syrups adorned with
dried rose petals - at £12 was a tasty little number
indeed.
There’s also a sizeable wine list with plenty of
offerings by the glass, including Champagne, and a
good selection of bottled lagers as well as Kingfisher
on tap for the purists.
Varanasi’s menu is a constantly evolving repertoire,
from carefully curated classics to contemporary
reworkings of old favourites, with a few seasonal
offerings thrown into the mix. While there were
plenty of familiar dishes, the menu offered a far
more refined selection - none of your standard curry
house fayre here. So we were happy to take some
recommendations from our friendly, knowledgeable
waiter.
When it comes to starters, tandoori and tikka
offerings vye with signature kebabs and mouthwatering
seafood. I plumped for the organic salmon
tikki, £15, with caramelised pineapple relish - which,
it turned out, also came with a sizeable helping of
30
www.jaimemagazine.com
culinary theatre. The salmon was served on a huge
platter which was imparted with plumes of smoke;
it was certainly a dramatic offering. As impressive
as it looked, the dish was also a delicious bite,
beautifully spiced fish cooked to a perfect tender
flake and topped with the sticky sweet relish.
On our waiter’s recommendation, my husband
opted for the desi chicken lollipops, £13, which
were a firm favourite of the night. Tender fried
chicken packed a huge flavour punch, with a kick
of spice adding a delicious tingle - it was an ample
portion but we could’ve happily eaten more.
Onto the main event, and again the menu features
a whole host of mouth-watering options. My
husband was tempted by the Nawabi chicken
biryani, £25, but on recommendation chose
Varanasi’s signature chicken curry, £22. It was
a good choice indeed, with a rich, thick gravy
packing plenty of heat and plentiful tender chicken
pieces - real hearty, homestyle fayre.
My lamb karahi, £22, was however the star of
the show. Now, I love a good lamb curry and this
was one of the best I’ve ever eaten. The meat was
perfectly succulent and melt-in-the-mouth, falling
apart under the slightest pressure from my fork,
while the sauce was an explosion of flavour; rich
tomato, fiery ginger, warming spice - delicious.
Fluffy pilau rice, £6, is a must, and a beautifully
thin and crisp garlic naan slathered with butter, £6,
was perfect for scooping up that delectable gravy.
And as fans of Indian veggie dishes, we couldn’t
resist a couple of extra sides - bombay aloo, £10,
and cauliflower and peas, £9, were both worthy
accompaniments.
Now, after that veritable feast, dessert wasn’t
strictly necessary. But in the interests of offering
a full picture of Varanasi’s offerings, we opted
to give them a try. I do love a traditional gulab
jamun, £10, but was looking for something lighter
to finish the meal. So coconut pannacotta with
mango and passionfruit, £10, fit the bill nicely
- rich and creamy, with just enough wobble. My
husband went for the kesar mango rasmalai,
£10, an indulgent milk-based pud flavoured with
cardamom and saffron which he enjoyed although
couldn’t quite finish off.
From the opulent surroundings to the elegant vibes,
Varanasi offers an immersive dining experience
and a feast for the senses.
The service was impeccable throughout, attentive
and friendly without being intrusive. With a
carefully curated menu and attention to detail at
every turn, it’s a dining destination for those who
enjoy the finer things.
www.jaimemagazine.com
31
FOOD & DRINK
A good spud
A TASTY TEATIME TREAT OR LUNCHBOX STAPLE, THE HUMBLE JACKET SPUD HAS MADE
A VIRAL SENSATION OF TAMWORTH FOODIE BEN NEWMAN - AKA SPUD MAN - WHO
REVEALS THE SECRET TO THE PERFECT POTATO IN HIS NEW COOKBOOK
SPUD MAN BEN NEWMAN IS A VIRAL SENSATION
Imagine being the purveyor of such a superlative spud
that customers traverse oceans just to try your wares,
and millions of people across the globe regularly tune
in to watch you serve up a perfect potato. Well, that’s
the somewhat strange reality for Tamworth caterer
Ben Newman, known across the TikTok-verse as
Spud Man.
From his trusty van in St Editha’s Square, in the heart
of Tamworth, Ben serves up what is widely reputed
to be the best potato around, with customers traveling
from near and far to taste Spud Man’s
s-mashing goods. Spud fans from as far
afield as Australia, Malaysia and South
Africa regularly make the pilgrimage to
Tamworth for their spud fix, with Ben
documenting spud van life across his wildly
popular TikTok account.
With an army of social media followers
and a lavish pink mohican, Spud Man has
turned the baked potato into an artform –
and now he’s only too happy to teach the
rest of us the secret of a good spud.
Ben’s debut cookbook, Spud Man’s
Spudtacular Baked Potato Cookbook,
features 40 simple - and simply delicious
- potato-based recipes for fans to try at
home. From delicious baked potato combos to various
spin-off dishes, this book is more than just recipes – it’s
a lifestyle. It’s about embracing the humble spud and
unleashing its full flavour potential. Mouth-watering
Lebanese chicken shawarma, the currywurst jacket,
chorizo shakshuka, pizza loaded potato skins, poutinestyle
cheesy spuds and more showcase the versatility of
Spud Man’s signaturebaked potato. Whether you’re a
seasoned spud fan or a curious newbie, this book will
have you baking up a storm.
Father-of-nine Ben’s meteoric rise to fame as an
unlikely influencer has helped to put Tamworth
firmly on the foodie map. He has also been awarded
Freedom of the Town in Tamworth, where he lives
with wife Sarah, AKA Spud Wife, in recognition of
his entrepreneurship,
innovation, and courage.
Spud Man’s
Spudtacular Baked
Potato Cookbook,
priced £12.99, is out
now, published by
HarperNorth. Follow
Ben on TikTok @
SpudMan
A SIGNATURE LOADED SPUD
32
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Visit
www.varanasi.ukreservations@varanasi.uk
VARANAA A A
FOOD & DRINK
Game on!
Welcome to J’AIME
LICHFIELD CHEF JACK DUBBERLEY, OWNER OF FINE DINING EXPERIENCE DUBBERLEY
DELICIOUS, BRINGS US THE BEST OF SEASONAL AND LOCAL PRODUCE TO USE RIGHT NOW.
THIS MONTH, HE TAKES A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE WITH AN EXPLORATION OF GAME
34
The Glorious Twelfth is something of
a
Happy
milestone
New
in
Year
the
to
foodie
all of
calendar.
our readers
The
and
12th advertisers of August - we is hope famous your as 2024 the is day off which to a flying
EDITOR: AMY NORBURY
marks start! 2023 the start was a of year shooting of change season for for J’AIME, red
EDITOR@JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM
grouse
seeing us
in
move
the UK
to bi-monthly
and, in the
publication,
weeks that
and
follow, these lean and tasty birds are in
we hope 2024 will enable us to continue growing
demand as cooks aim to make the most of
this and seasonal bringing treat. your favourite local luxury lifestyle
As magazine we head directly deeper to into your autumn, door every game other month!
season
Huge thanks,
gets into
as
full
always,
swing,
go to
heralding
our advertisers
the
for
arrival of a variety of wild meats on
their continued support, and our readers for picking
restaurant menus up and down our isle.
And up their while copy the and deep, engaging rich flavours with our mean content.
ADVERTISING: JAN ASHLEY
game This month can often we’ve be chatted a rather to acquired the team taste, behind The LICHFIELD CHEF JACK DUBBERLEY
ADVERTISING@JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM
it Apiarist can present gin - husband the opportunity and wife to Alex explore and Natalie 07388 335 931
some deliciously hearty seasonal fayre and
Conti - about the launch of their new distillery in
the new dish is venison haunch and flank, slowcooked
for about a day-and-a-half in a water bath
delectable flavour pairings, says Lichfield chef Jack
Dubberley. Lichfield’s historic city centre. Born from a passion
with some red wine to bring out the flavour.
“Now for beekeeping is the time and to inspired give game by their a try,” Lichfield says Jack. “Venison can sometimes be quite tough so this
“We surroundings, do find that Alex game and Natalie’s is quite divisive award-winning - people slow-cooking method ensures it cooks beautifully.
either love it or hate it - but those that love it really
spirits are making waves in the drinks world - and We flake the meat down and reduce the cooking
want to see it on our menu. If you’re willing to try stock to create a rich, sticky ragu. It’s simple but
it, finding I think fans you’ll around be pleasantly the globe! surprised.”
refined. We pair the venison with a celeriac foam
Jack On the has foodie been working front, our on resident a new chef venison Jack dish which to bring a lightness to the dish and add some
he Dubberley, hopes will of convert Lichfield’s some Dubberley undecided Delicious, diners. talks pickled DESIGN: elderberries DESIGN@JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM
and elderberry balsamic then
“Venison is a great place to start with game,” Jack
all things rhubarb and celebrates the season’s hero finish CONTRIBUTORS: with puffed potato. JACK It’s DUBBERLEY, like a really refined
says. “Because it’s often so lean, if you’re doing a shepherd’s GREG PALETHORPE
pie.
steak produce, it needs while to we’ve be served also got very your rare Valentine’s which again and
“Game J’AIME and IS elderberries PUBLISHED is BY a fantastic ASHBURY combination,
puts Mother’s people Day off. gift And inspiration I wanted covered to move with away our from gift a and PUBLICATIONS perfect at this time LIMITED. of year while elderberries
game guides, terrine packed to with create ideas something from local more businesses. refined. So are still in season.”
With all of your usual favourites celebrating interior If you’re planning on cooking your own game, visit
a butcher rather than relying on supermarket fayre,
style, fashion fixes and beauty tips, as well as a
says Check Jack. us out online at:
round up of some of the best entertainment the “The WWW.JAIMEMAGAZINE.COM
venison you buy in the supermarket tends
Midlands has to offer this winter, we hope there’s to be very lean, so it’s easy to overcook because it
plenty here for you to enjoy
doesn’t Find have any us protection on on it,” says Jack. “So
visit your butcher and ensure the cut you’re getting
If you enjoy what you read in this issue, then why
is suitable for how you want to cook it.”
/JAIMEMAGAZINE
not help us to spread the word? As well as being Another seasonal treat which graces many a menu
delivered directly to homes in selected postcodes at this time
@JAIMEMAGAZINE
of year is duck, and Jack recommends
across the area, you can pick J’AIME up free of plumping for Aylesbury duck particularly from
VENISON IS A GOOD INTRODUCTION
Creedy Carver
charge in major supermarkets around the Midlands,
@JAIMEMAGAZINE
which, he says, is the best in the UK.
TO GAME, SAYS JACK
“It’s the duck that a lot of top chefs use, because of
as well as read the whole thing - and plenty more! -
online at www.jaimemagazine.com
www.jaimemagazine.com
FOOD & DRINK
the amount of fat it has on it,” says Jack. “They’re
a lot bigger than the duck you’ll get in the
supermarkets so they’re much more tender; the fat
melts when you cook it.
“People often think you need to cook duck in a
hot pan, like beef or lamb, but you actually need
to put it into a cold pan, skin side down with a
bit of salt on the top of the skin, and let it render
down slowly over a gentle heat. You’ll see the
liquid fat running into the pan so keep emptying
that out; you’ll probably want to render it down
for around 10 to 20 minutes. Then turn it over,
add a knob of butter, take it out of the pan and
roast in the oven at 180C for four to eight minutes
depending on size before resting for a good 20
minutes or more.”
As an intermediate main course on their recent
Dinner Dates menus, Jack has been serving his
sliced duck breast with a luxuriously rich kohlrabi
puree, cherries or elderberries, and puffed wild
rice with duck jus.
A BEAUTIFUL DUCK AND CHERRY DISH
Gingerbread
INGREDIENTS:
125g unsalted butter
175g brown sugar
350g plain flour
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp cinnamon
1 egg
4 tbsp golden syrup
METHOD:
Gingerbread is a delicious treat, perfect at
this time of year, either as part of a dessert
or just on its own.
Cream together the butter and sugar until
light and fluffy, making sure you scrape the
bowl down so everything is well combined.
Mix together the dry ingredients and add
to the butter and sugar, then lightly beat
together the egg and golden syrup and mix
in until it comes together in a soft dough.
Chill before rolling out on a lightly floured
surface to around 1cm thickness then cut
into whatever shape you fancy and pop
onto a lined baking tray - it’s great for festive
biscuits! We bake it as a complete tray and
then break into a crumb to use in desserts.
Bake in a preheated oven at 170C for 15
to 25 minutes, depending on whether you
prefer a softer or snappier gingerbread.
We’re currently using gingerbread crumb
on our new sea buckthorn dessert; sea
buckthorn is a coastal berry with a creamy,
citrus flavour. It goes really well with fish,
but works perfectly in a crossover course on
our eight-course menus. We’ve done a sea
buckthorn curd made with sea buckthorn
juice, with a yoghurt and buttermilk
sorbet and gingerbread to add texture.
Gingerbread also pairs really well with apple
for a seasonal dessert.
36
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Festive experiences at
New Hall Hotel and Spa
A VISIT TO NEW HALL HOTEL AND SPA IN SUTTON COLDFIELD IS
ALWAYS A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE - ESPECIALLY AT CHRISTMASTIME
Originally built as a hunting lodge by the Earl of
Warwick in the 13th century, New Hall now stands as
England’s oldest listed inhabited moated house. This
four-star hotel, renowned for its beautiful weddings and
rejuvenating spa, also offers a warm welcome to locals
seeking to indulge in afternoon tea or Sunday roast.
As the festive season approaches, New Hall is also
gearing up for Christmas. For those looking to indulge
in some festive cheer, the hotel’s website features a
lineup of exciting Christmas events. Whether you’re
planning a winter escape or getting into the festive
spirit, New Hall Hotel and Spa offers a memorable
experience for all.
“Our luxury hotel makes the perfect venue for your
festive celebrations in Birmingham. Whether you want
to join one of our Christmas Party Nights or host your
own private party night or private dinner, our team
is ready to welcome you,” says Olivia Peach, General
Manager.
A highlight of the festive programme is the elegant
New Year’s Eve black tie dinner celebration. Begin the
evening with a Champagne and canapés reception,
setting the tone for a night of indulgence. Savour a
sumptuous five-course tasting menu, thoughtfully
curated to delight your senses, followed by tea, coffee,
and petit fours. Enjoy this culinary experience in
the historic setting of New Hall’s Grand Chamber,
adorned with stunning stained-glass windows, fine oak
panelling and an ornate ceiling
After dinner, a live band will continue the celebrations
in the restaurant and, as the clock strikes midnight,
dance your way into the New Year in the elegant
surroundings of this historic hotel. It’s the perfect way
to welcome 2025 with style, sophistication and joy.
Visit www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/newhall
for more information and to book your festive
experience.
www.jaimemagazine.com
37
FOOD & DRINK
A new dining destination
BROWNS BRASSERIE AND BAR IN SUTTON PARK IS SET TO OPEN ITS DOORS
FOLLOWING A GRAND £1.5 MILLION REFURBISHMENT
BROWNS BRASSERIE IS COMING TO
SUTTON PARK THIS MONTH
Browns Brasserie and Bar Sutton Park will officially
open its doors on November 21, following an
extensive £1.5 million refurbishment - creating 50
new jobs in the local area.
Previously a Toby Carvery restaurant, the 18th
century millhouse has been respectfully renovated to
pay homage to the Grade II listed building’s history,
while introducing Browns Brasserie’s relaxed and
elegant interiors.
General Manager Danny Folcarelli said: “The
building has been totally transformed, bringing back
to life all of the original features through a careful and
well-planned restoration process to create a beautiful
new venue.”
Original features will stay in place, such as the 17th
century 12-panel studded front door that was brought
from Worcester Cathedral, and the old mill’s leat still
runs through the cellar to this day.
The new restaurant interiors draw inspiration from
luxe art deco aesthetics, with a captivating blend of
opulent textures, inviting hues of calming blues and
warming orange-reds, among sophisticated
finishes. From the standalone cocktail bar to the
expansive, light-filled dining areas, the restaurant
is the ideal setting for a drink, pre- or post-dinner
relaxing as well as all-day
dining.
The restaurant opens in
time for the Browns festive
menu launch, with indulgent
dishes designed specially for
the holiday season including
Browns festive turkey with
cranberry stuffing, pigs in
blankets, garlic thyme roast
potatoes, maple roast carrots
and parsnips, mulled wine
braised red cabbage, shaved
Brussels sprouts with chestnuts
and red wine jus.
A perfect way to celebrate
the festive season, the Browns
Festive Afternoon Tea is a
real treat. The tea starts with
a selection of delicious seasonal savouries before
warm scones, clotted cream and blackcurrant and
strawberry jams. Mini cakes and puddings are sure
to delight including mixed fruit Christmas cake,
mince pie crème brûlée, mini carrot and orange cake,
and Lemon meringue tart - all served with planet
conscious, natural teas from Good Earth Tea. Add
an extra sparkle with the Champagne Afternoon
Tea or Pink Champagne Afternoon Tea with a glass
of Moët & Chandon Impérial Champagne or Moët
& Chandon Rosé Champagne. Also available is the
children’s festive menus and the gluten free festive
menu, accredited by Coeliac UK.
BROWNS BRASSERIE
38
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JOIN US AT
BROWNS BRASSERIE
& BAR SUTTON
OPENING 21 NOVEMBER 2024
JOIN US FOR A
MAGICAL CHRISTMAS
BOOKINGS & INFORMATION
TEL: 0121 354 2458
WWW.BROWNS-RESTAURANTS.CO.UK
@BROWNSSUTTONCOLDFIELD
TRAVEL
An Italian trilogy
KAYLEIGH HODSON, FROM RB COLLECTION IN LICHFIELD, VISITS ROME,
FLORENCE AND VENICE BY RAIL IN A TRULY MEMORABLE ITALIAN ADVENTURE
ROME’S MAGNIFICENT COLOSSEUM
Italy has always been at the top of my wish list. So
when the opportunity came up to discover three of
the most iconic Italian cities in one trip, I jumped
at the chance to see what it is really like travelling
around the country by train.
After our early start into Rome, we were whisked
away by a private chauffeur to our beautiful hotel
in the centre of the ancient city. The location was
perfect, just a five-minute walk away from the
magnificent Pantheon with a further short walk
for the main tourist attractions such as the Trevi
Fountain and Spanish Steps.
In the other direction was the Vatican and again
another direction the Forum and Colosseum. A good
pair of shoes is definitely needed for Rome and, of
course, it really is best explored by foot as there is so
much to see at every turn.
The city was buzzing with tourists, even in February,
when one would expect it to be a quieter time for
a city break. Tourists will visit here all year round,
whatever the weather, to take in the history of this
famous city.
Summers can be very hot so late spring or autumn
are great times to visit with more comfortable
temperatures. Visit mid-week for less crowds and
away from main public holidays.
At RB we work hard to add in special ‘RB Moments’
which could be anything from private museum tours
to restaurant recommendations. We love to let you
know about little gems where you can dine and
enjoy local cuisine and when we arrived in Rome, we
were treated to just that with typical Roman dishes
in a 2,000-year-old theatre, just around the corner
from the hotel. The deep-fried artichoke was a first
for me and delicious, definitely one to recommend.
Depending how much detail you want to go into
at the various historic landmarks and museums, I
would say three or four nights is enough in Rome.
You could even make the short journey out to the
coast for a change of scenery and to break up the
trip as you wish.
2025 will be an exciting year in Rome for luxury
travel with the launch of the new La Dolce Vita
Orient Express, and their first hotel, La Minerva,
under the re-launched Orient-Express brand.
The next stop on this Italian trilogy was Florence.
We were treated to a look around the Club
Executive lounge at the train station which would
start your onward journey in style. We travelled to
Florence in ‘Prima’ (First Class) which included a
40
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snack and a drink and was a very comfortable journey.
On arrival we were lavished with a
Tuscan feast, and we enjoyed tasting some of the local
delicacies. The chef came out to greet us and talked us
through each course, my favourite being the T-bone steak
which is a typical Tuscan dish but was coated with a
turmeric and lemon sauce - innovative and excellent!
Next was a walking tour of Florence to point out some
of the main attractions. I have to say the Duomo, (the
fourth-largest in the world and dating back to the 13th
century), absolutely blew me away. The craftsmanship of
the building itself was exquisite and the history behind it
fantastic. Located at the rear are the Gates of Paradise,
this is just a replica of the bronze doors that were created
in 1401, as the original was moved in the 1990 to Mueso
dell’Opera to protect and preserve it.
As we continued to walk around Florence, the feel of this
city was so different to Rome. There was a much more
relaxed feel to it, you could amble around slowly and
freely whereas in Rome it felt a lot busier.
I buried myself in the history of the city and was
captivated by the statues outside the Uffizi Gallery, a great
way to end a walk around. I was particularly in awe of
the statue depicting the beheading of Medusa (1554) by
Benvenuto Cellini, an incredible reminder of the city’s
deep mythological history.
Other ‘RB Moments’ in Florence included gelato on the
Ponte Vecchio and a walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo -
the best free view of Florence perched on top of the hill
to the south of the River Arno.
In 2025, Florence will once again be the nearest city to
stay to visit Tuscany to watch Andrea Bocelli’s famous
annual concert in his hometown of Lajatico. Next year
his son, Matteo Bocelli, will perform a couple of nights
ENJOY A RELAXING AMBLE AROUND FABULOUS FLORENCE
PERSEUS WITH THE HEAD OF MEDUSA, FLORENCE
later at the same venue, making it the perfect double bill!
RB has trips already on sale for this unique event so do
get in touch.
The final day of the tour took us to Venice, last but
certainly not least as this is my favourite destination.
As many will know, Venice is so unique and different
from anywhere else in the world and just captures the
imagination from the second you arrive.
We travelled in Club Executive this time with Trenitalia.
I have to say this was a wonderfully relaxing way to travel
from Florence to Venice, and made the journey seem like
no time at all. The rail system was efficient and made
this Italian trilogy such an
enjoyable experience.
We were whisked to our hotel
in a matter of minutes via
private water taxi (another
special ‘RB Moment’ and
must for our clients to
experience). We were staying
right on the Grand Canal, the
perfect place to base yourself
and get out and get lost in the
winding streets.
Venetian cuisine is heavily
inspired by the waters the
118 islands sit on. The fish
market was nearby the hotel
and were treated to a few
local delicacies to taste as a
culinary welcome to Venetian
culture. The seafood risotto
was particularly excellent
42
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Christmas2024-Jaime.qxp_Layout 1 01/11/2024 10:42 Page 1
There’s plenty to do in Tamworth this Christmas to help make your
Christmas extra special. The fun officially starts with the Christmas lights
switch on in the castle grounds, on Saturday 23 November which includes Bert
& Gerts Festive Market and entertainment from 12noon, with the switch on at
5pm. The free gingerbread trail also starts then, followed by all sorts of festive
shows and events throughout the town.
Christmas Lights
Switch On
23 Nov
Castle Grounds
Castle by
Candlelight
7-8 Dec
Castle
Santa’s
Christmas Castle
7,8,14 &15 Dec
Castle
The Father Christmas Show
19-21 Dec
Assembly Rooms
Santa’s Festive Village
20-22 Dec
Castle Grounds
Festive
Textile Wreath
& Watercolour
Workshops
30 Nov & 1 Dec
Castle
Santa Paws
21 Dec
Castle Stables
Gingerbread Trail
23 Nov-23 Dec
Town
Centre
Festive Films
& Christmas
Concerts
Throughout Dec
Assembly Rooms
FREE
PARKING
Also enjoy free parking at all Tamworth Borough Council
car parks on Saturday 7 & Saturday 21 December.
For more events and details visit our website:
www.visittamworth.co.uk
This information was correct at time of print and is subject to change. Please check the website for latest details.
and complemented with a glass of chilled
Bardolino Rosé.
One of the Venice highlights for me was
a visit to Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
and with our timed tickets we skipped the
queue and headed straight in to beat the
crowds. The palace was thought to have
been built around 1340 and housed all of
the important Doges in Venice, this is where
they would hold court.
Looking around the Bridge of Sighs and
prisons was emotional, and I could only
imagine what it felt like to experience this in
real time, something that has to be seen to
be believed. Timed tickets here are essential
to beat the crowds and something we
arrange for our clients.
The cherry on top of this fabulous Italian
trilogy was a performance of La Triviata.
Set in a small palazzo, the acoustics of the
opera were at their very best. Moving from
room to room for each act gave a different
dimension to experience. It was powerful
and immersive, even moving some of the
group to tears with its final crescendo!
While Venice is, of course, home to some
wonderful historic landmarks, galleries and
museums, the Biennale is also attracting
visitors to see the various modern art
pavilions focusing on different countries
from around the world.
STAY RIGHT ON THE GRAND CANAL TO
EXPERIENCE THE HEARTBEAT OF VENICE
My MD, Oliver, recently visited and visited
the exhibitions, which run from April to
November. They are a perfect place to visit
for those who may have seen the main sights
before but simply want to experience the
magic of Venice once again.
We arrived at the final morning and just
to finish in style, another private water taxi
straight to the doors of Marco Polo Airport.
There’s nothing quite like seeing Venice fade
into the distance whilst speeding away on a
boat James Bond-style.
VENICE WAS A HIGHLIGHT OF KAYLEIGH’S TRIP
To plan and book your holiday to Rome,
Florence or Venice, or further afield
in Italy, call Kayleigh at RB Collection
on 01543 258631 or email vip@
rbcollection.com. J’AIME reader perk:
Mention J’AIME when you call for your
complimentary timed entry museum
tickets in the city of your choice.
44
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WHAT'S ON
What’s On this Christmas
AS WE HEAD INTO THE FESTIVE SEASON, THERE’S ENTERTAINMENT GALORE TAKING PLACE
ACROSS THE MIDLANDS. FROM TRADITIONAL PANTOS AND CHRISTMAS SHOWS TO FESTIVE
EXPERIENCES, THERE’S PLENTY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY
WHAT: ICE SKATE BIRMINGHAM
WHERE: CENTENARY SQUARE, BIRMINGHAM
WHEN: NOVEMBER 1 TO JANUARY 5
The highly anticipated Ice Skate Birmingham is making its grand return,
offering a magical winter experience right in the heart of Birmingham at
Centenary Square. From November 1 to January 5, visitors can immerse
themselves in a festive wonderland with ice skating, the big wheel
experience, and more.
This year, Ice Skate Birmingham promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring a
covered, weather-proof indoor ice rink. Whether you’re skating with family, friends, or visiting for a group
outing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Each skating session lasts for 45 minutes, and visitors are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes early for
ticket scanning and skate rental. Don’t miss out on this exciting holiday tradition in Birmingham!
Tickets are priced at £15 for adults, £12 for under-12s and students, and £45 for a family ticket for two adults
and two children or one adult and three children. Group booking discounts are also available for parties of 25
or more at £11 per person. For more information visit www.iceskatebirmingham.co.uk
WHAT: A CHRISTMAS CAROL: A GHOST STORY
WHERE: BIRMINGHAM REP
WHEN: NOVEMBER 14 TO JANUARY 5
Mark Gatiss‘ acclaimed retelling of Dickens’ winter ghost story visits
The Rep this Christmas, starring Matthew Cottle as Scrooge and
Rufus Hound as Jacob Marley.
It’s a cold Christmas Eve and mean-spirited miser Ebenezer Scrooge
has an unexpected visit from the spirit of his former business partner
Jacob Marley. Bound in chains as punishment for a lifetime of greed, the
unearthly figure explains it isn’t too late for Scrooge to change his miserly ways in order to escape the
same fate, but first he’ll have to face three more eerie encounters…
Filled with Dickensian, spine-tingling special effects, prepare to be frightened and delighted in equal measure
as you enter the supernatural Victorian world of A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story.
For more information and to book tickets visit www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
WHAT: JACK AND THE BEANSTALK
WHERE: LICHFIELD GARRICK
WHEN: NOVEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 12
This year’s GIANT family pantomime is Jack and the Beanstalk, starring
Lichfield’s legendary Dame Sam Rabone as Dame Trott, returning
favourite Ben Thornton as Billy, and fabulous fairy, Gill Jordan!
Once again, the show will be written by Paul Hendy and produced in
partnership with Evolution, the same team behind eight years of smash
hit pantomimes.
With stunning sets, hilarious comedy, audience participation and breath-taking special effects, Jack
and the Beanstalk promises to be the Garrick’s funniest and most spectacular pantomime ever! This fun-filled
extravaganza is guaranteed to delight all ages. Don’t miss out on the Fe-Fi-Fo-Fun… book today! For more
information and to book tickets visit www.lichfieldgarrick.com
46
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Care Home for elderly ladies
and gentlemen offers a level of
care, community and comfort
that is second to none.
We are an independently
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have been a highly regarded
part of the community for
over 30 years. Offering 24-
hour care, our fully trained
staff work together to
communicate with residents
and ensure personal care
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Please get in touch to find out
more about our care.
191 Walsall Road, Lichfield, Staffs, WS13 8AQ
Tel: 01543 415223
Email: contact@rosemarylodge.co.uk
Website: www.rosemarylodge.co.uk
WHAT: THE BOOK OF MORMON
WHERE: THE ALEXANDRA THEATRE, BIRMINGHAM
WHEN: DECEMBER 3 TO 28
The New York Times calls it ‘The best musical of this century.’ The Washington
Post says, ‘It is the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.’ And
Entertainment Weekly raves, ‘Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.’ It’s The
Book of Mormon, the nine-time Tony Award and four-time Olivier Award-winning Best Musical.
This outrageous musical comedy from the creators of South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, and Bobby
Lopez, the Co-writer of Avenue Q and Frozen, follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries,
sent on a mission to a place that’s about as far from Salt Lake City as you can get.
Laugh-out-loud funny with insanely catchy music you will be humming for months on end! Be sure to catch
The Book of Mormon while you can! For more details and to book tickets visit www.atgtickets.
com/birmingham
WHAT: CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW
WHERE: LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL
WHEN: DECEMBER 16 TO 18 AND 20 TO 22
One of the highlights of the festive season in Lichfield, the Cathedral
will once again be lit up with a festive light spectacular by the acclaimed
animation team Illuminos.
Enjoy a showstopping light show around Cathedral Close, and on the front of the
Cathedral, listen to popular carols, and head inside to soak up the atmosphere of this special time of year.
Tickets are priced at £12.50 for adults and £10 for children aged two to 16, with under-twos going free. A
family ticket for two adults and two children is available for £40. Tickets Include after-hours access to the
Christmas Tree Festival, Gift Shop and Crib.For more information visit www.lichfield-cathedral.org
WHAT: ELF THE MUSICAL
WHERE: BP PULSE LIVE BIRMINGHAM
WHEN: DECEMBER 20 TO 22
After sell-out arena tours and a record breaking two West End seasons at
The Dominion, the musical theatre arena spectacular of the hilarious hit
movie ELF will be hitting the road again this festive season, coming to
Birmingham’s bp pulse LIVE arena.
The arena spectacular Elf The Musical features Santa’s magical flying sleigh, an audience snowball fight,
a giant candy cane journey from the North Pole, amongst many spectacular scenes all set against amazing
video-film backdrops on a large LED screen.
With a large cast, the winter spectacular will star one of the UK’s most exciting rising comedy talents,
Jordan Conway, who will step into the big floppy shoes of Will Ferrell. Jordan takes on the iconic role fresh
from playing Charlie Chaplin in London and Los Angeles in the acclaimed comedy play Laurel and Chaplin
- The Feud and flying high as Peter Pan opposite Boy George in the spectacular arena tour that sailed into
the Resorts World Arena, last Christmas. For more information and to book tickets visit www.
bppulselive.co.uk
WHAT: PETER PAN
WHERE: BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME
WHEN: DECEMBER 21 TO FEBRUARY 2
Following a triumphant season last year, and by popular demand,
Birmingham’s own Alison Hammond returns to Birmingham Hippodrome’s
panto, this year leading the cast as The Magical Mermaid!
Alison joins Hippodrome panto star and award-winning comic Matt Slack, who
returns for an eleventh season as Smee, star of stage and screen Danny Mac as Captain Hook,
resident dame Andrew Ryan and Billie-Kay who returns for a second year as Tink!
They will be joined by performers Rhiannon Chesterman as Wendy, and Noah Harrison in the title role
of Peter Pan.
With amazing special effects, stunning sets and beautiful costumes direct from The London Palladium,
Peter Pan will take your whole family on a magical trip to Neverland like never before! For more details
and to book tickets visit www.birminghamhippodrome.com
Advertising feature
Peace of mind for you and your family
The peace of mind that comes with a
move to a retirement community often
extends to family members too. Here
at Adlington Retirement Living, we offer
on-site support, 24-7, 365 days a year
which provides reassurance for both our
homeowners, and their family.
When Edna and Philip moved to an
Adlington Retirement Living community,
their daughter Rachel said: “It feels safe.
There’s somebody on duty 24-hours a day.
It’s such a relief for us to know that there’s
always somebody there. If Mum and Dad
haven’t been down to the restaurant or
nobody’s seen them, they get a phone
call to check they’re ok. It’s just such a
comfort, knowing that they’re looked
out for.”
Sharon Bossons, Senior Operations
Manager at Adlington Management
Services, said: “The most important
aspect of our job is the support we
provide to homeowners. It’s our role to
deliver the lifestyle that they expect when
they move to an Adlington Retirement
Living community. The best thing for
me is having happy homeowners. I love
the fact that I can walk into any of our
retirement communities and feel a positive
atmosphere and hear laughter and joy.
That’s when I know we’ve got it right.”
It’s futureproofing. Another thing I liked
was that I would still be independent,
still have my own front door, and still be
close to where all my activities are. I play
bridge, I sing in the local community choir
and my friends live nearby. It’s the best of
both worlds.
“I really liked the fact that I wouldn’t have
that weight of responsibility for a property
on my shoulders and I wouldn’t have that
to worry about. I wouldn’t need to worry
about the hedges that need to be cut
down twice a year, or about decorating.
That could all be lifted off my shoulders.”
10% price discount or
50% service charge paid
for five years^
Anne, another Adlington homeowner,
said: “I liked the idea of there being
somebody on hand. There’s a duty
manager here 24-7. I mean thank
goodness I haven’t needed to call on
them, but I might do at some point.
1, 2 & 3-bedroom retirement apartments, available to buy from
£200,000 to £895,000 * and a select few available to rent from £1,300 * pcm
0121 817 8680 • adlington.co.uk/JA
Broadleaf House, Birmingham Road, Wylde Green, B72 1DH
^Terms and conditions apply, offer not available in conjunction with any other incentive,
available on a new reservation taken on or before 31st January 2025 on selected
apartments, and not available on rental apartments. * Additional charges apply.
Prices quoted exclude Service & Wellbeing Charge, prices shown refer to new
apartments only, correct at time of publication. See website or call for details.
Images shown for illustrative purposes only.
24.11.15_Press_WG_Jaime_Magazine_Advertorial_FP.indd 1 31/10/2024 16:57
FINANCE
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Wealth Matters
A BI-MONTHLY LOOK AT THE WORLD OF FINANCE FROM LICHFIELD
FINANCIAL ADVISER KEVIN JENKINS APFS, CERT CII(MP)
BUDGET 2024
This month we focus on the importance of reviewing
your affairs following the budget.
PENSIONS AND INHERITANCE TAX
If the new rules attain royal ascent then pension
benefits accrued could potentially form part of your
estate for inheritance tax purposes. The ramifications
of this are hugely significant and you should
review your personal circumstances at the earliest
opportunity.
SOME OPTIONS TO CONSIDER
GIFTING - it is possible to use the various
exemptions that exist and should you exceed these
then the use of trusts and surviving seven years will
provide planning opportunities.
Another planning method is to consider an insurance
policy in trust to provide for any inheritance tax
liability. The sooner the better as these are medically
underwritten. This means the cost increases as you get
older, should you not set the wheels in motion.
These are NOT the only options available and you
should review your options at the earliest opportunity.
WILLS AND LASTING POWERS OF
ATTORNEY
I would always encourage clients to reassess their wills
and ensure that you consider establishing Powers of
Attorney to assist in managing your affairs should you
lose physical or mental capacity.
As always…. Please take professional advice.
The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from
taxation, can change at any time and are generally
dependent on individual circumstances.
The value of investments can go up as well as down
and your investments are not guaranteed.
The writing of Wills and Powers of Attorney involves
a referral to a service that is separate and distinct
from those offered by St. James’s Place. Wills and
Lasting Powers of Attorney are NOT regulated by the
Financial Conduct Authority.
Trusts are not regulated by the Financial Conduct
Authority.
Kevin M. Jenkins APFS, Cert CII(MP)
Kevin M. Jenkins APFS, Cert CII(MP)
Chartered Financial Planner & Director of Jenkins & Co Financial Management Ltd
M. +44 (0) 07795 172000 - T. +44 (0) 345 430 1475 - E. kevin.jenkins@sjpp.co.uk - www.jenkinsandcofm.co.uk
Jenkins & Co Financial Management Ltd 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. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’
are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are
marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.
SJP Approval Date 08/11/2024
50
www.jaimemagazine.com
O’MALLEY FAMILY
FUNERALS
CHOOSE A FAMILY
We are siblings, Jack, Grace and Luke O’Malley,
and we are here to help at life’s most difficult time.
No matter your needs, beliefs or circumstances, our family is committed
to providing a truly personal service when you need it the most.
Read our 5-star reviews & compare our prices at
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cannock
George Alfred Funeral Home
16-20 North Street
Cannock WS11 0BA
burntwood
John Joseph Funeral Home
152 Cannock Road
Burntwood WS7 0BG
01543 529813
24-HOUR SERVICE, ARRANGEMENTS BY APPOINTMENT
WWW.OMALLEYFUNERALS.CO.UK
FASHION
Your time to shine
TURN HEADS ALL SEASON LONG BY ADDING A TOUCH OF SPARKLE TO
YOUR FESTIVE WARDROBE, SAYS AMY NORBURY
AS December rolls around, the race is on to pin down the perfect Christmas party outfit. And for
2024 it’s all about sparkle, as sequins and metallics prove the key ingredients of the late shift this
party season; after all, now is your time
to shine.
The AW24 catwalks were awash with
bold, statement dressing, packed with
embellishments and bling. From the
rhinestones and velvet of Zuhair Murad
to the sparkly fringing at Tory Burch,
evening glamour is back and bigger
than ever.
Whichever look you choose to take you
from desk to dancefloor, more is most
certainly more - so be brave and have
fun with your fashion choices this festive
season.
Top of the style list for party season is
the statement dress. Offering maximum
impact for minimal effort, a killer dress
is a Christmas party staple - invest in a
timeless silhouette and rework each wear
to keep things on trend. Pair with a tux
jacket and killer boots for the ultimate in
cool girl chic, or throw on a cocktail coat
and satin mules for sophisticated glam.
For head-to-toe sparkle, molten metallics
and bold sequins make for fabulous coord
options. Co-ords offer the versatility
to mix and match to make the most of
your choice. Pair with quality basics - a
white tee here, a chunky knit there, your
favourite denim number - to style out a
number of occasions, or wear together as
intended for pure party perfection.
If you’ve already got the perfect ppiece
hanging in your wardrobe, then it’s easy
to refresh your look with some wellchosen
statement accessories. Add some
cool heels, statement jewellery and partyperfect
clutch to make even the simplest
outfit a seasonal sartorial smash.
BRIA METALLIC BLOUSE, £69, AND SOFIA METALLIC
TROUSER, FATFACE. WWW.FATFACE.COM
52
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BOW DETAIL SEQUIN MINI DRESS, £149, M&S X SIENNA MILLER
WWW.MARKSANDSPENCER.COM
ANNA FLUTE SLEEVE SEQUIN VELVET MINI DRESS,
MONSOON, WWW.MONSOON.COM
£175
£59
SEQUIN SKIRT, MARKS & SPENCER, £49.50
WWW.MARKSANDSPENCER.COM
£49.50
JOHN LEWIS AND/OR GOLD SEQUIN VEST £59
WWW.JOHNLEWIS.COM
JAEGER MIDI COLUMN DRESS
£175, MARKS &SPENCER,
WWW.MARKSANDSPENCER.COM
£165
£570
DUNE, LONDON OLARA £165 BLACK LEATHER BOOTS
WWW.DUNELONDON.COM
CLOUD MINI METALLIC LEATHER CLUTCH, £570, MANSUR
GAVRIEL AT HARVEY NICHOLS. WWW.HARVEYNICHOLS.COM
FASHION
Winter style wrapped up
THE STAR PIECE IN YOUR STYLE ARSENAL, YOUR WINTER COAT IS A TRUE WARDROBE STAPLE
WHICH IS WORTH A LITTLE INVESTMENT, SAYS AMY NORBURY
THE temperature outside has noticeably dropped,
the nights are drawing in - and this is your sign,
should you need it, to up your outerwear game for
the season ahead.
A winter coat is the cornerstone of any wardrobe, a
hero piece which will pay for itself time and again
throughout the chillier months. Combining style and
practicality, your winter coat is the one item you’ll
reach for on a daily basis; after all, the right coat
will see you bracing the sub-zero temperatures with
confidence as the focal point of your outfit. Choose
wisely and your pick will see you right through to
spring and beyond for years to come.
While it isn’t necessary to replace your winter coat
annually, if your outdoor threads are looking a little,
well, threadbare this year, there are some great pieces
out there to help you freshen things up.
This winter timeless silhouettes and classic styles
reign supreme. Elegant wool coats in neutral hues,
retro bomber jackets, practical puffer coats and the
classic black coat are eternally popular picks - here
we round up some of our favourites.
£175 £89 £400
QUILTED LONGLINE GREEN PUFFER
COAT, FROM A SELECTION AT MONSOON.
WWW.MONSOON.CO.UK
PER UNA BORG SHEARLING AVIATOR,
£89, MARKS AND SPENCER.
WWW.MARKSANDSPENCER.COM
EVEREST WOOL BLEND COAT, £400,
RAILS AT HARVEY NICHOLS.
WWW.HARVEYNICHOLS.COM
£299 £110 £109
BLACK SHEARLING BOMBER JACKET, £299,
JOHN LEWIS. WWW.JOHNLEWIS.COM
COPPER & BLACK MAGGIE SHORT TEDDY COAT,
£110, FATFACE. WWW.FATFACE.COM
HERITAGE COAT, £109,
MARKS AND SPENCER.
WWW.MARKSANDSPENCER.COM
54
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Specialists in designing
and making, remodelling
and refurbishing
ALLEN BROWN JEWELLERY
Heart of The Country Shopping Village
Swinfen, Lichfield,
Staffordshire WS14 9QR
01543 481948
www.allenbrownjewellery.co.uk
Watch
Our Story
55
Festive Lunch & Dinner
at Moor Hall
The Oak Room Brasserie
Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner in the elegant
surroundings of The Oak Room Brassiere restaurant.
With its oak panelling, carved fire place, ornate ceiling and sweeping views
of the surrounding parkland, it makes the perfect setting for a special
festive celebration.
LUNCH
Open Fridays
from 8th December
Reservations 12pm - 2.30pm
3 courses for £30
DINNER
Open every evening
from 1st December
Reservations 6.30pm - 9pm
3 courses for £45
The Country Kitchen
Enjoy the best of British comfort food at a great value price,
along with warm and friendly service.
Gather your family and friends and indulge in a festive 3 course meal
and celebrate the season with those who matter most.
LUNCH
Open Thurs, Fri & Sun
from 30th November
Reservations 12pm - 2pm
Sundays 12pm - 5pm
£25 per adult | £18 under 12s
DINNER
Open Thurs, Fri & Sat
from 1st December
Reservations 5pm - 8.30pm
£26 per adult | £18 under 12s
Festive Afternoon Tea
The ultimate pre-Christmas treat! Enjoy a delicious Festive
Afternoon Tea at Moor Hall in the elegant Oak Room restaurant.
Available every day from 1pm from Tuesday 28th November to
Saturday 23rd December
ADULTS £30 | CHILDREN £20
To book call 0121 308 3751 or go online www.moorhallhotel.co.uk
www.jaimemagazine.com
New Year's Eve Dinner
& Live Band
Welcome in 2025 in style with a fabulous dinner and live
band.
Make your New Year's Eve a night to remember and
celebrate at Moor Hall Hotel. You will be greeted with a
glass of Prosecco and then seated for a delicious fourcourse
meal in the elegant Charter Suite, with party hats
and novelties on the table.
New for this year is our fantastic live band to get the party
started! With a varied repertoire of soul, funk, pop, and rock
classics they’ll be sure to have you dancing all night long.
Our package includes an overnight stay in a superior double
room with access to the spa facilities and a full English
breakfast.
Date: Tuesday 31st December 2024
Arrival time: 7pm for dinner at 7.30pm
Dress code: Dress to impress!
Price: £480 based on 2 sharing
To book call 0121 308 3751 or go online www.moorhallhotel.co.uk/christmas
BEAUTY
The season to sparkle
LEVEL UP YOUR FESTIVE GLAM WITH SHIMMERY SHADES AND GROWN-UP
GLITTER TO CREATE FLAWLESSLY FABULOUS PARTY MAKE-UP LOOKS
PARTY season is upon us, bringing with it the opportunity
to step out of our beauty comfort zone and
embrace make-up which makes a statement. After
all, if ever there was a time for your glam to truly
shine, it’s the month of December.
And what better way to invoke the festive spirit than
with a bit of sparkle. From glitter-scattered lids to
a slick of shimmer on the lips, amp up your beauty
regime with glitz galore.
Fine glitter dusted across the eyelids serves as a
classic nod to the season. Add a glittery vibe to your
everyday make-up for a subtle festive fix, then take
your look from desk to dancefloor by extending your
glitter shadow into winged shapes for added drama.
Swap out your matte lips for a shimmery sparkle,
sticking to nudes for daytime and bold glittery red
wine hues for party time.
No party look is complete without a fresh set of nails,
and this is where you can afford to make a statement;
chunky glitter, metallic French tips or a diamante or
two will make sure you dazzle all season long.
£33
£48
£48
CHANTECAILLE LIP CRISTAL IN
AVENTURINE, £48, HARVEY NICHOLS.
WWW.HARVEYNICHOLS.COM
VICTORIA BECKHAM LID LUSTRE, £33.
WWW.VICTORIABECKHAMBEAUTY.COM
PALETTE OF POPS LUXURY PALETTE,
£48, CHARLOTTE TILBURY.
WWW.CHARLOTTETILBURY.COM
£40
£38
£29
GIORGIO ARMANI LUMINOUS SILK
ACQUA HIGHLIGHTER, £31, BOOTS.
WWW.BOOTS.COM
HOLLYWOOD GLOW GLIDE FACE
ARCHITECT HIGHLIGHTER, £38,
CHARLOTTE TILBURY.
WWW.CHARLOTTETILBURY.COM
CHANEL LE VERNIS NAIL COLOUR IN
PHENIX, £29. WWW.CHANEL.COM
£31
ROUGE DIOR FOREVER SEQUIN LIQUID
LIPSTICK IN MASQUERADE, £40. WWW.DIOR.COM
56
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IN THE NEWS
Winter wonders
ALLEN BROWN JEWELLERY, AT HEART OF THE COUNTRY SHOPPING VILLAGE IN SWINFEN,
RECENTLY LAUNCHED THEIR BRAND NEW WINTER COLLECTION
Visitors to Allen Brown Jewellery over the weekend
of November 2 and 3 were treated to a first look
at the gallery’s new winter collection - a stunning
display of colourful pieces and precious stones.
From aquamarine and amethyst, to tourmaline,
citrine and peridot, as well as morganite, fire opals,
multi-coloured sapphires and, of course, diamonds,
the new collection is a veritable feast for the eyes.
Allen Brown said: “We’ve had a lot of fun creating
the new collection, it’s all about crispness, colour
and contrast.
“It was fantastic to see so many customers both
old and new over the two days. The new collection
pieces as well, as being on display in our Swinfen
jewellery gallery, will also be available to view on
our online shop.”
Allen Brown Jewellery located at Heart of the
Country Shopping Village, Swinfen, near Lichfield,
WS14 9QR. The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday
from 10am to 5pm and also open Mondays during
December.
For more details call 01543 481 948 or visit
www.allenbrownjewellery.co.uk to view
the new collection and more. Follow Allen
Brown Jewellery’s social media pages for
updates and for everything Christmas.
JEWELLER ALLEN BROWN
COLOUR PLAYS AN IMPORTANT
ROLE IN THE WINTER DESIGNS
A STUNNING PENDANT FROM
THE NEW COLLECTION
www.jaimemagazine.com
57
BUSINESS
Craftsmanship and design
QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP AND STYLISH DESIGN COMBINE TO CREATE SHOWSTOPPING KITCHENS
AND INTERIORS AT ELLIS HYDE KITCHENS, BASED AT HEART OF THE COUNTRY SHOPPING VILLAGE
Ellis Hyde Kitchens have built an enviable
reputation designing, supplying and fitting high-spec
contemporary and traditional kitchens for discerning
homeowners across the Midlands and beyond.
Offering luxurious Masterclass Kitchens, which are
renowned for their premium cabinetry and cutting
edge furniture solutions designed to enhance and
maximise your kitchen space, Ellis Hyde can help
make your kitchen design dreams a reality.
Ellis Hyde is a joint venture between Richard
Woolgrove, who handles the design and fitting side of
the business, and interiors specialist Richard Hyde.
Richard Woolgrove’s expertise in craftsmanship comes
from years of experience and a true passion for highend,
quality workmanship in all that he does.
After taking an apprenticeship in carpentry and
joinery from 1992 to 1997, Richard gained five years’
experience on site, before taking another two-year
course in wood-machining and cabinet-making.
In 2005 he began fitting for various companies in
the West Midlands and beyond, ranging from new
build to high end hand build. In recent years he has
expanded his skillset to encompass designing as well.
The vast experience he has gained, in both design
and fitting, saw him teaming up with Richard Hyde,
a specialist in interiors who, like himself, is keen to
promote a quality product that will offer years of
satisfaction.
The Ellis Hyde showroom, at Heart of the Country
village, near Lichfield, features a range of high quality
cabinetry from Masterclass Kitchens, showcasing a
variety of stunning traditional and contemporary
design.
As proud Platinum Partners of Masterclass, Ellis Hyde
design and fit bespoke luxury kitchens and interiors
which are custom designed and built to enhance your
lifestyle. Creating unique, bespoke and luxury spaces,
all tastes are accommodated, and can be enjoyed for
many years to come.
The company’s experience, design skill and flair to
create truly unique interiors, coupled with care and
attention to detail at the forefront of everything they
do, as well as using the best quality materials, ensures
that Ellis Hyde takes a project from inception to
completion, handling every part of the process along
the way.
Ellis Hyde Kitchens, Dress Rooms and
Interiors are based at the Heart of the
Country Shopping Village, Swinfen, ideally
situated close to Lichfield, Sutton Coldfield
and the surrounding villages. Pop into the
showroom from Tuesday to Sunday 10am to
4pm. For more information call 01543 481441,
visit www.ellishydekitchens.co.uk or email
info@ellishydekitchens.co.uk
58
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Your Leading Solicitors
in Lichfield
All very efficient in dealing with sale of a property, always kept
in the loop and very clear regarding how long the process
would take and at what stage the transaction has reached.
To be recommended!
John Levick, One of Over 1000 5-Star Google Reviews
Conveyancing, Family Law,
Wills and Estate Planning
T I 01543 387 509
A I 2a Bore Street, Lichfield, WS13 6LL
Milford House, 260 Lichfield Road, Four Oaks, B74 2UH
COTSWOLDS I LONDON I STAFFORDSHIRE I WARWICKSHIRE I WEST MIDLANDS