september 2017 the solihull index a community magazine and business directory for residents of solihull   

Helping You Afford Your Next Vehicle. VAUXHALL CORSA EXC HYUNDAI I30 ACTIVE

Special Offer £150.00 pm Special Offer £190.00 pm Air Con MFS Wheel USB Bluetooth USB AirCon No Deposit! Inclusive of FREE Servicing and MOT's! CITROEN BERLINGO RENAULT MASTER

Special Offer £235.00 pm Special Offer £380.00 pm Sat Nav Bluetooth USB USB Ply Lined 3 Seats No Need to worry about CCJ's or Bad Credit! Visit www.easyleasecars.co.uk To Find Out How or Call Us Now on 0121 693 0573 www.solihullindex.com delivered FREE to 5700 homes NH_knowle_dorridge_full_page.qxp_september_2017 04/09/2017 10:44 Page 1

BRING YOUR PARTY TO OUR PARTY!

in & at Nailcote Hall Hotel

OCTOBER 2017 Sat 7th ‘BACK TO THE 80’s’ PARTY with 80’s EXPERIENCE £39.50 Fri 13th ‘LENNON AND McCARTNEY’ with THE LENNON AND McCARTNEY EXPERIENCE £32.50 Sat 21st THE ‘BEE GEES’ SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER PARTY with STAYIN’ ALIVE 35.00 NOVEMBER 2017 Sat 11th MOTOWN DIVAS SHOW with THE DREAMETTES £32.50 Sat 25th THE SNOWBALL ‘BLACK TIE’ PARTY NIGHT with THE SOUNDATIONS £49.50 DECEMBER 2017 Fri 1st THE ‘TAKE THAT’ SPECTACULAR with ‘TAKE@THAT’ £39.50 Fri 1st THE XMAS ‘MAMMA MIA’ PARTY with BOOTLEG ABBA £37.50 Sat 2nd CHRISTMAS ‘MOTOWN’ PARTY with THE BROTHERS OF SOUL £42.50 Sat 2nd BACK TO THE 60’S PARTY with THE REVOLVERS £37.50 Fri 8th SWINGING 60’s & MOTOWN PARTY with THE KRYSTALETTES £37.50 Fri 8th CHRISTMAS ‘BACK TO THE 80’s’ PARTY with 80’s EXPERIENCE £42.50 Fri 15th The BEST ‘PARTY ANIMALS’ NIGHT with RANG A TANG £39.50 Fri 15th THE ULTIMATE SOUL PARTY with THE BOOZE BROTHERS £42.50 Sat 16th ‘HITS OF THE DECADES’ PARTY with JARZINO £39.50 Sat 16th THE XMAS SOUL AND FUNK PARTY with ‘MARKS BROTHERS’ £42.50 Tue 19th OLLY MURS & BRUNO MARS PARTY with ROBBIE GLENN £35.00 Wed 20th GEORGE BENSON - STEVIE WONDER PARTY with NAT AUGUSTIN £35.00 Thu 21st THE No.1 ROD STEWART TRIBUTE with GARRY PEASE £35.00 Fri 22nd ‘BACK TO THE 80’s’ XMAS PARTY with GR80’s £35.00 Sat 23rd CHRISTMAS MOTOWN DIVAS SHOW with THE DREAMETTES £35.00 Sun 31st NEW YEARS EVE ‘BLACK TIE’ MOTOWN BALL with THE BROTHERS OF SOUL £85.00

TICKET PRICES INCLUDE 3 COURSE MEAL - WE WILL CATER FOR ANY SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS BY PRIOR ARRANGEMENT PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE FULL DETAILS www.nailcotehall.co.uk BOOKING HOTLINE CALL: 02476 466174 [email protected] Nailcote Lane, Berkswell, Warwickshire CV7 7DE NH_knowle_dorridge_full_page.qxp_september_2017 04/09/2017 10:44 Page 1

BRING YOUR PARTY TO OUR PARTY! bathrooms galore….

… just a dd water

• Replace your bath with a walk in in & shower enclosure. at Nailcote Hall Hotel • Easy access - low level trays or wet floors. OCTOBER 2017 • No need to replace tiles or Sat 7th ‘BACK TO THE 80’s’ PARTY with 80’s EXPERIENCE £39.50 sanitary ware. Fri 13th ‘LENNON AND McCARTNEY’ with THE LENNON AND McCARTNEY EXPERIENCE £32.50 • Shower seats and grab bars Sat 21st THE ‘BEE GEES’ SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER PARTY with STAYIN’ ALIVE 35.00 optional. NOVEMBER 2017 • Can fit in space of bath. Sat 11th MOTOWN DIVAS SHOW with THE DREAMETTES £32.50 Sat 25th THE SNOWBALL ‘BLACK TIE’ PARTY NIGHT with THE SOUNDATIONS £49.50 • Design and installation taken care

DECEMBER 2017 of by our professional team. Fri 1st THE ‘TAKE THAT’ SPECTACULAR with ‘TAKE@THAT’ £39.50 • VAT exemption available. Fri 1st THE XMAS ‘MAMMA MIA’ PARTY with BOOTLEG ABBA £37.50

Sat 2nd CHRISTMAS ‘MOTOWN’ PARTY with THE BROTHERS OF SOUL £42.50 Sat 2nd BACK TO THE 60’S PARTY with THE REVOLVERS £37.50 Fri 8th SWINGING 60’s & MOTOWN PARTY with THE KRYSTALETTES £37.50 Fri 8th CHRISTMAS ‘BACK TO THE 80’s’ PARTY with 80’s EXPERIENCE £42.50 Fri 15th The BEST ‘PARTY ANIMALS’ NIGHT with RANG A TANG £39.50 Fri 15th THE ULTIMATE SOUL PARTY with THE BOOZE BROTHERS £42.50 Sat 16th ‘HITS OF THE DECADES’ PARTY with JARZINO £39.50 Sat 16th THE XMAS SOUL AND FUNK PARTY with ‘MARKS BROTHERS’ £42.50 0121 783 9966 Tue 19th OLLY MURS & BRUNO MARS PARTY with ROBBIE GLENN £35.00 Call to book a free home Wed 20th GEORGE BENSON - STEVIE WONDER PARTY with NAT AUGUSTIN £35.00 Thu 21st THE No.1 ROD STEWART TRIBUTE with GARRY PEASE £35.00 quotation Fri 22nd ‘BACK TO THE 80’s’ XMAS PARTY with GR80’s £35.00 Sat 23rd CHRISTMAS MOTOWN DIVAS SHOW with THE DREAMETTES £35.00 Visit our showroom at: Sun 31st NEW YEARS EVE ‘BLACK TIE’ MOTOWN BALL with THE BROTHERS OF SOUL £85.00 49 Stoney Lane, Yardley, TICKET PRICES INCLUDE 3 COURSE MEAL - WE WILL CATER FOR ANY SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS BY PRIOR ARRANGEMENT Birmingham. B25 8RE PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE FULL DETAILS www.nailcotehall.co.uk BOOKING HOTLINE CALL: 02476 466174 [email protected] Nailcote Lane, Berkswell, Warwickshire CV7 7DE BATH OUT – SHOWER IN editor’s note first edition

Welcome to the first issue of The Solihull Index.

The Solihull Index is a new magazine to put you in touch with local companies and tradespeople who are ready and willing to help with any of your home improvements, from carpets, curtains and cleaners to driveways and doors! They’re all established businesses who want to expand their business locally.

And there’s also lots of great ideas in this magazine for things to do – from what’s on at the cinema and theatre in Solihull to new ideas for places to visit including Yew Tree Farm Shopping Village, Hoar Park, Earlswood Garden Centre and Hatton Country World.

Whatever you need help with in your home, or however you plan to spend your time, I hope you find some inspiration inside!

Zoe Reece Tel: 07557 220585 Email: [email protected] www.solihullindex.com

contents 8 Local events 35 Puzzles

september 2017 16 Cinema and theatre guide 36 Useful telephone numbers the solihull index a community magazine and business directory for residents of solihull directory   

Helping You Afford Your Next Vehicle. VAUXHALL CORSA EXC HYUNDAI I30 ACTIVE 18 Recipe 37 Index

Special Offer £150.00 pm Special Offer £190.00 pm Air Con MFS Wheel USB Bluetooth USB AirCon No Deposit! Inclusive of FREE Servicing and MOT's! CITROEN BERLINGO RENAULT MASTER 30 Book reviews

Special Offer £235.00 pm Special Offer £380.00 pm Sat Nav Bluetooth USB USB Ply Lined 3 Seats No Need to worry about CCJ's or Bad Credit! Visit www.easyleasecars.co.uk 31 Competition To Find Out How or Call Us Now on 0121 693 0573

www.solihullindex.com delivered FREE to 5200 homes

Locally designed by: hotlobster design ltd Printed by: Warwick Printing Company

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

4 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements first edition useful services

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

SOUL’D OUT UK 14th October 2017 Soul’d Out love making people boogie and seeing them have a great time. They are a highly motivated live Soul and Motown band and you'll be drawn into their high energy music from the start, with non- stop dancing. Tickets online from www.landroversc.co.uk

ELVIS AND THE DIXIE ROCK N ROLL BAND 4th November 2017 Mark Green has been performing his Elvis Experience Tribute Show for well over 13 years and has gained a huge following in his home town of Birmingham. He was voted the best Elvis Tribute Act in the Midlands by local radio station BRMB. Tickets online from www.landroversc.co.uk

CALL DURING OPENING HOURS TO PICK UP TICKETS FROM THE CLUB Billsmore Green, Solihull, B92 9LN • 0121 742 5490

Tudor Rose Curtains Curtains and Blinds designed and made for you!

www.tudorrosecurtains.co.uk No job too big or too small check out Tudor Rose Curtains on facebook

Answer Machine: 0121 445 2072

local interior designer [email protected] Sarah J Harper

07518 851063 call for a free no obligation quotation

6 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements useful services

To advertise call Zoe on 07557 220585 or [email protected] September 2017 7 usefullocal events services community events Support local farmers by visiting this popular market, which offers a tempting range of local produce sourced from within a 30 mile radius of Solihull, on the first Friday of every month. The National Motorcycle Museum Antiques Solihull Food & Bollywood Night & Collectors Fair Drink Festival Ramada Hotel Solihull Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull Town Centre 20th October Solihull B92 0EJ Friday 29th September – Bollywood Night with the funky Sunday 1st October, Sunday 1st October Bollywood Showgirls. Audience 9am – 3.30pm This year Solihull town centre will participation included. £25 Set inside the luxurious and be showcasing the ultimate food per person. Price includes 2 iconic Motorcycle Museum, this and drink festival! There will be course Indian buffet, Bollywood is a fantastic day out and the demonstrations from the best Showgirls and DJ Entertainment. ideal opportunity for you to find loved celebrity chef with a big To book call 0121 711 2121. something perfect to complement bike and big heart, Hairy Biker your home, collection or wardrobe! Dave Myers, and CBeebies ‘I Farmers’ Market Up to 120 tables – free parking – Can Cook’ star Katy Ashworth. High Street and Mill Lane on-site café! Entry £3, concessions Friday 6th October, 9am – 5pm £2, children free. www.swfairs.co.uk

THE CORE LIBRARY Meet and Play session offers the chance for young families 0121 704 6965 to meet up, relax, chat, play,

sing or make music together! • Councillor’s Surgery - these The session is for families, led are face-to-face meetings by families. Toys and musical held by councillors for local instruments are provided. For people to raise issues in their more information contact 0121 area. First and last Saturday of 704 6965. the month, 10.00am-12.00pm • Homework Club - Tuesdays • Rhyme Time - Wednesdays 3.45pm to 5.15pm, term time 10.15am to 10.30am, term-time only only. A short interactive session • Silent Reading Cafe - Held for 0-2s that includes finger once a month on Thursday and action rhymes and songs. evenings, this is a chance to Come along and meet up unwind and read in a cosy, with other parents/carers and informal environment without discover what the library can distractions. It begins with an offer your child hour of silent reading from • Meet and Play - Fridays 6pm with a chance to chat (if 10.15am to 11.15am, age 0 - 2 you want) between 7pm and years (term time only. Our new 7.45pm.

8 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements useful services

+ www.progressionarchitects.com 01564 730 191 p pt [email protected]

Chartered Architects Gary Winn RIBA and Dean Poulton RIBA are Progression Architects and have been based in Solihull since 1992. They are about to celebrate 25 years in practice. The practice specialises in the design of domestic house extensions, one off houses and conversions, although they also have some corporate blue chip clients.

They offer an initial free appraisal of your project, within the solihull area, where their wealth of experience can be offered to examine your initial ideas and work with you to progress your ideas into a design. “a bespoke building designed for you”

“designing “taking the your stress out of dream space” “envisioning ideal layout” construction”

www.progressiontownplanning.com pp 01564 730 191 chartered town planners [email protected]

At Progression we are also Chartered Town Planners and members of the Royal Town Planning Institute. We specialise in dealing with planning applications and negotiating with the Local Authorities. We also prepare, submit and attend Planning Appeals, where applications are refused, putting our case forward from an applicant’s point of view.

As we are also Architects, we tend to think through our solutions creatively, at times from a perspective that is not immediately apparent. As Arboriculturists, we work together where tree issues meet planning issues, such as Tree Preservation Orders.

9To Mentionadvertise the call Knowle Zoe on &07557 Dorridge 220585 Directory or [email protected] when responding to advertisements September 2017 9 useful services

10 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements useful services

To advertise call Zoe on 07557 220585 or [email protected] September 2017 11 shopping village hatton shopping village A slice of quintessential England

Carved out of Victorian farm buildings, Hatton Shopping Village is a place of very special charm. The carthorses, cows, granary and dovecotes that used to occupy the buildings have given way to a bustling community of traditional and contemporary shopkeepers – making it the perfect place for shoppers to treat themselves and their friends. luxury Belgian chocolates . And not forgetting Hatton t Hatton, there Furniture – a real favourite is that timeless amongst our visitors, offering tranquillity and exquisite bespoke handmade friendly courtesies furniture and gorgeous for which the interior accessories EnglishA countryside is so ‘stairway to heaven’ on Grand All this alongside a beauty famed – whether taking a Union Canal, or enjoying a salon, individual boutiques stroll along Hatton’s famous delicious afternoon tea at one and a garden centre together of its quintessentially British with a newly refurbished and eateries – The Spinning Jenny extended Farm and Village or the Café Lavender Blue. shop brimming full of delicious With roots as a craft goodies, treats and essentials. centre, some of the original No surprise that people tradesmen still remain, and come to shop, stay to wander those who love bespoke gifts at Hatton Shopping Village – tend to look no further than Unique, Unusual and Boutique John Garland Taylor or Alan Wright jewellers, the Art of Glass stained-glass workshop or Lily Anne gifts and accessories. Then there’s the traditional sweet shop, offering everything from homemade fudge to

12 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements hatton shopping village Santa’s A slice of quintessential England Grotto @ EarlswoodGLC Every weekend from Saturday 25th November PLUS Monday 18th to Saturday 23rd December

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

For details and to book, visit www.earlswoodglc.co.uk/grotto EARLSWOOD© G A R D E N & L A N D S C A P E C E N T R E FORSHAW HEATH ROAD | EARLSWOOD | SOLIHULL | B94 5JU t. 01564 702314 | [email protected] | www.earlswoodglc.co.uk useful services

YEW TREE FARM Solihull Indoor COURTYARD SHOPPING Bowls Club FUNCTION ROOM HIRE SOLIHULL A stylish and contemporary shopping village made up of siteen beautiful barns and coffee shop in a courtyard setting offering a wide range • Perfect for parties, weddings of uniue uality products from around the world. and conferences • Up to 120 guests MEET - GREET - SHOP - EAT With something for the whole family • Licensed bar, serving hot & cold drinks ew Tree arm Shopping illage comprises the following units • Catering can be arranged if required Brick Kiln Lane E R (O Widney Lane) Yew Tree Farm Shop Beyond the Blue Le Grenier 0121 709 2233 Solihull, B91 3LE ome Baing ocal Produce ifestyle Clothing nglish and rench 15 95 15 9225 Antiue urniture 15 951 SPECIAL OFFER: FRIDAY NIGHT ROOM HIRE ONLY £50! SATURDAY NIGHT £100. Cowshed Eaterie Yew Tree Salon Brunches unches airdressers The Garden Afternoon Tea 15 9529 Furniture Centre 15 9299 Garden Conservatory The Cardio Shop urniture The Antiques Shop ome itness uipment 15 952 Collectables Antiues 15 555 and intage Henley Chocolates Bizarto 15 92 Chocolaterie Design Training Interiors Giftivity 15 91 15 9 Antiques, Furnishings, Wood Burners, Weddings, Giftware and Interiors Gosh Boutique Della and James Giftware, Curtains, Blinds, Shabby Chic, Chalk Paint, ingerie and Swimwear Art, Commissions accepted. 15 955 The Wild Hare 15 9255 Interests Greys Teas andmade he Tack & Animal Feed, Giftware, Toys, Candles, Needlework Speciality Teas H for Hats Enjoy t Cards ewellery ats at ire & Bunting, Floristry, Wood-turning, Pottery Parties. 15 92295 shopping 15 925 15 925 experience Food and Drink Licensed Restaurant, Chocolate Shop, Tea Rooms Fashion NEW AUTUMN COLLECTION Jewellery, Handbags, Wedding, Cocktail and Daywear, Handmade Leather Goods, AT BEYOND THE BLUE Encaustic Art, Ladies Clothing, Knitting Kits & More... New Autumn range at Beyond the Blue Lifestyle Clothing Sunday g Mens, Ladies and Children's ranges including:- Fun Bi y ept ounce Da 17th S The Children’s Farm & B ept. Parties, Pets Corner. 17th S 11am-4pm Joules, Pomodoro, Lazy Jacks, Weird Fish, Tulchan, Animal, Open all year (inc Bank Holidays) Tuesday to Sunday 10am-5pm Jack Murphy, Mistral, Lighthouse and Kipling Bags Tel: 024 7639 4433 www.hoar-park.co.uk B4114 Nr Ansley, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 0QU YEW TREE FARM COURTYARD SHOPPING, STRATFORD ROAD, WOOTTON WAWEN, WARWICKSHIRE B95 6BY. GENERAL OPENING TIMES TUESDAY - SUNDAY 10AM - 5PM. SOME UNITS NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK. WWW.YEW-TREE-FARM.CO.UK 14 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements YEW TREE FARM COURTYARD SHOPPING

A stylish and contemporary shopping village made up of siteen beautiful barns and coffee shop in a courtyard setting offering a wide range of uniue uality products from around the world. MEET - GREET - SHOP - EAT With something for the whole family ew Tree arm Shopping illage comprises the following units E R Yew Tree Farm Shop Beyond the Blue Le Grenier ome Baing ocal Produce ifestyle Clothing nglish and rench 15 95 15 9225 Antiue urniture 15 951 Cowshed Eaterie Yew Tree Salon Brunches unches airdressers The Garden Afternoon Tea 15 9529 Furniture Centre 15 9299 Garden Conservatory The Cardio Shop urniture The Antiques Shop ome itness uipment 15 952 Collectables Antiues 15 555 and intage Henley Chocolates Bizarto 15 92 Chocolaterie Design Training Giftivity 15 91 15 9 Giftware and Interiors Gosh Boutique Della and James 15 955 ingerie and Swimwear The Wild Hare 15 9255 Greys Teas andmade Speciality Teas H for Hats Cards ewellery ats at ire 15 92295 15 925 15 925 NEW AUTUMN COLLECTION AT BEYOND THE BLUE New Autumn range at Beyond the Blue Lifestyle Clothing Mens, Ladies and Children's ranges including:-

Joules, Pomodoro, Lazy Jacks, Weird Fish, Tulchan, Animal, Jack Murphy, Mistral, Lighthouse and Kipling Bags

YEW TREE FARM COURTYARD SHOPPING, STRATFORD ROAD, WOOTTON WAWEN, WARWICKSHIRE B95 6BY. GENERAL OPENING TIMES TUESDAY - SUNDAY 10AM - 5PM. SOME UNITS NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK. WWW.YEW-TREE-FARM.CO.UK what’s on a taster of what’s on in september & october ...

CINEMA controversial friendship nearly led comedians and performances to a revolt in the royal household. rarely seen outside the ‘West End’ from this superb cast of singers Blade Runner and dancers. Including songs by 2049 Brenda Lee, Frank Sinatra, Jerry Lee from 6th October Lewis, Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Bee This takes us back Gees, Barry Manilow, Jersey Boys, to the dark future Michael Buble and many more.. of the original classic to find a MYJO & Special new blade runner, Guest Claire Martin Officer K, searching for the Thursday 28th September missing Rick Deckard. Deckard The multi- disappeared 30 years ago, but award winning K has discovered a secret that Midland Youth could plunge what remains Jazz Orchestra of society into turmoil. With under the the world continuing to decay expert leadership of John Ruddick around him, he hunts for MBE returns with a special guest Wind River Deckard, the one man who singer Claire Martin - one of the from 8th September may be able to help him. UK’s Finest Jazz singers. MYJO Cory Lambert, a veteran tracker have won so many big band in the wilderness of Wyoming, To book please visit competitions so many times that discovers a dead body in the ‘Wind www.cineworld.co.uk they were forced to rewrite the rules River’ Native American reservation, to give others the chance to win! and the FBI sends a young agent, Jane, to investigate. She and THEATRE Cory team up to try and solve the The Core Theatre, Solihull case, and they journey deep into (formerly Solihull Arts Complex) a violent, treacherous world that neither of them is prepared for.

Victoria and Abdul Patsy Cline and Friends from 15th Saturday 30th September September The Velvet Country voice of Patsy This film chronicles Cline caught the imagination of Sue the unlikely true Lowry who has been a lifelong fan story of the Memories are of Patsy Cline and Country Music! friendship between Made of This Patsy Cline was a record-breaking Queen Victoria Monday 25th and Tuesday recording artist, spending 251 weeks and a young Indian clerk called 26th September in the Country Music Album charts in Abdul, who had travelled to This fast moving, roller coaster of the USA. Sue Lowry, with her powerful England for the Golden Jubilee. a journey through some of the rendition of Sweet Dreams & Crazy, He’d expected to wait tables, greatest songs of the 50’s, 60’s will take you back to those Honky but found himself working as and 70’s, will be a show you are Tonk days of pure Country music. Victoria’s personal attendant. sure to remember. Over 160 Within a year, he had become a amazing costumes, a touch of To book please visit www. powerful figure at court; but their humour from one of the UK’s top thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

16 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements useful services back to back Back pain affects people in all age groups but is most prevalent in the over 50s. ealth experts say oblique muscles that encircle the surface at shoulder height. that chronic back the trunk like a corset. Bend elbows to support upper pain is increasing Those of us stuck at desks for body and, using abdominal across the most of our working day can strength, lift heels while population due to try these exercises whenever keeping the back straight. Hour sedentary lifestyle both we have a few minutes spare. 3. Stand with feet shoulder- at work and during our leisure Try 10-15 repetitions and hold width apart, about half a hours. Around 4.2 million each position for a count of 15. metre from a wall. Face the working days are lost to back 1. While sitting at your desk, put wall and lean against it using pain by those in the 50-64 feet flat on the floor and hands hands, the back should be years age range. A strong, on the edge of the desk. Push healthy, stable back requires back, arching your spine into a straight. Re ach up with right regular exercise. The exercises convex shape, then reverse it arm and simultaneously should strengthen the into a concave position. lift left leg backwards and muscles supporting the spine, 2. Stand about 30cm from a upwards. Repeat on the and also the abdominal and wall and place hands against opposite side

PHYSIOTHERAPY & PODIATRY at Daleswood Health

Kate Oakley Katie Cooke BSc (hons) MCSP Physiotherapy BSc (hons) MChS Podiatry Over 15 years experience Over 10 years experience

- Back Pain/Joint Pain - Routine Chiropody - Sports Injuries - Nail Surgery

- Rehabilitation - ‘Back Fit’ - Biomechanical Assessments and ‘Ski Fit’ programmes and Orthotics available - Verruca Needling - Pregnancy Care and - Medical Pedicures Pregnancy Pilates - Diabetic Foot Checks

Get in touch today to find out how we can help you get back on the road to recovery.

We are just 3 minutes drive from 01675 489 489 [email protected] Knowle High Street. Daleswood Health, Barn House, Barston Lane, Solihull, B92 OJJ

To advertise call Zoe on 07557 220585 or [email protected] September 2017 17 recipeuseful servicestime Slow-cooker Baked Apples with Nuts and Butterscotch Sauce Leave these apples in your slow-cooker and return home from an autumn walk to a tasty treat

Preparation Time: 20-30 minutes Method Cooking time: 2 hours thirty minutes Core the unpeeled apples but only go ¾ of the Makes 6 baked apples way through. Make the hole about 4cm / 1.5inches across. Then score the skin around the centre of Ingredients: the apple (to allow for expansion in the cooker). 6 apples Mix 30g of the butter with the nuts and, 90g / 3.5 oz Butter – chopped into cubes cinnamon and 60g of the sugar. Press 35g / 1.5oz slivered almonds the mixture into the apple cavities. 35g / 1.5oz chopped walnuts Into the slow cooker pour the cream, apple juice and ½ tsp Ground cinnamon remaining butter and sugar. Stand the apples in the 225g / 8oz Light brown sugar sauce, cover and cook on the ‘high’ setting for about 180ml / 6fl oz single cream 2 hours 30 minutes, until the apples are tender. 125ml / 4.5 fl oz apple juice Remove the apples from the cooker and keep warm. Drain the sauce into a small saucepan, bring to the boil then simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring continuously until it thickens. Pour the sauce over the apples and serve.

18 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements Leave these apples in your slow-cooker and return home from an autumn walk to a tasty treat home improvements

COOKERY DEMONSTRATIONS SOLIHULL TOWN CENTRE STREET FOOD ● BARS @SOLIHULLBID #SOLFOODFEST KIDS ZONE ● LIVE MUSIC CBEEBIES KATY ASHWORTH THE BIG ALE TRAIL

FREE ENTRY TO FESTIVAL FOR INFORMATION ON OBTAINING TICKETS AND PRICES FOR THE BIG ALE TRAIL AND SEATS FOR THE DAVE MYERS KITCHEN DEMO, VISIT OUR WEBSITE. TICKETS PURCHASED FOR THE DAVE MYERS KITCHEN DEMO SEATS WILL BE ENTERED INTO A PRIZE DRAW, VARIOUS PRIZES TO WON WWW.SOLIHULLBID.CO.UK 20 Mention the Knowle & Dorridge Directory when responding to advertisements home improvements

COOKERY DEMONSTRATIONS SOLIHULL TOWN CENTRE STREET FOOD ● BARS @SOLIHULLBID #SOLFOODFEST KIDS ZONE ● LIVE MUSIC CBEEBIES KATY ASHWORTH THE BIG ALE TRAIL

FREE ENTRY TO FESTIVAL FOR INFORMATION ON OBTAINING TICKETS AND PRICES FOR THE BIG ALE TRAIL AND SEATS FOR THE DAVE MYERS KITCHEN DEMO, VISIT OUR WEBSITE. TICKETS PURCHASED FOR THE DAVE MYERS KITCHEN DEMO SEATS WILL BE ENTERED INTO A PRIZE DRAW, VARIOUS PRIZES TO WON WWW.SOLIHULLBID.CO.UK To advertise call Zoe on 07557 220585 or [email protected] February 2017 21 useful services

Care and Nursing at Home

Do you need a Helping Hand? If you are looking for an alternative to residential care or extra support for those everyday tasks that are becoming difficult for you or a loved one – then we’re here to help in Solihull from 30 minutes per week to full-time live-in Care.

Our care teams have been providing award-winning quality home care since 1989 and can help with: personal care, housekeeping, help getting around or even to provide a break to an existing family member or care-giver.

Looking for care? For more information 0121 514 6797 www.helpinghands.co.uk

22 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements useful services

Become a CAREGiver with Home Instead

Do you have a warm heart and caring nature? Then you sound perfect for us. We are always recruiting for CAREGivers to work with our lovely clients.

Tel: 01564 330 395 or 0121 270 4615 www.homeinstead.co.uk/solihull

Each Home Instead Senior Care© franchise office is independently owned and operated. Copyright © Home Instead 2017.

bluebird care solihull Expert care in the comfort of your own home.

• Companionship, help around the home, cooking meals • Personal care such as helping with showering, shaving, getting up in the morning and getting to bed at night • Your own dedicated care staff, carefully selected • 2017 customer survey: 100% would recommend us to a friend. 100% said Bluebird care was superior to or better than their previous company Tel: 0121 711 7435

Email [email protected] www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/solihull

To advertise call Zoe on 07557 220585 or [email protected] September 2017 23 cleaning services

NEW!! instant customised online quote & booking Instant quote & booking with Merry Maids ORDER ONLINE * Build your clean, your way. NEW online shop & get 15% OFF when using discount code ‘Solilaunch15’ Whatever your idea is of time well spent, we’re pretty sure it doesn’t include cleaning. That’s our job. Merry Maids give you back the time you want to concentrate on the things that you enjoy. • Trained & uniformed teams • Insured for your protection • Satisfaction guaranteed • Equipment & supplies provided Contact Merry Maids on 0121 340 3150 .co.uk *when you book online and use the discount code ‘Solilaunch15’. Valid until 31/08/2017 with Merry Maids of Solihull. Offer must be used at the time of booking. Only valid for new customers. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Allow us to ease the pressure of keeping up with your domestic chores

We are your extra pair of hands!

• Flexible cleaning service – ranging from one-off spring cleans to regular cleans with your own dedicated lady.

• More than just a cleaning business – let us help with ironing, shopping, in fact most household tasks. The list is endless …. Just ask! We have full • Our team have many years experience and have been comprehensive carefully vetted and interviewed in their own homes. public & employers liability • We are proud of the standards our team work to and all ladies insurance have an excellent reputation within the local area.

Please give me a call to chat through your requirements. Call Lorna on 0785 4071892 [email protected] Providing a bespoke service, designing Providing rooms and wet modern and stylish bathrooms of our customers. the desires speci cally to 24 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements useful services Providing a bespoke service, designing Providing rooms and wet modern and stylish bathrooms of our customers. the desires speci cally to To advertise call Zoe on 07557 220585 or [email protected] September 2017 25 home improvements

EXPERTS IN THE DESIGN, BUILD, INSTALL AND SERVICING OF FIRES AND FIREPLACES.

BROUGHTON FIREPLACES WOODGLOW FIREPLACES

At Woodglow we make fireplaces to suit your requirements – any shape, any size, any style, any colour. We are an established family-run business that have been trading for over 20 years.

Come and visit us at our showroom in Olton Hollow and see what we could do for you. 0121 707 2306 59 Warwick Road, Olton, Solihull B92 7HS Open Monday to Saturday 10am – 5pm

26 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements home improvements

To advertise call Zoe on 07557 220585 or [email protected] September 2017 27 Hotlobster2 A5.pdf 1 9/04/14 6:39 PM

Useful Services

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20 The Solihull Directory Email: [email protected]

0102 - Solihull Dir_April 2014.indd 20 11/04/14 10:47 AM Hotlobster2 A5.pdf 1 9/04/14 6:39 PM

Useful Services home improvements

Does your website look old and dated?

Hotlobster Design offers you up-to-date websites to replace your tired ones.

Bespoke content managed websites are cheaper than you think. Call now for a chat about your website, social media & marketing needs.

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To 20advertise The Solihull call Zoe Directory on 07557 220585 or [email protected]: [email protected] May 2017 29

0102 - Solihull Dir_April 2014.indd 20 11/04/14 10:47 AM usefulbook reviews services a good read reviews By Willow Coby The First Phone Call Tom’s Midnight Garden from Heaven by Mitch Alom by Philippa Pearce

One day a phone rings, When you are born you occupy a small slot within then another one, and history and for that another. Now a small period of time you live church in a small town your life in your own in Michigan needs to way. But how much deal with the question of thought do you give what really happened. to those people who And it is only a matter of came before you? time before the country, Your house or your and the world, is asking school now may have the question too. been someone else’s All the calls house or school; a have one thing in place where someone common: the callers else grew up and had are deceased and want to tell their loved hopes for the future. ones about heaven; to tell them that death Tom is getting ready is not the end. The town becomes a place to enjoy his summer of pilgrimage for people who are desperate holiday when his older brother comes down with to hear from their own friends and family. measles. To ensure that he doesn’t catch it, Tom Of course, some are sceptical. Single father is sent to stay with an aunt and uncle who live in Sully – still grieving for his wife – is concerned a small flat at the top of a large old house. This when his young son starts asking why his is not how he imagined spending the summer. mum hasn’t phoned him. So he sets out to One night he is lying in bed, unable to sleep, unearth the true source of the phone calls. when he hears the old grandfather clock in the This touching novel is beautifully written and house chiming. He counts the chimes. 9 … 10 builds to a page turning climax. Will Sully … 11 … 12 … 13. And so the most amazing and find out where the calls are coming from? magical summer of Tom’s life begins as he meets Or are they really coming from heaven? Hatty, a young girl who wears strange clothes. Ultimately, the novel isn’t about where they This 1958 novel is a children’s classic and is came from. In fact it doesn’t really matter. Alom frequently rated as one of the best children’s draws on our natural fear, not of our own deaths novels published since the war. It is inspiring but of losing a loved one. What he offers is a with its message that life is to be lived to story of a group of people who draw hope and the full and reminds children that even comfort from these seemingly miraculous events. their grandparents were young once. And that is the inspiring message from this book. Maybe heaven exists, and maybe it doesn’t, but whether you believe or not, you can still take something from this thought provoking novel.

30 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements puzzle time

WIN 2 tickets to see The Electric Strawbs Thursday 19th October The Core Theatre, Solihull (formerly Solihull Arts Complex)

For your chance to win these tickets, worth £40, visit the Core Theatre website page for this event - www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk - to find the answer to this question:

What time does the show start? Email your answer to: [email protected] – and please put ‘Electric Strawbs’ as the subject line Closing date for entries is 30th September and the winner will be drawn at random and notified by email after this date.

About the Show: Dave Cousins fronts the show, and in addition to long-time regulars Dave Lambert and Chas Cronk, the Electric Strawbs are proud to have Tony Fernandez on drums, and Dave Bainbridge on keyboards. All in all, this is an impressive combination of terrific talent to showcase some enduring compositions. With their deep roots and immense creativity, the Electric Strawbs offer a show just too good to miss.

31 Mention the Knowle & Dorridge Directory when responding to advertisements 10% OFF all orders if you quote reference KDM. Windows, Doors and Conservatories Mainstream is a specialist manufacturer of high quality windows, doors & conservatories. We have a huge range of products including bifold doors, orangeries, glass extensions, pvc and upvc windows.

Over 20 Years Experience The Personal Touch High Quality Standards For over 20 years, our Our company is owned and We pride ourselves on attention award-winning FENSA run by three experienced to detail, and all of our products regulated firm has successfully directors that work in a are manufactured ‘in-house’ at manufactured and supplied ‘hands-on’ role. No job is too our Head Office in the West windows, doors and small or too large for us and if Midlands. And the same goes conservatories to our clients. you are looking for something for our fitters – they are our own different, we can make trusted staff, with many years’ bespoke products just for you. experience between them. Come and see our new high performance Origin Aluminium Windows and doors.

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1018/1020 Yardley Wood Road, Yardley Wood Birmingham B14 4BW Office Tel: 0121 430 9150 home improvements A-door-able! UPVC & Bifold Doors to Suit All Applications

Mainstream Windows is a UPVC Doors Composite Doors leading supplier of all types UPVC doors are available in As their name suggests, of replacement domestic a wide range of colours and they are made up from UPVC & Aluminium Bifold finishes and their comparative several different materials to doors. Whether you are lower cost to alternative produce a robust, secure and looking for a new front materials has made them attractive-looking to protect entrance, back entrance popular in recent years. They your home. The combination or garage options, also have other benefits, of materials, such as PVC, Mainstream’s expert team such as a higher resistance wood, insulating foam and can advise you on the best to weathering and generally GRP (glass reinforced plastic) product to suit your property, require less maintenance results in a product that is very lifestyle and budget. strong and requires no painting or varnishing to keep it looking or front entrance good over its long lifetime. An and back entrance, occasional wipe with a damp there are three main cloth is all that is needed to types of products keep it clean and retain its used in homes today – smart appearance. Fwooden, UPVC and composite doors. Porches

Bifold doors Bifold doors are built to stack neatly to one or both sides of an aperture when open. This allows people to move freely from inside to outside or from one room to another. These can be used as room dividers or to open onto a balcony or terrace.

To advertise call Zoe on 07557 220585 or [email protected] September 2017 33 useful knowledge stranger danger What should you do when someone you don’t know is at your door?

If you have a peephole, phone directory and make Extra advice for use it to vet any callers. the caller wait with the door flat-dwellers If you don’t have a peephole locked and the chain on Do not automatically buzz use a chain. A door chain is while you make the phone open the main door if a very useful for elderly people. call. Beware of anyone who caller buzzes up to your Have one fitted and use it. protests at your caution or apartment with a plausible Never let strangers into your treats it with contempt. sounding excuse. house unless you have If you are doubtful dial 999 Never hold the door open checked their credentials. and explain your suspicions for a stranger whose If the caller gives you a If you are still unsure politely arrival coincides with your phone number to ring be but firmly refuse entry. departure. Don’t worry about suspicious. The person on Always close and lock your appearing rude. Simply smile the other end may be their door before going to look for and cite security. Innocent accomplice. Check in the your purse or anything else. people will understand. tattoo removal If you regret getting a tattoo, you’re not alone. ccording to laser energy is harmless, and removing them is not always findings by the only targets the pigmented straightforward and it can be British Association skin, leaving the un-inked an uncomfortable procedure. A of Dermatologists, surrounding skin unharmed. The lasered area will need to almost a third of people Multiple sessions are needed be treated with antibacterial regret their tattoos. to break down the tattoo ointment, kept clean and Laser treatment is widely depending on the size and covered with a bandage. regarded as being the scope of the affected area. New technology has reduced most effective method of There are different laser the side effects of tattoo removal. The laser injects the types which will depend removal but the risks haven’t skin with intense light, which on the age, colour and been eliminated entirely. breaks up the ink particles intensity of the tattoo. The biggest danger is a risk causing the tattoo to fade. Treatments are normally of infection and scarring. The body’s immune system scheduled at least three The best way to reduce the removes the broken-down weeks apart. As tattoos are risks is by choosing a trained, pigments over time. The designed to be permanent experienced specialist.

34 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements christmaspuzzle survival time stranger danger crossword clues

tattoo removal

answers on page 37

To advertise call Zoe on 07557 220585 or [email protected] September 2017 35 useful numbers useful numbers

Health NHS non-emergency 111 LOCAL COUNCILLORS SILHILL Grove Surgery 0121 705 1105 Margaret Bassett Northbrook Group Practice 0121 746 5000 Tel: 0121 706 9045 [email protected] Hobs Moat Medical Centre 0121 742 5211 Solihull Hospital 0121 424 2000 Peter Hogarth MBE Tel: 0121 705 5455 Spire Parkway Hospital 0845 850 1451 [email protected]

Robert Hulland Council Tel: 0121 707 0493 Solihull Council 0121 704 6000 [email protected]

ST ALPHEGE Utilities Stuart Davis Electricity power cut 0800 6783 105 Tel: 01564 776293 [email protected] Gas leak 0800 111 9999 Severn Trent Water 024 7771 5000 Joe Tildesley Tel: 0121 705 3086 Severn Trent Water (emergencies) 0800 783 4444 [email protected]

Kate Wild Travel Tel: 07917 550 644 National Rail Enquiries 03457 48 49 50 [email protected] Network West Midlands (buses) 0345 303 6760

Councillor surgeries these are face-to-face meetings held by councillors for local people to raise issues in their area. Held at The Core Library, Solihull on the first and last Saturday of the month, 10am – 12 noon.

local police contact for Solihull Solihull police station

Telephone: 0845 113 5000

36 Mention the Solihull Index when responding to advertisements ad index

Architects Fascias & Gutters 9 Progression 01564 730191 27 Proline 0800 956 1315

Bathrooms Fireplaces 3 Bathrooms Galore 0121 783 9966 26 Woodglow 0121 707 2306 19 EH Smith 0121 713 7100 25 OT Bathrooms 0121 707 8612 Garden Centres / Services / Landscaping LOCAL COUNCILLORS Blinds / Curtains / Fabric 11 Dimension Landscape SILHILL 6 Tudor Rose Curtains 0121 445 2072 & Driveways 0121 733 1463 6 Soft Options 01564 783399 29 Oakland Group 0700 598 2828 Margaret Bassett Tel: 0121 706 9045 Car Services Graphic Design 1 Easylease 0121 693 0573 28 Hotlobster Design Ltd 0121 369 1977 [email protected] 38 Johnsons Cars 01564 454081 39 Crossroads Service Health & Beauty & Wellbeing Peter Hogarth MBE Station 01564 703225 7 The Cardio Shop 01527 854554 39 Steve Lane Cars 01564 822209 17 Daleswood Health 01675 489489 Tel: 0121 705 5455 40 Motorserv 0121 405 0904 [email protected] Kitchens Care Services 19 EH Smith 0121 713 7100 22 Helping Hands 0121 514 6797 Robert Hulland 23 Home Instead 0121 270 4615 Plumbing Tel: 0121 707 0493 23 Bluebird Care 0121 711 7435 14 Stephen Smith & Son 01564 200119 [email protected] Carpets Shopping 26 Don Mander 01564 700 200 7 The Cardio Shop 01527 854554 12 Hatton Shopping Village 01926 843411 ST ALPHEGE Central Heating / Gas Services / Boilers 14 Hoar Park 02476 394433 Stuart Davis 7 Stephen Smith & Son 01564 200119 15 Yew Tree Farm 01564 792701 Tel: 01564 776293 Cleaning Services Stairs [email protected] 23 Reach & Wash Window 27 Lyndale Stairs 01543 677780 Cleaning 07842 167986 24 Village Domestic Venue Hire Joe Tildesley Cleaning 07854 071892 14 Solihull Indoor Bowls Tel: 0121 705 3086 24 Merry Maids 0121 340 3150 Club 0121 709 2233 [email protected] Drives Windows & Doors 11 Dimension Landscape 10 BMT 0121 771 4999 & Driveways 0121 733 1463 32-33 Mainstream 01564 320013 Kate Wild Tel: 07917 550 644 Events 2 Nailcote Hall 02476 466174 [email protected] 6 Land Rover Sports & Social Club 0121 742 5490 13 Earlswood Garden & Landscape Centre 01564 702314 20-21 Solihull Food & Drink Festival

Suduko Solution Crossword Solution from page 35 from page 35

To advertise call Zoe on 07557 220585 or [email protected] September 2017 37 Johnsons Cars Trusted, Quality Service

Johnsons Knowle should be your first stop when looking for a pre-owned vehicle.

Every vehicle we sell has been sourced from within the Johnsons Group and checked over by one of our trained technicians, so you can have faith in the quality of each and every one of our vehicles on the forecourt.

Alongside our showroom on Station Road we also have a state-of-the-art workshop, offering a comprehensive range of aftersales services, from MOTs to fixed-price servicing on all models.

For Sales, Service or Parts enquiries call us today on 01564 454 051, or if you’re passing pop in for a coffee and one of our friendly team will assist you.

Johnsons Cars 25 Station Road, Knowle, Solihull, Call us today on 01564 454 051 West Midlands B93 0HL or visit us at johnsonscars.co.uk/knowle

Vehicles shown for illustration purposes only. Johnsons Dealerships LLP trading as Johnsons Cars (partnership No OC383295) is a subsidiary of Johnsons Cars Ltd, (registered in England No 3716766). Johnsons Dealerships LLP (Firm Reference Number: 512460), is an appointed representative of ITC compliance Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their registration number is 313486). auto services

Established 20 Years. All Usual Dealer Facilities. Open 7 Days a Week.

Steve Lane Cars are based in the leafy village of Tidbury Green, Solihull within easy reach of M42 Junction 3. Our aim is to make the process of purchasing your next car as enjoyable as possible. If we haven't the car you are looking for in stock, please call and we can locate it for you. We are licensed credit providers and experts in offering car and commercial finance, with access to the best rates from the country's leading providers. Our success has been built on customer retention and recommendation and we are confident you will be impressed with the individual, professional way we conduct business.

01564 822209 07970 901420 1 Lowbrook Lane, Solihull, B90 1QR

CROSSROADS SERVICE STATION LTD A friendly, family-run business since 1969

• MOT Testing – Cars & Motorbikes OPEN 6 DAYS • Servicing & Repairs • Air Conditioning Service & Repair A WEEK • Diagnostic Service & Repair MON – FRI 7.30am – 6pm • Laser Wheel Alignment Sat 7.30am – 1pm • Tyres – Supplied & Fitted MOT’s while you wait! • Quali ed & Experienced Sta • Courtesy Car or Collection/Delivery available

599-601 Tanworth Lane, Shirley, Solihull B90 4JE Tel: 01564 703225 www.crossroadservicestation.co.uk VAT No.: 113213041

To advertise call Zoe on 07557 220585 or [email protected] September 2017 39 JOIN 6,000+ MOTORISTS IN SOLIHULL SAVING UP TO 40% ON MAIN DEALER SERVICING AND REPAIR COSTS

Drop in and have a look around 0121 405 0904 NO PASS NO FEE Unit 26, Monkspath Business Park, Solihull, West Midlands, B90 4NZ

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QUALITY USED CARS • 6 month Warranty included UKs BEST GARAGE 2017 • 12 months Gold Membership offered with all cars: Free Service, 4 Valet Cleans, MOT, Wheel Alignment and Courtesy Car • Part exchange and finance options available • Cars also wanted - sell to us!

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