Community News

With just weeks to go until Christmas, Birmingham’s National Sea Life Centre is reminding people about the importance of responsible exotic pet ownership.

Often readily available in high street pet shops and considered the perfect festive gift by unassuming owners, terrapin turtles can be too challenging to take care of without sufficiently detailed research going into the challenges owning one requires.

James McElroy, Lead Reptile Keeper at the aquarium, said: “In the new year we are often inundated with calls about re-homing unwanted terrapins and turtles.

“Unfortunately it is becoming a more frequent occurrence at this time of year as animals are becoming more readily bought as Christmas gifts. Often people might not fully understand the challenges of looking after an exotic pet, and they buy young animals thinking they are cute and small, without considering the fact that these animals will often live for over 30 years, and require specialist tanks and equipment.”

In the early 1990s turtles became popular pets for fans of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle cartoon television series, which led to hundreds of boating lakes, canals and waterways in towns and cities becoming populated with terrapins and small turtles. As a result of the pet-trade, red-eared-slider turtles in particular are now considered to be one of the world's 100 most invasive species.

The specialist care for turtles can be underestimated prior to purchase, including the sheer size of the creatures. As baby turtles, the size of just a 50p coin, grow to mature adults the size of dinner plates, they develop more sophisticated dietary and accommodation needs, and it is at this point that they are more likely to become abandoned by owners unable to cope.

The National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham homes four species of terrapin, more than 50% of which were donated by the public as unwanted pets. Now full to capacity, the animal care team is urging people to give careful consideration before purchasing an exotic pet.

An innovative campaign enabling those who feel vulnerable in pubs and clubs to discreetly approach staff and get help is being launched in the City of Wolverhampton.

The Ask for Angela initiative, which will be operating at a number of pubs and clubs in the city centre, aims to reduce sexual violence and vulnerability by providing customers with a phrase they can use if they find themselves in an unsafe situation.

It encourages people to go to the bar and "Ask for Angela", which will alert staff to their cry for help and mean they can take action to defuse the situation. They will take the individual to one side or to a safer location away from the person causing the problem so that they can speak in confidence to staff about the situation and any help they may need.

Staff are encouraged to take action as appropriate, perhaps calling a taxi for the individual, contacting their friends or family or requesting that the person causing the distress – either through their actions, words or behaviour – leaves the venue.

Twelve pubs in Wolverhampton have already signed up for the scheme, launched by the City of Wolverhampton Council, West Midlands Police and Wolverhampton Pubwatch, including the Plough and Harrow, Lych Gate Tavern, Chicago Rock Cafe, Wheatsheaf, Old Still, Yates Wolverhampton, Hogshead, Slaters, Bohemian, Grain Store, Dog and Doublet and The Royal London.

Councillor Paul Sweet, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: "We want people to have a great time and feel safe and comfortable when they are out and about in our City's pubs and clubs, and this is a simple yet effective scheme which empowers them to seek help if they are feeling at all vulnerable by raising their concerns with staff.

"People might find themselves in the company of someone who is not who they seemed, and may want to get away from them safely and without any fuss. By going to the bar and asking for 'Angela', staff will be able to make sure this happens and help prevent the situation from becoming more serious.

"I would like to thank the pubs and clubs which are already part of the Ask for Angela scheme, and would encourage others to sign up so that people who find themselves in unsafe situations know they can get help in the event they need it.

“It is particularly appropriate that we are launching Ask for Angela during the Orange Wolverhampton campaign in support of the United Nations’ 16 days of activism to end violence against women and girls, as this is an excellent tool to help tackle gender-based violence.”

Donna Boden, General Manager at Yates Wolverhampton and Chair of Wolverhampton Pubwatch, said: “Ask for Angela is a great idea which will support young females who are feeling vulnerable. It’s great to see so many local businesses and networks coming together to a support such a fantastic scheme.”

Wolverhampton is only the third area in the country to offer the service, which was originally devised by Lincolnshire County Council.

There’s a magical winter wonderland at hospice supporter Dave Edwards’ house as he’s switched on 25,000 Christmas lights to raise money for two charities over the festive period.

Dave and his family have lit up their home and garden in Cheltenham Drive, Bromford, in the hope of collecting £1,000 for Birmingham’s John Taylor Hospice and the Alzheimer’s Society in Birmingham and Solihull.

The 26-year-old business owner has held his own illuminations for more than a decade and his sparkling displays have raised thousands of pounds for charities.

This is the third time Dave has chosen John Taylor Hospice to be a beneficiary of the extravaganza which features penguins, snowmen, reindeer, polar bears and, of course, Father Christmas.

It takes months of planning and weeks of installation to launch the spectacle which also includes a programmed light show in time to popular festive hits. The lights show is open until 1 January and all Dave asks in return is a donation to the chosen charities.

“I started working on it at the beginning of October but I don’t mind - it’s worth it because so many people enjoy it,” said Dave. “It all stems from a love of lights as a child. We used to go around and see people’s lights as a family and then we got one set, then two sets – and now we have 25,000 lights!”

Dave held his first illuminated extravaganza when he was just a teenager and each year he adds a little extra. And he’s keen for his hard work to raise money for local charities.

“This year’s I’ve chosen John Taylor Hospice and the Alzheimer’s Society, both for personal reasons because friends and family have been supported by them,” he said.

“We’d love as many people as possible to come and the lights will be on every day until 1 January. If we’re here, we will also open the garden so people can come in but, if not, you can still see them over the fence. The lights and music show is until 8pm and then the lights stay on until 10pm. I’m hoping to raise £1,000 this year so we’d ask everyone, if they can, to donate.”

John Taylor Hospice Community Fundraising Manager Kerry McGrath urged local people to support Dave’s efforts. “Dave does an amazing job putting the lights show together and raising so much money for worthy causes including his local hospice John Taylor,” she said. “We are really grateful to him for choosing to support John Taylor Hospice again – his hard work is helping us make all the difference for local families.”

Dave is one of many people across the city supporting John Taylor’s Gift a Christmas campaign which is aiming to raise £15,000 – enough to pay for all of the hospice’s services on Christmas Day.

As well as visiting Dave’s lights, people can support Gift a Christmas in a host of ways including buying hospice Christmas cards, holding a Christmas Jumper Day, organising a festive coffee morning or making donations in lieu of cards.

With Christmas around the corner, Edinburgh's landmark building at the top of the Royal Mile is Christmas ready.

The 12 foot Christmas tree in Cafe Hub provides a cheery atmosphere welcoming visitors to celebrate the holiday season with a festive themed afternoon tea for two, including seasonal favourites like homemade mince pies.

The new offering, designed for two people, offers the perfect opportunity to relax and take stock following a day of Christmas shopping on Edinburgh's Royal Mile and Old Town.

To accompany the delicate festive treats, guests can choose from a selection of artisan loose teas including earl grey, apple and cinnamon, Scottish rooibos, chocolate chilli explosion or freshly ground coffee.  The afternoon tea can also be enjoyed with a glass of prosecco.

Head Chef Denis Zominy said: “Afternoon tea sits between lunch and dinner just like The Hub sits between the castle and Holyrood Palace. When you need a little holiday indulgence at the half-way point we have the place to do it, and now the perfect refreshment as well.”

Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also be available if booked in advance.

Also on the festive menu for the holiday season is mulled wine, to warm up in this winter weather, coffee and two mince pies, and a apple winter warmer as a non-alcoholic alternative.

Ferry operator DFDS won a silver award in the Consumer Relations Campaign category at the CIPR Pride Awards for the North East, which was hosted in Newcastle on Friday 8 December.

The company won the accolade for its 'Freedom of Ferry Travel' campaign, which saw professional Red Bull and extreme sports free runners perform a series of stunts and free running tricks on board one of its Newcastle-Amsterdam ferries.

More than 950 entries were submitted for the awards from 337 companies, 604 campaigns, 14 teams and 48 individuals across the UK. The winners were selected by a panel of expert public relations professionals.

Michelle Ulyatt, PR Manager for DFDS, said: “We're thrilled to have won a silver award in the CIPR Pride Awards this year. The Freedom of Ferry Travel campaign was a huge success for us and we're delighted that it has gained recognition from industry experts.”

In mid-2016, DFDS identified an opportunity to attract a younger audience in the North East of England to the concept of travelling from the UK to continental Europe via ferry. Alongside their PR agency Rooster PR, the ferry operator looked at trends and content that had tended to go viral amongst that market and identified a campaign to target this audience.

Partnering with specialist film producers All Conditions Media and free runners Ryan Doyle (Red Bull) and Will Sutton (extreme sports), Rooster created a storyboard that allowed the athletes to show off their skills while showcasing the variety of services and facilities provided on DFDS' ferries.

The film achieved more than 117,000 views, raising awareness of the ferry brand. The content was featured in key regional, travel trade and specialist media titles, with a combined reach of 13,244,388.

A limited number of VIP tickets have gone on sale for the unmissable Christmas at Blenheim light trail. The special VIP package available from 22 – 23 December includes Fast Track Entry, First Entry onto the Trail, Exclusive VIP Packing at Flagstaff Car Park and Mulled Wine/ Hot Chocolate on the trail.

The VIP package, £50 per person, is available for the 4pm slot only on Friday 22 December and Saturday 23 December and must be purchased in advance.

Following fantastic reviews, the finest view in England is aglow once more until 1 January 2018. Blenheim Palace's 2000 acres of 'Capability' Brown landscape and Formal Gardens has been transformed into an illuminated wonderland with incredible projections, immersive soundscapes and interactive scenes.

The magical trail winds through the landscape, highlighting Blenheim Palace's rich history, all with the magic and wonder of the festive season. New and returning visitors can expect to see the trail take a different path, allowing them to discover and interact with the festive scenes and seasonal experiences in a new way.

The trail once more winds along the Great Lake, which will have four different scenes of floating brilliance including 300 illuminating boats crossing from side to side.

The iconic lake will also feature a giant Ducal crown, based on the Duke of Marlborough's own formal crown. The magnificently lit crown will tower above the audience with a 20m fountain erupting from its centre.

Once more the rushing Cascades will be transformed into a festive wonder, this time the giant waterfall will be covered in flames!

Enchanting for all, the creative take on Santa's toy workshop will see the Palace's lakeside Boathouse become a hive of activity. A small pause along the path with allow visitors to hear the sounds of elves busying away making toys for Santa to deliver on his sleigh on Christmas Eve.

The trail has been specially designed for visitors of all ages to enjoy. The Great Outdoors made magical.

At this time of the year, I’m normally preoccupied by working out what football games I’m covering for Radio 5 Live, and how much time I can get off to enjoy myself. The usual self-absorbed attitude of an adult not distracted by serious family concerns over health.

But this December, I’m glad to be able to raise my game, lift the scales from my eyes and consider how stressful Christmas can be for so many – thanks to a visit to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

Any decent individual will say all the right things about Christmas being such a taxing period for families visiting loved ones in hospital. We acknowledge it really isn’t the ‘Season To Be Jolly’ for them, thank goodness it doesn’t affect us – but what do we do about it? How many of us do something practical, instead of mouthing platitudes?

Well, here’s your chance to help some of the 100,000 patients that will be at QEHB over this festive period. Just £1 would go towards a pot of money that would provide some solace to those who have to be in hospital at the worst possible time.

There are so many fund-raising projects buzzing around at QEHB that will support all manner of people this festive period.

Throughout December, children will receive gruelling radiotherapy treatment for five days a week over six weeks. Every one of those will be given a toy from around the Christmas tree in the Radiotherapy Unit. Each floor of the hospital will have a tree, there’ll be hampers full of goodies to share around on the wards for those at the hospital on Christmas Day

Patients in hospital on Christmas Day can watch their favourite TV programmes free of charge, and car parking will be free, so that visitors can stay with their loved ones as long as they like on that special, emotional day.

Some young children will be bewildered and frightened by the unfamiliarity of being in hospital and will simply cling to their parents for solace. Others who are older will be only too aware of what challenges they are facing. The Teenage Cancer Trust Young Persons Unit at QEHB provides support for young people from the age of 16 to 24. They will know what lies ahead and why their treatment has to continue, no matter what day of the year it is.

But they won’t be forgotten on their ward, which will be handsomely decorated with gifts for everyone. Hopefully, it will be a distraction for them, alongside their families.

So here’s the nub of the matter. All this costs money. This year QEHB Charity’s Christmas Campaign hopes to raise £25,000 to fund some marvellous ways of helping so many get through their period in hospital at such an emotional time.

There are so many ways you can get involved and help to bring Christmas to the hospital.

The superb Birmingham Hospitals Carol Service is at St Philip’s Cathedral on 14 December, starting at 7pm. Festive songs, mulled wine, mince pies, serenaded by community choirs from around Birmingham.

Friday December 15 is Festive Jumper Day – a chance to look very silly at work, while raising money. Show off your favourite Christmas jumper at your school or office – the more gaudy the better! – and donate £1 to QEHB Charity’s Christmas Campaign.

The Twelve Choirs of Christmas in the atrium will be only too pleased to keep singing carols, as long as you fill up the tins. They will be singing throughout the month of December, raising spirits and smiles in the hospital.

The Christmas Hub in the atrium will provide complete fundraising advice, as well as selling a wide range of Christmas merchandise.

If any companies want to get involved in the Christmas Campaign, they can sponsor a floor of the hospital for the Yuletide period. For £1,000 your company will have its logo on the Christmas tree and the hampers will also provide due acknowledgement.

Alternatively, for £250 your company could sponsor one of the twelve Christmas choirs throughout December, and help out with the bucket collection whilst they sing. In return, your company will be recognised on the Christmas Campaign website.

There’s a JustGiving page at qehbchristmas.org where you can make donations and read about

So why not support this valuable cause? I can guarantee that so many dedicated staff at QEHB, some of whom I met during my visit, would be hugely grateful for your generosity. Let’s together, make a difference to the lives of patients at QEHB this Christmas.

To learn more about the Christmas Campaign or to donate please go to qehbchristmas.org

On the 24th November 2017, His Imperial Majesty The Ooni of Ife visited Birmingham ahead of attending The Phoenix Newspaper Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation 2017 at the ICC Birmingham on the 25th November. During his itinerary he visited a number of important locations across the city, bringing with him his own inimitable flair and grace.

Nehemiah UCHA

A proud, yet humbled, Ms McLaughlin by his side – aided by TPN Media Chair, Dr Neslyn Watson-Druee - The Ooni would fire excitement and huge anticipation with his first visit, to Nehemiah UCHA, a retirement living scheme, in Aston.

Enabled by Dr Beverly Lindsay OBE OD VLL, the meeting at Nehemiah’s Plummers House shared best practices of assisted living and retirement schemes which the Ooni stated would be good to take back to Ile-Ife to improve the situtation over there.

Following a showing of respect by his Kings and Chiefs, His Imperial Majesty heard about the history of the organisation from Jimmy Ogunshakin, Chairman of Nehemiah UCHA, and Llewellyn Graham, Chief Executive of Nehemiah UCHA and was introduced to Plummer House Scheme Manager Beverley Ramhi before being taken on a tour of the assisted living.

“It was a real honour and very humbling indeed to have been included in His Imperial Majesty’s tour of the West Midlands – and it was our absolute pleasure to meet him and show him around Plummer House,” Llewellyn Graham, Chief Executive of Nehemiah UCHA, says.

The Royal party was given a tour of Plummer House, one of seven retirement schemes and Nehemiah UCHA’s earliest founded scheme, built in 1991. The scheme underwent an extensive refurbishment programme in 2016, benefiting all 37 self-contained flats that house older people, aged 55 and over.

Birmingham City University

At Birmingham City University, in the presence of world renowned former cellist Julian Lloyd Webber, Principal of Birmingham Conservatoire, which is part of BCU, plus other dignitaries including; Satinder Kaur Taunque OBE DL, Dr Beverly Lindsey OBE OD VL, BCU chair, Keith Stokes-Smith (also chair of Birmingham Commonwealth Association), His Imperial Majesty was warmly received.

“Your Royal Highness, you exude love, harmony and hope,” said Dr Neslyn. “And TPN Media gives value to connecting communities as Marcia continues to do wonders as she continues to be a mountain in all our communities.

The Ooni’s visit would provide an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the large number students of Nigerian/African descent at the seat of learning.

“Birmingham City University is testimony of the multicultural diversity of the city as a whole,” he said. “It’s an honour to be here at BCU. I thank the Vice-Chancellor for taking his time to welcome all of us to this beautiful University. It’s a great honour and we will not forget what you done for us.

"We are proud to be associated with this University and to be in the thoughts and feelings of your students who are potential leaders of our great country of Nigeria and the entire Black race.”

Birmingham City University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Philip Plowden, said: “Our Nigerian scholars are integral to our diversity and success going forward.

“The visit by His Imperial Majesty is a chance for us to reflect on our collective past, present and future, and celebrate the success of our Nigerian students, both here and in their home country.

“I hope this visit will mark the beginning of even more fruitful partnerships between Birmingham City University and Nigeria, and the Yoruba people in particular.” Speeches were also given by Oluwadamilola Adebambo, President of the Nigerian Society at Birmingham City University Students’ Union (BCSU) and Akin Babasanya, University alumnus and President of the Yoruba Descendants in the Midlands. It is thought there are almost 100,000 Yoruba people currently living in the UK.

His Imperial Majesty. spoke of the historic significance of Africa and appealed for global unity. “Africa is the next frontier if the entire world. It is a continent that everyone has a stake in. All of humanity has a stake in it.

“Everyone has a cot there, that’s where the entire history of mankind began,” he said. “We belong to one big happy family and that’s what we should preach.”

Following his speech, the Vice-Chancellor announced, that in the Ooni’s honour, a series of partial scholarships would be made available to prospective Yoruba students commencing their studies in 2018 at Birmingham City University.

The scholarship, based on merit, was further marked by the exchange of a commemorative plate from the Vice-Chancellor to His Imperial Majesty.

The event at Birmingham City University concluded with a performance from a Nigerian student at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

Classical singer John Eclou from Edo State was accompanied by pianist postgraduate Stefanos Politsakis before gifts were exchanged on stage.

“I hope today will mark the beginning of even more fruitful partnerships between Birmingham City University and Nigeria, and the Yoruba people in particular,” Professor Plowden said.

The Lord Mayor & Birmingham City Council

His impact took on greater awareness when his entourage, led by the ever-present band of hearty musicians, marked his presence at Birmingham City Council.

It’s the 18th Anniversary of the ever-popular German Market, in Birmingham, and even the thousands of revellers there, and stall holders, stood to attention to greet the royal entourage.

“I feel blessed to be able to witness Royalty in our midst,” one on-looker said. Explaining the present structure and future strategy of Nigeria, on a world stage, The Ooni said: “We must make provisions for a growing population with extensive amounts of money going towards our youth.”

On an eco-political stance, he went on: “With Birmingham being the centre for gold, in particular, and jewellery in general, the links between us two can be unending. “We just have to remain transparent with our minerals and raw materials.”

Continuing, he said: “As the ‘Mirror of Africa,’ we have to be more pro-active with Birmingham-based companies setting up in Nigeria – through trade missions and the likes.``

“With oil and gas already prominent in the country, we are in a position to open more commercial properties on a grander scale.

“After all, the largest diamond bolder in world history was found in the Yoruba kingdom and originally used to light up that country.

“Now we are looking to open strategic partnerships to work with us…not abuse us, and also create exchange programmes that would be mutually beneficial.”

“Connections with the commonwealth is vital for all parties,” was the Council’s reply. “It’s about what we can deliver to you as well as what you can to us.

“We are happy and willing to discuss a focal point to work from.” A commitment endorsed by Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Industry CEO, Jerry Blackett, who highlighted the city’s “big appetite to explore new opportunities since Brexit.

“After all, when British people first visited Nigeria the first people they came across were the Yoruba people.”

An opportunity it was for His Royal Highness to, as he did at his previous visits, present a gift to Birmingham Lord Mayor, Councillor Anne Underwood; a bronze embossed framed figurine depicting the history of the Yoruba Kingdom in Nigeria and worldwide. TPN Media chair, Dr Neslyn, added: “We look to the future with a new vision and understanding with us at the forefront.”

Yoruba Descendants Midlands

As part of The Phoenix Newspaper’s itinerary for His Imperial Majesty The Ooni of Ile Ife, the King visited a Yoruba Descendants Midlands gathering in Birmingham.

Meeting with the members of YDM, lead by Mr Stephen Akin Babasanya, the Ooni felt at ease and comfortable as he laughed and jokes, speaking the Yoruba language all the way. It was a lovely slice of home for His Imperial Majesty, before retiring back to his hotel with his hosts, TPN Media and his entourage of Kings and Chiefs.

In attendance were John Okundaye of Jecom and Co Accountants, and Olusegun Dosumu, Professor at Newman University and Doctoral Researcher at Birmingham City University.

Nishkam Centre & GNNSJ

On the morning of the 25th November, mere hours before he was to attend The Phoenix Newspaper 7th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation at the ICC, His Imperial Majesty, The Ooni of Ife arrived at the Nishkam Centre on Soho Road.

With a congregation standing waiting in white for the King, he was received by Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh OBE KSG, Chairman of the centre.

Presented with flowers, signifying love and warm welcome, he was ushered into the Gurdwara where he was shown around, offering flowers and prayers at various points within the Gurdwara.

The Ooni offered and presented a flower to the center as a sign of love and peace in return.

It was a remarkable visit for His Imperial Majesty as the centre was well built and decorated with gold. The Nishkam Centre is a Sikh faith-led organization working for the benefit of all communities.

The organisation is known for its mission to enrich mundane life through the practice and promotion of the Sikh values which is earning an honest living, sharing and active volunteering that are embedded in their spiritual and Dharmic heritage.

The Ooni and his entourage enjoyed Langar, the sharing of food that is available to everyone at the Gurdwara every day regardless of status, religion or race. His Imperial Majesty was later entertained with a warm reception to show appreciation of his visit to Nishkam Centre.

He was presented with various gifts in recognitions of his visit and His Imperial Majesty in a swift reaction made a presentation to the Centre itself for their kind gesture done to him and his entourage.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea echoed to the sounds of Christmas today as the nation’s favourite veterans began their annual festive celebrations with Shropshire cheese.

The Chelsea Pensioners joined in a ceremonial celebration of British cheese as Belton Farm cheesemaker from Shropshire kindly donated 24.8kg of cheese, including red and white fox vintage, mature Cheshire, red Leicester and double Gloucester to the hospital, enough to feed a small army.

Vintage era singers Verity and Violet helped the pensioners get in the festive spirit with renditions of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and Santa Claus is Coming to Town.

Cheese has been a favourite among British soldiers serving on the front line for centuries. The Chelsea Pensioners today consider the Ceremony of Christmas Cheeses the start of their Yuletide celebrations.

British cheesemakers donated an impressive 514lbs worth of the finest quality cheeses from around the UK. This year, the ceremonial cheese was a giant 53lbs of Montgomery Cheddar which was cut by In-Pensioner Leo Tighe, aged 74.

Leo joined the Army in 1959 and served in the Irish Guards for 25 years, attaining the rank of Warrant Officer Class 2.  During his service, he was deployed to East Africa, Hong Kong, Germany, Belize and the Middle East.  Following outstanding service in Jordan, he was honoured to be awarded the British Empire Medal.

On leaving the Army in 1985, In-Pensioner Tighe became the Facilities Manager with the Aon Corporation, before moving to Watson-Wyatt Ltd.  He became a Chelsea Pensioner in January 2016 and along with his colleagues feels deeply privileged to represent the Royal Hospital throughout London and overseas.

He said: “It is a great honour to take part in this wonderful ceremony, especially as it involves one of my favourite foods. I am extremely proud to be representing my fellow In-Pensioners here at the Royal Hospital today. We cannot thank the cheesemakers enough for their generous contributions. Every year we look forward to receiving this delicious Christmas gift, now it’s time to enjoy it.”

Chelsea Pensioner Mike Shanahan and Arthur Currie also took part in the celebrations. In-Pensioner Mike Shanahan served as a Piper in the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, where he remained until 1968, when his regiment amalgamated with the Royal Ulster Rifles to become the Royal Irish Rangers.  Following his service, he became a paramedic and was also a trainer on the First Aid Panel’s National Training Team.  He worked jointly with his wife in the Army Cadet Force, where he rose to the rank of Major.

Mike added: “Cheese has always been an important part of our diet and the cheese ceremony is one of the most loved events in our calendar.”

Ash Amirahmadi, chairman of The Dairy Council, said: “Cheesemakers across the UK have a great tradition of paying tribute to the courage and contribution made by our war veterans, and this year they certainly didn’t disappoint.

“Cheese is a food of the forces. It has been included in soldiers’ rations for centuries and that says it all – from its nutritional value to its much-loved taste, we have a great British product. Good food and song go well together, and Verity and Violet did a wonderful job in spreading some festive cheer to our favourite veterans today.”

Wolverhampton city centre will burst into life with the sights and sounds of its first official Victorian Christmas Market on Friday week.

The festive three-day market will be delivered by the council’s approved market operator LSD Promotions, and will take place on Friday, December 15 (10am-9pm), Saturday 16 (10am-9pm) and Sunday 17 (10am-5pm).

It will be located on Wulfruna Street, the Civic Centre Ceremonial car park, St Peter’s car park and the pedestrian area outside the University of Wolverhampton’s Ambika Paul building.

More than 100 stalls will fill the streets at the heart of the city with the colours, sounds and irresistible aromas of Christmas.

Set to the backdrop of a Victorian funfair the offer includes a variety of traditional and international street food, local produce, seasonal handcrafted and home-baked goodies, bespoke Christmas decorations and holly wreaths, festive novelties and exclusive gifts, accessories and jewellery.

Entertainment will include street artists, choirs, vocalists, instrumental performances, chimney sweeps, dance displays, and Victorian themed stilt walkers.

City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Environment, Councillor Steve Evans, said: “We anticipate this will be the largest festive market the city has seen.

“There will be a variety of stalls offering festive goodies, plenty of food and drink, and fun activities for families to enjoy at this special time of year.

“It is also the ideal opportunity to make a day of it and visit Wolverhampton’s attractions, range of independent retailers and High Street names, or take the weight off your feet and relax in one of the city’s cafes, pubs and restaurants.”

Organiser Dermot McGillicuddy, LSD Promotions Director, added: "This will be an exciting event for the city and we are proud to be working in partnership with the council to provide this special market at Christmas time.”

Churches across the West Midlands are inviting their local communities to come together and bring the promise of Christmas to some of the UK’s most vulnerable children by supporting their Christingle celebration in aid of The Children’s Society.

A number of services are being held throughout December and beyond. Everyone is welcome to join the festivities and all money raised will go towards helping the children the charity works with, including those who go missing from home or experience hardship, abuse and neglect.

Families and communities are welcome to come and celebrate together at the festive spectacle, which revolves around the lighting of Christingles - oranges decorated with a candle, red ribbon, dried fruits and sweets on cocktail sticks. These items highlight different parts of the Christian story. A Christingle event is an opportunity for people of all ages to join in, light a candle and enjoy the warmth and delight of this special festive occasion.

Christingle has been taking place for almost half a century with around one million people attending each year. It plays a huge role in supporting The Children’s Society’s vital work to help some of this country’s most vulnerable young people, with over £1 million raised at Christingle events each year.

Matthew Reed, Chief Executive of The Children’s Society, said: “It’s fantastic that so many Christingle events are happening across West Midlands to help vulnerable children and we’re truly grateful to everyone who attends for their support.

“For many young people experiencing huge challenges in their lives the only promise of Christmas is that the bad things in their lives will feel much worse. Some will feel so unsafe, unloved, and unable to cope that they’ll run away from home. These Christingle events make it possible for us to support these young people to have better lives and make a real difference to the children in need of our help.”

700 Santas took part in Birmingham St Mary’s Jingle Bell Jog this month (DECEMBER) – beating last year’s numbers by more than 200 participants.

The festive fun run took place at Birmingham Moseley Rugby Club on Sunday 3 December and saw hundreds of runners dressed as Mr and Mrs Claus take on the 2.5k and 5k routes.

The Santas – who were given their suits and busy white beards by the Hospice – could choose to run, jog or walk the course and were rewarded with a medal and tasty mince pie once they crossed the finish line.

There was also a festive market at the event, so merry runners and spectators could pick up Christmas crafts and last minute gifts.

Catherine Haines from Selly Park said: "This was our first time as a family on a charity run and we loved it. The atmosphere was great and even our three-year-old wanted to run and not sit in her push chair. She is showing off her medal to all her nursery friends. We'll definitely sign up again for next year!"

This year’s Jingle Bell Jog is on track to raise an impressive £20,000, beating last year’s £15,000. All money raised will go towards the Hospice, which provides vital care and support to local families living with terminal illness.

Lucy Watkins, events manager at Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice, said: “The Jingle Bell Jog really does kickstart the festive season and it was fantastic to see so many Santas join us for our event. Everyone seemed to be in the Christmas spirit on the day and it’s wonderful to hear why so many people are supporting our hospice.

“Thank you to everyone that put on a Santa suit and got jogging for Birmingham St Mary’s – your support will make a big difference to local families living with terminal illness. It will cost £22,000 to run our services this Christmas Day, so we truly rely on the support of local people to ensure we can care for everyone that needs us, whenever they need us.”

Every day, Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice supports 350 individuals across Birmingham and Sandwell – whether it’s at the Hospice, in people’s homes or in the local community.

The Jingle Bell Jog is part of Birmingham St Mary’s ‘Care a Christmas’ campaign – a festive appeal which aims to boost support for the charity leading up to and over the Christmas period.

In the lead up to Christmas, the independent crime-fighting charity, Crimestoppers, is today appealing to the public for information on those making, buying or selling counterfeit banknotes.

In the first half of 2017, over 237,000 worthless counterfeit banknotes with a notional value of over £4.88 million were removed from the UK’s streets.

While less than 1% of notes in circulation are counterfeit, this is not a victimless crime. Many retailers, businesses, schools, charities and the elderly have been conned out of money using fake notes.

Christmas is a time when more cash changes hands, especially £20 and £50 notes, and fraudsters take advantage of the festive season by targeting busy shops with temporary staff.

Incidents include scammers tricking innocent members of the public into swapping fake £20 notes for two genuine £10 notes, and businesses being left out of pocket if they take a counterfeit note.

Counterfeit notes are also known to be linked to serious and organised criminal gangs. One gang was sentenced to over three years’ imprisonment for the manufacture of £320,000 worth of fake notes. In another more recent case, three men were prosecuted after £40,000 of fake notes were found in a Kent property that was also used to supply cannabis.

As well as raising public awareness of fake banknotes, in October Crimestoppers partnered with the Bank of England to launch the Banknote Checking Scheme. Aimed at cash-handling businesses, it promotes banknote checking at point of sale through targeted training, with the aim of reducing the number of counterfeit notes being accepted.

Further information on fake notes can be found on Crimestoppers’ web page at fakenotes.co.uk.

Director of Operations for Crimestoppers, Roger Critchell, said: “Fake notes are completely worthless and knowingly holding or passing on counterfeit notes is a crime”.

“The purpose of this campaign is to raise awareness of counterfeit money, especially around Christmas when money can be tight, but also to highlight how heartless and callous fraudsters can be when targeting their victims”.

“I’d ask that anyone with information on those selling counterfeit notes contact Crimestoppers anonymously, safe in the knowledge no one will know you spoke to us, and knowing you may have prevented someone’s Christmas from being ruined.”

Ben Crosland, Senior Manager of Banknote Engagement and Communications at the Bank of England, said: “The general public play an important role when it comes to reporting counterfeit currency. Campaigns like this and the recently launched Banknote Checking Scheme, are essential to encourage the public and businesses to help us and law enforcement stop the counterfeiters.”

If you have information on those making, selling or buying counterfeit notes then please contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through our Anonymous Online Form at crimestoppers-uk.org/give-info.

With Brexit looming, recent research suggests Brits are turning to traditional British comfort food more than ever before and further cementing the growing trend with seven in ten saying when given the choice they would always choose a product that was made in the UK.

The research conducted by Young’s Seafood polled 2,000 adults and revealed what Brits love so much about British food with over 60% citing the fact it is traditional and comforting. Not only do they feel love for these dishes but Brits even have an emotional reaction when they eat them with half expressing it makes them feel good and 45% reminding them of their childhood. It’s not surprising then that 1 in 5 voted fish fingers, beans and chips as their favourite British meal, a classic childhood dish.

A whopping 98% of Brits agreed that family meal times are important with Roast chicken, fish and chips and Shepherds pie, all making the top 10 line up of favourite British meals. 62% voted British food as the best in the world with prawn cocktail, a full roast chicken dinner and apple and blackberry crumble voted the ultimate three course meal.

When it comes to cooking traditional cuisine over three quarters enjoy cooking traditional British meals with Mum being the sole teacher at 58%, but nearly half having taught themselves how to rustle up these types of dishes.

A traditional meal wouldn’t be complete without a British favourite, with the survey further revealing a list of favourite British brands that include Heinz, Warburton’s, Young’s Seafood and Marmite – all of which take pride of place on kitchen tables all over the country.

A spokesperson for Young’s Seafood said: “It’s great to see most Brits would choose products made in the UK and that you still cannot beat simple British classics like beans on toast or a fish finger sandwich. Young’s have been making delicious fish dishes here for over 200 years and are proud to be recognised as a favourite British brand still making the only branded fish finger in Britain.”