Editors Letter ~ 4Vintage Christmas ~ 5

German Market ~ 6 & 7The Shopping Guide ~8 & 9

Pantomimes ~10 & 11Grotto ~ 12 & 13

Canal Boat Rides ~14 & 15 Cinema Must See’s ~ 16 & 17

Homemade Treats ~18 & 19 Handmade Cards ~ 20 & 21

Creative Gift Wrapping and Gift Tags ~22 & 23

This is the very first edition of ‘Jingle Brum’. We

wanted to create a Christmas Magazine that was

unique and unlike anything else.

Ultimately we decided, due to the current economic

climate in the UK, to base the magazine on the idea

and concept of a ‘handmade’, cheaper approach to

Christmas 2011. We all know that times are hard at

the moment, and people are struggling with their

finances, and with Christmas being such an expensive

time of year, what better way to get back to your

creative side and make gifts and cards that are not

only fun to make and kinder on the back pocket, but

also much more heartfelt and rewarding.

Also, we wanted ‘Jingle Brum’ to be the perfect rep-

resentation of what Christmas is all about. Therefore,

we decided to have an old fashioned, vintage vibe

throughout the magazine, which will not only add to

the ‘handmade’ theory of the magazine, but would

also tie in with the current trend of ‘Vintage’ which is

becoming increasingly popular.

We really do hope that you are inspired by ‘Jingle

Brum’ and are keen to unleash your creativity in

order to have the most unique and personalised

Christmas you have ever had.

From all of the ‘Jingle Brum’ team, we sincerely wish

you all a truly magical Christmas, and we hope you

will get in touch with us soon.

Sophie Britton,

Editor.

WatchourIdent

Have you ever consid-ered why every year we desire a traditional Christmas? Why we tend to prefer a more outdated festive style? And just what it is that draws us back to our old fashioned roots? Well the answer is quite simple. Nostalgia.

In an increasingly tech-nical savvy world, where everything seems to be plain and ‘modern’, it be-comes very difficult for anything to stand out and have any real impor-tance. The sleek, clean, minimalist style makes everything blend into one huge insignificant blur. Consequently, we start to question this ‘chic’ approach of living, and realise a more traditional method is considerably more family friendly and almost definitely more Christmassy.

Christmas is the one and only time where families join together in harmony to celebrate the most wonderful and magi-cal day of the year. And what better way is there

be quirky and slightly inter-esting for about ten minutes, but is this really what we want our children to believe Christ-mas is all about?

It does not mat-ter how old you are, we all secretly want every Christmas to fill us with the same cheer that we had in our childhood.

Vintage spirit is eternal.

to spread some Christmas joy by sharing memories with your loved ones? After all, don’t we want our children to be as happy and fulfilled as we were back in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s? By remem-bering our own childhood memories, we are able to keep the true spirit of Christmas alive.

It isn’t about who gets the most expensive laptop, or who gets the biggest plasma screen TV; it’s about love, warmth, giv-ing and spreading joy. This is why we choose to go back to a more vin-tage style, decorating our homes with a tradi-tional tree, fairy lights, Father Christmases and nutcrackers. These items encapsulate the heart of what Christmas repre-sents. You simply do not get the same effect with the latest crazy inven-tions such as the ‘upside down Christmas tree’ and wacky tree decora-tions including, stilettos and top hats. They may

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before, with 180 stalls, (more than any previous year). This is sure to guarantee that magical, festive atmosphere that we have come to know and love.

This year, the grand opening of the much anticipated event will occur on Thursday 17th November and come to an end on Fri-day 23rd December, open-ing between 10am-9pm. The beautiful Christmas stalls will occupy New Street and Victoria Square for 5 weeks, selling a variety of mer-chandise such as, handmade toys, Christmas decorations, jewellery, craft goods and confectionary as well as tra-ditional German beer and of course, Frankfurters, or as we know them, hotdogs. The usual carousel will also be present to help keep young-

er guests entertained, as well as add-ing that extra Christmassy touch.

Visitors always look forward to the won-derful fayre which the event offers. In-

cluding, German mulled wine, German beer, Bai-leys hot chocolate, pretzels, grilled sausages, ginger-bread, crepes, marzipan sweets, chocolate covered strawberries and doughnuts. All of which are traditional German delicacies, not to mention absolutely deli-cious and totally irresistible.

Whats more, the centre of the market in Victoria Square is home to a tradi-tional bandstand where musicians perform every lunchtime and evening. In addition to this, groups

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market, or as it is more commonly known, the ‘German Market’ is the most popular outdoor Christ-mas Market throughout the whole of the UK; attract-ing people from all over the country. The market has become hugely popular, taking pride of place at the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.

Now celebrat-ing its tenth year, the Frank-furt Christmas Market is a must see on most people’s ‘to do’ lists. Growing i n c r e a s i n g l y popular year on year, the mar-ket is said to be bigger and bet-ter than ever

“bigger andbetter than

ever before”

of local carol singers and school children gather here to stage special performanc-es throughout the markets stay.

New Street Station is liter-ally a 5 minute walk from where the market begins in New Street. If you are trav-elling from out of town, it is probably best to come by train, as parking isn’t always guaranteed near the market and can also be quite ex-pensive. However if you do wish to travel by car, then use either Brunel Street, Brindley Drive, NIA, Civic Centre, Livery Street, Moat Lane or Dudley Street car parks. These are the most se-cure and will put your mind at rest while you explore the market.

SPECIAL OFFERSaturday 3rd December is a ‘Family Day’ at the Christ-mas Market with discounts

of up to 20% at many stalls or special 3 for 2 bargains. Look out for these fantastic offers on toys, jewellery and food and drink. Offers are open to all, so there’s no reason to miss out. For further information call: 0121 303 3008.

Alternatively you can visit www.visitbirmingham.com.

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Birmingham’s famous Bullring Shopping Cen-tre is right in the centre of the city. With its iconic Selfridges ‘bubble’ building, it’s not hard to miss. Attract-ing thousands of visitor’s everyday, the Bullring is one of the biggest and busi-est shopping centres in the country, housing over 160 retail stores. With Christ-mas drawing ever closer, it’s a perfect reason to under-take some retail therapy.

As well as the notorious Bullring, Birmingham also

has many other shopping facilities to offer. Vibrant markets and a world fa-mous Jewellery Quarter also make the city very at-tractive, providing you with everything you could pos-sibly need for a remarkable shopping experience.

Birmingham is a beauti-ful and compact city with plenty of bars and restau-rants to keep you going.

Vibrant markets and a world famous Jewellery Quarter””

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Full of fun and laughter, pantomimes are one of the only places your children don’t have to sit still and silent to watch a performance. They are en-couraged to participate by shouting, booing and even stamping their feet. With villains on stage hiding, the famous phrase “he’s behind you” is shouted, along with “oh no he isn’t” and “oh yes he is”. There are loud noises that make you jump, sweets thrown into the audience and there’s even a chance of getting wet, as the comic lead or villain plays around with a water toy. As well as surprises there is also the element of strangeness as there is always a funny dame with a very vibrant costume. Pantomimes are a highly entertaining and pleasurable christmas ac-tivity which every family can enjoy.

This year see’s the return of the classic story of Cin-derella. A magical story about a young woman who is forced to a life of servi-

tude, obeying the needs of her evil step mother and step sisters. Thankfully cinderella comes across a fairy God Mother who arranges a meeting with a prince. However, like most tales not everything goes as planned, as magic has its limits and time soon runs out. Will cinderella be able to escape her life as a servant?

Brian Conley is a well known television host and west end star. However he is not recognised for just this in Birmingham, as he has appeared in our pan-tomimes a record break-ing four times. This time he is returning to us as the lovable cheeky character Buttons, Cinderella’s best friend. With his funny wit and friendly personality, he will be the character your children relate to the most.

He is joined by other fa-mous faces, Loose Wom-en’s Lynda Bellingham and iconic childrens char-acter Basil Brush.

Sat 17 Dec - Sun 29 Jan

http://

ww

w.birm

inghamhippodrom

etickets.comtickets from

£26

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Children will adore the Santa’s Grotto at House of Fraser this year, with its enchanting theme of a winter wonderland complete with cheeky snowmen, playful elves and the jolly man in red himself.

A magical journeyassisted by his team of elves, Father Christmas will welcome children to his winter wonderland within the Ice Grotto. Children will receive a gift from the big man in-side the Santa’s Grotto at House of Fraser, amid a festive atmosphere which promises to add to chil-dren’s enjoyment of their special day.

With lots of exciting Christmas sights to see, the Winter Wonderland theme is brought to life to make the Santa’s Grotto truly special for kids and families.

For 2011 there will once again be a limited num-ber of tickets available to buy on the day, although

demand is likely to be high at this popular chil-dren’s attraction. Make sure you reserve your tickets in advance and take the little ones on a trip to House of Fraser this year to guarantee a mag-ical experience for all.

This year, each child’s experience at the Santa’s Grotto is expected to last around 30 minutes, in-cluding the visit with Fa-ther Christmas. The grot-to can be found on the 5th floor of House of Fraser.

Now open everyday until Christmas Eve, make sure your children don’t miss out on their chance to see the most magical man on Earth.

Price List £7.00 adults£3.00 kidsKids under the age of 2 go free

Open10am ~ 5:30pm Until 24th December A

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Looking to spend some quality time with your fam-ily this Christmas? Then why not go on a Canal Ride in Birmingham? If you want to let your children feel the warmth of Christmas, without spending a huge amount of money, then this activity is ideal for you. Your family can enjoy a canal ride as well as having a fantastic opportunity to learn about the city’s fasci-

nating history.

There is a range of boats departing just outside the International Convention Centre, which is located in the heart of Birmingham. You can find canal boats, party boats (for those ex-tra special occasion) and waterbuses operating just outside the ICC. Guided tours are also available around Silver Cross starting

at Gas Street Basin.

Canal rides depart daily, starting during the Easter Holidays right through to October half term, at 11.30am, 1.00pm, 2.30pm and 4:00pm. The route cov-ers Oozells Street, Icknield Port, the James Brindley Canal, a section of the Tel-ford Main Line, the area around the NIA (National Indoor Arena) and finally

Worchester Bar and Gas Street Basin before disem-barking at the ICC.

Apart from classic trips, they also have a special Christmas programme, of-fering an alternative Fes-tive lunch or dinner (Chef’s Homemade traditional menu) at affordable prices. The tour takes approxi-mately one hour around the city and licensed bars and

snacks are available. Free admission is available for all children under the age of 3. Family tickets start at just £15.00.

For more information please contact Birmingham Tours via email – enquiries@bir-mingham-tours.co.uk. Al-ternatively, call us on - 0121 427 2555

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FILM OF THE

WEEK

Here is a run down of the top 6 festive films for you and your family to go and see this Christmas.

All are guaranteed to leave you and your loved ones with that warm festive feel-ing, which will add to the excitement during the run up to Christmas.

Sherlock Holmes has al-ways been the smartest man in the room…until now. There is a new criminal mastermind at large, Pro-fessor Moriarty. Not only is he Holmes’ intellectual equal, but also his capac-ity for evil, coupled with a complete lack of con-science, may actually give him an advantage over the renowned detective.

When the Prince of Austria is found dead, the evidence,

as construed by Inspector Lestrade, points to suicide. But Sherlock Holmes de-duces that the Prince has been the victim of murder, a murder that is only one piece of a much larger and more ominous puzzle. The cunning Moriarty is always one step ahead of Holmes, as he spins a web of death and destruction. Will Hol-mes be able to save the day? Or has our hero finally met his match?

The eagerly awaited sequel to ‘Happy Feet’, the animated smash hit, ‘Happy Feet 2’ is due for release in a cinema near you on December 2nd. Your family will be sent on another chilly adventure to the wonder that is Antarctica, only this time in stunning 3D.

‘Arthur Christmas’ reveals the incredible, never-before seen answer to every child’s question: ’So how does Santa deliver all those presents in one night?’ The answer, Santa’s exhilarating, ultra-high-tech operation hidden beneath the North Pole. But at the heart of this film is a story with the ingredients of a Christmas classic, involving an unlikely hero, Arthur and an urgent mission.

‘New Year’s Eve’ is the creme de la creme of romantic come-dies, celebrating love, hope, trust, second chances and fresh starts. Set in New York on the most magical night of the year, with intertwining stories, all of which are heart-felt, you are sure to relate to this wonderful movie.

Twelve-year-old Hugo lives in the walls of a busy train station in Paris. Here, his survival depends on remaining anonymous. However, when his world is suddenly coincid-ed with an eccentric girl and the owner of an independent toyshop, Hugo’s undercover existence is subsequently put in peril.

Based on one of the most beloved characters from the Shrek film series, ‘Puss in Boots’ tells the hilarious tale of his life and courageous early adventures. Teaming up with his pals Humpty Dumpty and street savvy Kitty, Puss is on a mis-sion to steal the famed Goose that lays those all-important mythical Golden Eggs. Available in eye popping 3D at se-lected cinemas.

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Ingredients 50g caster sugar

100g butter150g plain flour

boiled sweets

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Baking Time: 10 minutes

Makes: 12

Method1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4.

2. Measure out 50g of caster sugar and 100g of Butter and beat together.

3. Add 150g of plain flour and rub together until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

4. Once ingredients have been evenly mixed, knead mixture into a dough. Add a small amount of water if the dough is dry and not sticking together.

5. Sprinkle extra flour over your clean surface so the dough does not stick to your surface.

6. Roll out your dough using a rolling pin to a thick-ness of 1cm. Adding flour to the rolling pin will also stop your dough sticking and tearing .

CHRISTMAS JEWEL

BISCUITS

7. Cut out 12 large christmas shapes using christmas cutters.

8. Using smaller shape cutters, make a hole in the middle of each biscuit.

9. Carefully transfer your biscuits onto a baking tray with greaseproof paper.

10. Place one boiled sweet into the hole of each bis-cuit.

11. Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes until golden brown and so that the sweets have melted.

12. Leave to cool for 15 minutes making sure the sweet in middle has hardened before removing from baking tray.

13. Biscuits are now ready to eat or decorate.

14. For decorating you could dust with icing sugar, or decorate with piped white icing.

These biscuits also make interesting christmas deco-rations. When baking add holes to the tops of the biscuits so that ribbons can be pushed through and then simply hang them onto your Christmas tree.

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Hand-making your own Christmas cards is a creative and enjoyable way to express yourself, get the whole family involved and make your friends and relatives smile. It’s not only fun and rewarding, but also more than often, crafting your own cards is con-siderably cheaper than just buying them off the shelf at retail stores. Many retail stores sell craft items so that you yourself can enjoy creating your own christmas cards. Hobby Craft is one of the best places for this.

Nearest HobbyCraft to Birmingham is:

HobbyCraft SolihullUnit D3

Solihull Retail ParkMarshall Lake Road

Shirley, SolihullWest Midlands

B90 4LD

Opening HoursMonday: 9am - 8pmTuesday: 9am - 8pm

Wednesday: 9am - 8pmThursday: 9am - 8pm

Friday: 9am - 8pmSaturday: 9am - 6pm

Sunday: 10.30am - 4.30pm

A popular method that is used to create handmade cards is cross stich. Cross stitch cards are timeless and illustrate perfectly how a little bit of time and effort can pro-duce beautiful and priceless gifts for loved ones.

There are many cross stitch sets avalible in a range of stores, so make sureyou source the best bargain!

Seasons Greetings andhave fun getting creative.

First of all, complete your cross stitch im-age as accurately as possible, making sure you follow the instructions very carefully.

Next, cut out a cir-cular hole in a piece of card and attach the design, securing it in place so your cross stitch is now

framed.

As a finishing touch to your cards, just add a festive greeting or even personalise with adding their name.

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Always recycle your wrap-ping papers, gift bags, tags, bows and ribbons as they can be used again to create new and beautiful presents.

If old paper/bags aren’t available to you, then why not create your own excit-ing designs at rock bottom prices? Making your own wrapping paper/gift bags will make presents seem more special to the per-son receiving them, will be more unique than using bought wrapping equip-ment, will be cheaper to make than buying your own and will be incredibly fun and enjoyable to make. Use anything and everything you have got.

D.I.Y

Spend Time & Effort

not Money

Gift Wrapping 3 for 2

PaperChase in Selfridges is an excellent place you can gather your Christmas wrapping paper at the mo-ment. With many different items and deals available.

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