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Soul of Sutton Exhibition: Celebrating local photography talent

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Pictured: From left – Cllr Nitish Raut, deputy mayor of Royal Sutton Coldfield, Dave Taylor, photographer of ‘Where’s Mine?’ and 2025 entrant, Emily Hannigan, matron at Good Hope Hospital and Simon Jarvis, hospital executive director at Good Hope Hospital

An award-winning photography exhibition designed to capture the “essence and soul” of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield has beenofficially hailed as a resounding success—bringing warmth, color, and comfort to patients and visitors at Good Hope Hospital.

What began as a community competition has evolved into a living art gallery within the hospital’s Treatment Centre. The ‘Soul of Sutton’ exhibition, spearheaded by the Town Council and Mayor Cllr Cindy Yip, now features 22 stunning photographic entries from local residents, with the dual purpose of showcasing local talent and improving the wellbeing of those receiving medical care.

From competition to community healing

The initiative launched in 2024 when photography enthusiasts were invited to submit images that best represented the spirit of Sutton Coldfield. After receiving a high volume of high-quality entries, the Town Council sought a way to share the work beyond a traditional gallery setting.

Simultaneously, Good Hope Hospital was actively looking to “brighten up the walls” of its Treatment Centre to bring comfort and joy to patients, visitors, and staff. A partnership was formed, and the corridor—one of the busiest thoroughfares in the hospital—was transformed into a public gallery.

Simon Jarvis, Hospital Executive Director at Good Hope Hospital, commented:
“The corridor between the Treatment Centre and the main hospital building is well-used by patients, staff and visitors. The stunning photography on display really brightens up this busy thoroughfare and further strengthens the strong ties between our hospital and the local community.”

New entries for 2025 expand the collection

Following the success of the initial 13 entries displayed in 2024, a further nine images from the 2025 competition have now been installed.

Featured residents and contributors include: Alison Matthews, Dave Taylor, Kathryn Sawbridge, Keith Wright, Harriet Birdsell, Neil Dance and Sutton Park Grange Care Home.

Tackling social isolation: The story behind ‘Where’s mine?’

One of the standout additions to the 2025 exhibition is Dave Taylor’s image, ‘Where’s mine?’. Taken at Coffee#1 in Sutton Coldfield, the photograph depicts Dave’s friend Colin enjoying a drink and a snack with his Australian Shepherd, Jake.

Dave’s motivation for entering the competition was deeply personal. Having visited the hospital previously, he and his family saw firsthand how the 2024 exhibition lifted spirits.

“We saw the images from the 2024 competition and thought they really brightened the treatment centre up and gave us something nice to focus on during our visits there,” Dave explained.

“I wanted to enter the 2025 competition in the hope that this new collection continues to bring enjoyment to other people attending Good Hope Hospital.”

His image intentionally highlights the importance of social spaces in Sutton Coldfield and their role in tackling social isolation—a theme that resonates strongly with the “Soul of Sutton” brief.

‘Seasons of Friendship’ brings care home residents into focus

Sutton Park Grange Care Home submitted ‘Seasons of Friendship at Sutton Park Grange Care Home’, a photograph that the team says “truly captures the spirit of our residents.”

“It’s a privilege to have our photograph included in this exhibition at Good Hope Hospital,” a spokesperson said.
“We hope it brightens someone’s day in the wider community of Sutton Coldfield.”

Alison Matthews: Finding beauty in Sutton Park

Amateur photographer Alison Matthews has two pieces featured in the exhibition: ‘Beautiful Blues’and ‘Proud Park Swan’. A regular walker in Sutton Park, Alison uses photography as a tool for both mental and physical health.

“I get real pleasure in sharing my photography and I am thrilled to be part of this exhibition at Good Hope Hospital,” said Alison.

“I am just a happy amateur who loves finding beauty in and around Sutton Coldfield, particularly in Sutton Park. Regular walks with my camera are what keeps me healthy, in mind as well as body! This is a great opportunity to share a little of that with patients and staff.”

Personal achievement and community pride

Keith Wright, creator of ‘Maypole Installation, Holly Knoll, Sutton Park, May 2025’, spoke about what it means to be selected for a public exhibition.

“Participating in an exhibition, after being selected in a competition, confirms a personal achievement and instils a sense of pride. Producing photographic images to a set task or theme is an enjoyable challenge for any photographer.

“Many of us, friends or family (or someone who knows us), will pass through the hospital. The printed photograph gives us time to look, experience, enjoy and discuss.”

A unique story to yell

Cllr Cindy Yip, Mayor of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, served as judge for the 2025 competition and praised the depth of talent on display.

“It was a privilege to view the entries and select winners for the 2025 Soul of Sutton competition, each one with a unique story to tell about our Royal Town.

“This is a great space to showcase the talent of local residents. Congratulations again to all the featured artists.”

Why this matters: The power of art in healthcare

The ‘Soul of Sutton’ exhibition is a prime example of the therapeutic power of visual art in healthcare environments. By replacing blank clinical walls with scenes of local nature, community life, and cherished pets, Good Hope Hospital has created a “positive distraction” for those undergoing treatment.

Residents have reported that the images provide comfort and a sense of familiarity during what can be a stressful hospital visit.

About the ‘Soul of Sutton’ Initiative
The ‘Soul of Sutton’ competition is an annual event run by Sutton Coldfield Town Council. It invites residents to submit photographic works that celebrate the people, places, and spirit of the Royal Town. Winning entries are displayed publicly to foster community pride and cultural engagement.

Visiting the Exhibition
The exhibition is located in the corridor between the Treatment Centre and the main hospital building at Good Hope Hospital. It is freely accessible to patients, visitors, and staff during hospital opening hours.

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Hunt for e-bike gang after Sutton Coldfield shooting

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Police have appealed for more information after man in his 20s was left fighting for his life after a shooting in Sutton Coldfield. A woman was also injured in the attack on January 31.

Detectives are now urgently searching for a group of men seen on electric bikes (e-bikes) believed to be involved.

Detective Inspector Francis Nock stated: “A man has been very seriously injured and we’re determined to find out who was responsible. We’re working round the clock and know there will be people who can help us. Any footage, imagery or information could prove vital.”
Police say this appears to be an isolated incident targeted at a specific address, but additional officers remain in the area for public reassurance.

Key details of the Sutton Coldfield shooting

  • Date & Time: Around 11:30 PM on Saturday, 31 January
  • Location: Mount View or Reddicap Hill area, Sutton Coldfield
  • Crime Reference: 20/132275/26
  • Current Status: Major investigation with increased police presence

Appeal for information

West Midlands Police are urging anyone with information to come forward, particularly those who:

  • Saw a group of men on electric bikes in the area
  • Witnessed the incident or people fleeing the scene
  • Heard gunshots or significant disturbances
  • Have dashcam, doorbell, or CCTV footage from around 11:30 PM on January 31

How to help the investigation

If you have any information, no matter how small:

  • Call: 101, quoting reference 20/132275/26
  • Online: Visit the West Midlands Police website

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Sutton Coldfield police report 46 per cut in serious crime

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SUTTON COLDFIELD – A major police initiative in Sutton Coldfield has slashed rates of serious crime by nearly half in its first fortnight, West Midlands Police have reported.

Operation Skybridge, a specialised deployment targeting serious and acquisitive crime (SAC), was launched in the area over two weeks ago. New data reveals a dramatic 46% reduction in overall SAC offences, including robbery, burglary, and vehicle crime, since the operation began.

Key Crime Reduction Statistics in Sutton Coldfield:

  • Burglary: Down 33%
  • Robbery: Down 42%
  • Theft from motor vehicle: Down 46%
  • Theft of motor vehicle: Down 60%

The operation’s impact follows multiple arrests for serious offences, including robbery, burglary, and drug supply. Police activity has been high, with officers conducting numerous stop-and-searches, proactive traffic stops, and generating dozens of intelligence reports to target offenders.

“While this is a promising start, we understand that behind every offence, there are victims,” stated the Operation Skybridge team. “We will continue to work alongside your local neighbourhood team to seek out those causing harm to the Sutton Coldfield community.”

Winter Security Warning for Birmingham Residents

With a week of sub-zero temperatures forecast, police issued urgent crime prevention advice to deter opportunistic thieves:

  • Never leave your vehicle running unattended while defrosting. Thieves target these moments and can steal a car in seconds.
  • Remove all valuables from your vehicle.
  • Ensure all windows and doors to your home are securely locked.
  • Consider upgrading to anti-snap locks on exterior doors to prevent a common method of forced entry.

How to Report Crime in the West Midlands

Anyone with information about robbery, burglary, vehicle crime, or drug crime in Sutton Coldfield or Birmingham is urged to contact:

  • Crimestoppers anonymously.
  • West Midlands Police via their official website webchat function.
  • Email the Operation Skybridge team directly at Opskybridge@westmidlands.police.uk (Note: This email is for intelligence and correspondence, not for reporting live crimes).

In an emergency, always call 999.

Operation Skybridge continues its deployment in support of local policing teams across the West Midlands.

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Lights switch-on sparks festive cheer in Sutton Coldfield

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The festive season is officially aglow in Royal Sutton Coldfield. This year’s display features 230 energy-efficient LED lights across the town, providing brighter illumination while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to traditional bulbs. You can see the sparkling Christmas lights in the following locations:

  • Sutton Coldfield Town Centre
  • Boldmere High Street
  • Mere Green
  • Walmley
  • Wylde Green
  • Falcon Lodge
  • Minworth
  • Whitehouse Common
  • Chester Road, Kingsbury Road, Walsall Road
  • Beeches Walk, Church Hill Parade, Clarence Road, Dugdale Crescent, Hollyfield Road, Little Boldmere
  • King Edward Square

Festive Christmas Trees, funded by the Town Council, are also located at: Dugdale Crescent, Falcon Lodge, Harvest Fields, Mere Green, Minworth, Walmley, and Wylde Green.

🅿️ Free festive parking and travel scheme until Jan 4, 2026

To complement the lights and boost the local economy, the Town Council is running a free holiday parking and travel initiative.

Parking details:

Days & Times: Thursdays from 4pm, Fridays from 4pm, and all day on Saturdays and Sundays.

Participating Car Parks

  • Station Street
  • Upper & Lower Reddicroft
  • Mill Street
  • Anchorage Road
  • South Parade
  • Duke Street

The scheme also includes free bus travel and cycle hire within the area, making it seamless to visit Royal Sutton Coldfield’s town centre and local shopping parades this Christmas.

🗣️ Supporting the town centre

Cllr Simon Ward, leader of Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, said:

“I’m pleased to see the Town Council continuing to support our town centre through initiatives like the Festive Lights and Festive Travel Scheme. This outlines our commitment to local businesses and helps attract more visitors, making travel easier for shoppers during the busiest time of year.”

Plan Your Visit: Experience the festive magic, enjoy free parking on weekends and evenings, and support Royal Sutton Coldfield’s brilliant local businesses this holiday season.

Christmas Trees are also funded by the Town Council at Dugdale Crescent, Falcon Lodge, Harvest Fields, Mere Green, Minworth, Walmley and Wylde Green.

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A centurion’s celebration aat Sutton Coldfield care home

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A Sutton Coldfield care home resident has celebrated her remarkable 102nd birthday by sharing her timeless advice for a long and happy life.

Joyce McCliskie, affectionately known as Joy, marked the milestone at Care UK’s Mercia Grangeon Lichfield Road, surrounded by her loving family and the care home team.

To honour the special occasion, the team decorated the home with banners and balloons, and the head chef prepared a bespoke birthday cake.

Joy’s secrets to a long and happy life

When asked for her advice for younger generations, Joy’s simple yet powerful secret was: “Stay active, busy and connected with other people.”

Born in Oldbury on 5th November 1923, Joy dedicated eight years of her career to nursing at Birmingham’s Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. Her passions for sewing, knitting, and cooking were always shared generously with her family.

Joy met her husband Douglas in their twenties. Together, they built a beautiful family, which now includes two children, four grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

An integral member of the community

Since moving to Mercia Grange in 2022, Joy has become a cornerstone of the community. Her fellow residents nominated her to serve as a Resident Ambassador last year, a role in which she excels.

Michael McNelis, Home Manager at Mercia Grange, said: “Joy is a much-loved resident, and her calm, cheerful attitude is an inspiration. Celebrating her 102nd birthday was a joy for everyone. Her philosophy reminds us that the key to a fulfilling life is living in the moment and finding joy in the simple things.”

Inspired by Joy’s story? Mercia Grange is welcoming new residents. If you or a loved one is seeking exceptional full-time care or respite care in the Sutton Coldfield area, we invite you to learn more.

Mercia Grange is a state-of-the-art care home offering premium residential, nursing, and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Facilities include a luxury cinema, hair and beauty salon, and a traditional pub, all supporting a vibrant community life.

For information:

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Art and opera unite at Sutton Coldfield care home

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Audrey Smithem, Alan Blakeley, and Jean Greaves with artist Peter Forbes

From brushstrokes to baritones home hosts artful evening

Care UK’s Mercia Grange care home recently hosted its first-ever art exhibition, creating an unforgettable evening that blended visual art with live opera music for residents, their families, and the local community.

The event at the Lichfield Road, Four Oaks venue, showcased the remarkable artwork of Peter Forbes, a talented local artist who also serves as a valued member of the home’s maintenance team. Guests enjoyed an inspiring display of his work, featuring striking landscapes and expressive portraits, and had the opportunity to speak with Peter about his creative process.

The artistic display was complemented by a live performance from Mezzo-Soprano singer Samantha Oxborough, who captivated the audience with a selection of classic opera songs. The home’s Head Chef prepared a range of canapés and refreshments for all to enjoy.

The event was attended by Councillor Nitish Raut, Deputy Mayor of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, highlighting the home’s role within the wider community.

Resident Terry Fletcher and her son, Greg Fletcher

A Celebration of Community and Talent

Peter Forbes, the featured artist, commented: “It was a lovely evening connecting with residents and the community over art and music. It was a real privilege to share another passion of mine with everyone. A big thank you to the team and to all those who joined us.”

Michael McNelis, Home Manager at Mercia Grange, added: “We’ve loved hosting our first art exhibition and opera evening. It is important for us to connect with the community, and art is an excellent way to craft conversations and build meaningful relationships. Peter does so much for the home, so we were overjoyed to give something back and display his masterpieces.”

About Mercia Grange Care Home

Mercia Grangeprovides full-time residential, nursing, and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care and features 67 en-suite bedrooms, a cinema, a hair and beauty salon, and a pub.

For more information contact:

Rachel Mackay, Customer Relations Manager
Phone: 0121 314 7849
Email: rachel.mackay@careuk.com
Website: www.careuk.com/mercia-grange

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Community Concerns? Meet your Sutton Coldfield PCSO

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Join Sutton Coldfield PCSO Gill Whittingham for a friendly, informal chat about local matters in the Four Oaks area.

Residents are invited to an upcoming Police Community Surgery. This is your chance to speak one-to-one, about any concerns or issues you may have in your neighbourhood.

When: Thursday, 27th November 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Where: The Cosy Coffee Shop, Clarence Road

No appointment is necessary—just drop in. I am here to listen and to help.

We can discuss:

  • Community Concerns: Your observations about anti-social behaviour, speeding, or other local issues.
  • Personalised Crime Prevention Advice: Get tailored tips on how to better secure your home, vehicle, or personal property.
  • Local Updates: Hear about what we’re doing in your area and how we can work together.

This is an informal and confidential opportunity for you to help shape the policing priorities in our community. Your input is invaluable.

Four Oaks PCSO Gill Whittingham

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Sutton BMet students celebrate at graduation ceremony

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BMet (Birmingham Metropolitan College) which includes Sutton Coldfield College, James Watt College and Matthew Boulton College, honoured the outstanding achievements of its graduates, students, and staff at its annual graduation ceremony, held at the iconic Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

The celebratory event was attended by graduates, their families and friends, and BMet staff. It featured special guest appearances from the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal, MBE, JP, and award-winning athlete Jamie McAnsh, who delivered an inspiring keynote speech to motivate the new graduates.

Recognising Excellence: A Night of Awards

Alongside the formal graduation proceedings for Higher Education (HE) students, the ceremony saw 48 awards presented to deserving students, staff, and employer partners. These accolades celebrated a wide range of accomplishments.

Key awards presented included:

  • Academic Excellence Award
  • Inspirational Student Award
  • Outstanding Engagement Award
  • Innovation in Curriculum Award
  • Student Support Champion Award

The Resilience and Determination Award was proudly sponsored by the Morgan Hunt Recruitment Agency. In addition, Fellowship Awards were given to employers Roxanne Blackwood from fashion brand Kimmiu, and Louise Pinnington and Karen O’Donovan from Edge Creative, in recognition of their invaluable support in helping BMet students progress in their careers.

The event was further brought to life by two captivating performances from Performing Arts students from BMet’s Sutton Coldfield College.

Award Winner Spotlights

Karen Hemmings, Department Manager for Early Years at BMet, graduated with a Leadership Certificate in Post Compulsory Education (Cert Ed) and also received the Resilience and Determination Award.

“I’m very excited about being at this awards ceremony,” Karen said. “It means a lot to me to have achieved what I have at this later stage of my life. The support I have received whilst studying has been invaluable from teachers, as well as family – some of which are here with me today! I’m so thankful to everyone who has helped me along the way.”

Elijah Lewis graduated from his HND Cloud Networking Course and achieved an Inspirational Student Award.

“I’m so very happy to be recognised for my hard work and it has been a long time coming!” Elijah commented. “It feels like a testament to all my efforts. My action plan of studying computing at BCU is now one step closer and I feel I am on the path to securing a career in Cyber Security.”

Roxanne Blackwood, Founder and Creative Director of Kimmiu, received a Fellowship Award for her work in championing BMet and developing employability skills for students.

“Winning the award today is a huge honour in what has been a mutually beneficial journey,”Roxanne stated. “As well as helping learners on their career paths, I have learnt how to tailor my work in ways that can be meaningful and motivating to a target group of people. I have personally grown a lot and developed during my time working with BMet.”

Explore Higher Education at BMet

Their HE provision includes:

  • Foundation Degrees
  • Higher Level Apprenticeships
  • Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)
  • Higher National Certificates (HNCs)
  • Higher National Diplomas (HNDs)

To find out more about the range of higher education courses at BMet, visit the official BMet website.

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Join the festivities at Sutton Coldfield’s second Christmas Market

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Sutton Coldfield visitors afre in for a magical Victorian-themed Christmas Market on The Parade in Sutton Coldfield, when it returns for its second year across two festive weekends in December.

After listening to visitor feedback, this year’s market has been condensed into two vibrant, four-day weekends to ensure a fantastic atmosphere and a bustling, fully occupied artisan marketplace.

Market dates and opening times

The Sutton Coldfield Christmas Market will take place across two weekends and will be  officially opened by MP Sir Andrew Mitchell on December 11th at 4pm.

  • Weekend 1: Thursday 11th – Sunday 14th December
  • Weekend 2: Thursday 18th – Sunday 21st December

Opening Hours:

  • Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
  • Sundays: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

What to expect

Located on The Parade, the market will feature:

  • Over 60 Unique Stalls: Browse a wide selection of artisan gifts, handmade crafts, seasonal food, and festive treats from local traders.
  • Festive Victorian Theme: Stallholders will be dressed in period costume, creating a charming and immersive experience.
  • Brightly Lit Gazebos: The market will be beautifully illuminated, providing a warm and vibrant atmosphere after dark.
  • Live Family Entertainment: Enjoy stilt walkers, a walk-in snow globe, and visits from Father Christmas and his elves.
  • A Less Crowded Alternative: Discover a unique and more relaxed shopping experience compared to the larger Birmingham Christmas Market.

Free parking available

Enjoy Free Festive Parking!
To make your visit easier, Sutton Coldfield Town Council is funding free parking in all Birmingham City Council-owned car parks in the town centre:

  • After 4pm on Thursdays and Fridays
  • All day on Saturdays and Sundays

Address: The Christmas Market is located on The Parade, Sutton Coldfield, B72 1PH.

Support local this Christmas

The Sutton Coldfield Christmas Market is a partnership between Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BIDand LSD Promotions (organisers of the Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Market). The goal is to boost footfall and support the local economy.

“While you’re here, please support our local businesses in Sutton Coldfield town centre.” – Michelle Baker, BID Manager.

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Golden Grooves revives 60s and 70s classics

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Music and community spirit at Sutton Coldfield retirement community

The unforgettable sounds of the 1960s and 70s filled a retirement community in Wylde Green, as residents enjoyed a special performance from singer Jane Francis and her ‘Golden Grooves’ show.

The event perfectly captured the vibrant, community-focused lifestyle enjoyed by homeowners at Broadleaf House Retirement Community.

A nostalgic and upbeat afternoon

The afternoon was a celebration of timeless favourites, with Jane Francis effortlessly switching between the iconic hits of the two decades.

The performance was a delightful blend of music, memories, and conversation, with familiar tunes sparking stories and happy recollections among the guests. The energy was so infectious that several homeowners couldn’t resist taking to the dance floor.

An interval for afternoon tea, freshly prepared by the on-site chef, added to the warm, sociable atmosphere.

Music: The heartbeat of community

Jane shared her joy in performing for the community, stating, “I love seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter when people recognise a song that takes them straight back to a happy memory. Every audience has its own personality, and that makes each event so special.”

She later added how lovely it was to visit such a friendly, welcoming community at Broadleaf House.

Alexandra Johnson, Sales and Marketing Director for Adlington Retirement Living, said: Events like this capture the community spirit that’s at the heart of Broadleaf House, where homeowners and visitors can share great company, conversation and entertainment.”

Community in later life

The sense of community was echoed by homeowner Rob, who moved to Broadleaf House recently. “Moving here was one of the best decisions I have made in later life. It has both physically and mentally improved my life in many ways,” he said.

“I have made many new friends and am socially engaging with people on a daily basis. There is always something going on—from movie nights in the restaurant and weekly cinema visits to coffee mornings and organised days out. Life here can be as full or as relaxing as you choose.”

Retirement Living

Broadleaf House offers a perfect blend of independence and security for those aged 60 and over. The community features:

  • 57 age-exclusive apartments: A range of one, two, and three-bedroom designs.
  • Vibrant communal spaces: Including a homeowners’ lounge, coffee lounge, on-site restaurant, hair salon, therapy room, and activities studio.
  • Beautifully maintained private gardens: Providing a tranquil setting for relaxation.
  • Friendly 24-hour on-site team: Offering peace of mind and support.
  • Optional care packages: Tailored personal care for added independence.
  • Advanced home features: A sophisticated emergency call system and secure video entry.

If you or a loved one are considering retirement living in Sutton Coldfield, a range of beautifully furnished show apartments are open to view daily at Broadleaf House on Birmingham Road from 10am to 5pm.

For more information or to book an appointment, call 0121 817 8680 or visit the website at adlington.co.uk.