New team, from left, head of the Royal Sutton Chamber Chris Brewerton, Kate Curry, Naeem Arif, Gary Phelps and Phil Arkinstall
Chamber elects new president
A new president has taken over over at Sutton Coldfield leading business organisation. Naeem Arif has been electednew president of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce.
Mr Arif, a director at United Carpets, was confirmed as successor to Ark Media chief executive Phil Arkinstall at the Chamber’s annual general meeting at The Townhouse.
Having grown up in Sutton Coldfield, Mr Arif attended Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School and also represented the Royal Town’s hockey and cricket clubs – becoming chairman of the latter in 2008.
The father-of-four has also written a series of books examining how businesses convert and retain customers through good customer service.
Mr Arif vowed to use his two-year term as president to encourage collaboration and drive more trade within the town, under the name of ‘Team Sutton’.
He said: “We are a thriving and dynamic region which is much more than just the town centre.
“We have Boldmere, Mere Green, Peddimore, Walmley, Four Oaks, Wylde Green, Reddicap, Roughley, Trinity, Vesey, Minworth – each contributing to our local economy and the attractiveness of people wanting to live here and do business with us.
“We will always promote all the local businesses in our region, giving them support wherever we can, and we will push this narrative as much as possible.
“When we buy local, we aren’t just investing in products and services; we are investing in our neighbours, friends, and families. We are investing in the future of everyone in Sutton Coldfield.”
Kate Curry, owner and director of Mere Green-based creative design agency The Curry Design Studio, has been confirmed as a vice-president of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber. She joins existing vice-president, communications expert and former newspaper editor Gary Phelps.
The Chamber also welcomed Sean Cremins of Insight6 to the committee.
Burley Browne’s Steve Hannaford and Joanna Drinkwater of GMK House have stepped down having completed their terms.
Outgoing president Phil Arkinstall, who steps into the position of honorary chair, said: “Over the past three years, it has been an absolute privilege to carry out this role as president and I am incredibly proud of the progress we have made as a Chamber.
“I am excited to take on the position of honorary chair for the next 12 months. I am keen to support the new executive committee and our new president. May the Chamber continue to thrive and prosper.”
Upmarket retirement complex revealed in Sutton Coldfield
Details of a luxurious new retirement complex in Sutton Coldfield have been released by developers. Broadleaf House, developed by Adlington Retirement Living in Wylde Green, Sutton Coldfield offers luxurious amenities and living spaces for individuals aged 55 and over.
It is the 18th community developed and operated by Adlington Retirement Living, which was recognised as Seniors Housing Developer of the Year in 2022. Broadleaf House says it provides a comprehensive and appealing living environment for seniors, focusing on both the physical amenities and the sense of community and connection among its residents.
Facilities and Amenities:
Luxurious facilities include a homeowners’ lounge, restaurant, hair salon, activities room, and therapy suite.
There’s also a coffee lounge, where residents can socialize and relax.
Communal spaces aim to foster a sense of community and connection among residents.
Living Spaces:
It features a range of stylish one, two, and three-bedroom apartments.
All apartments are designed with the over 55s in mind and offer privacy, security, and comfort.
Apartments come with patios or walk-out balconies to provide outdoor spaces for residents.
Interior Design and Individuality:
Each Adlington Retirement Living community has a unique interior design scheme.
The goal is to ensure individuality and a fresh look for each launch.
Personal Care and Support:
The community offers a 24-hour on-site support team for added peace of mind.
Optional personal care packages can be tailored to individual needs.
Emergency call systems and security video entry systems are in place.
Recognition and Awards:
Other Adlington Retirement Living communities have won awards for their quality and approach to independent living.
These communities emphasize maintaining a resident’s lifestyle, social life, and independence while fostering a sense of community.
For more information, individuals can contact the sales team at Broadleaf House or visit the Adlington Retirement Living website.
VIP guest as preparations begin at Sutton Coldfield Town Hall
The cast of Jack and the Beanstalk were joined by mayor of Sutton Coldfield Cllr Tony Briggs as they prepared for this year’ pantomime at the Town Hall.
Sutton Coldfield Town Hall will be hosting the production this Christmas, in partnership with TaleGate Theatre Productions.
And the mayor was on hand for the cast’s photshoot day.
Cllr Briggs said: “It was wonderful to spend time with the cast and crew who are working really hard to put on a fabulous show in December.
When does it begin?
“Everyone was really enthusiastic, and I look forward to seeing the final production in a few months’ time.”
The Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime runs from 9 to 31 December.
Auditions for the Youth Ensemble are taking place at the Town Hall on 26 August.
James Worthington, TaleGate Theatre Productions artistic director, said: This Christmas, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall will be transformed into the Royal Town of Suttonia. Oh yes it will!
What is the story?
“A bustling market town with a GIANT problem. ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ was first presented at London’s Drury Lane in 1819 and has continued to be one of the most popular pantomimes presented.
“With magic, adventure, thrills and spills – what is not to love about this wonderful tale.
“Together we will bring this story right up to date with pop songs for all ages, dazzling special effects and more glitter than milk in the diary. With Sutton Coldfield Town Hall’s beautiful venue and TaleGate’s pantomime know-how, the future is sparkling for panto in Sutton.”
Residents in Sutton Coldfield have new options to support their iconic town hall on Heritage Day.
The event on September 9 is part of National Heritage Week.
In response to your feedback, Royal Sutton Coldfield Community Town Hall Trust (RSCCTHT) have made some improvements to our donations system to make it an easier and smoother process to support the Town Hall.
So what’s happening?
The trust is appealing for donations, but also offering a special Heritage Tour to unveil parts of the venue you might not know about and stop off for afternoon tea in the beautiful Crush Hall while you are at it.
The expected tour length is 25-30 minutes on foot.
The tours are free, but a £3 suggested donation per person would be appreciated. (Unfortunately due to the listed nature of the building, these tours are not suitable for those in wheelchairs, prams or with severe mobility issues. If you have mobility issues and you would like a tour of the building, we would be happy to make alternative arrangements with you).
9am (up to 12 people) 10am (up to 12 people) 11am (up to 12 people)
AFTERNOON TEA
Book your Afternoon Tea Picnic box in our beautiful Crush Hall.
Take in the atmosphere of possibly our most beautiful heritage room, home to weddings and special occasions, enjoy sandwiches, scones and cakes with the ornate decor set to a special soundtrack of acoustic live music whilst helping to fundraise for the longevity of our beautiful building.
Served with hot drinks, or Prosecco.
What’s included in your afternoon tea picnic box:
Four tea sandwiches including :
Smoked salmon;
Cream cheese and cucumber;
Beef and horseradish ;
Kettle ham and tomato;
Cheese and caramelised onion chutney;
Homemade caramelised onion sausage roll
Fruit scone with butter, berry jam and clotted cream
Working in collaboration with Birmingham Heritage Week #BHERITAGEWEEK
Did you know that we are a charity ?
The trust rust has managed the Town Hall since October 2016. Previously owned and managed by Birmingham City Council, several problems had affected the long-term viability of the Town Hall.
The Trust identified strategies and solutions for success, and since the takeover the priority has been to stabilise the Town Hall financially and form a solid foundation from which the trust is now able to build.
Where are we now?
After stabilising financially and diversifying the bookings, RSCCTHT has focussed on building greater diversity and higher utilisation of the Town Hall. Plans are now underway to transform some aspects of the building ready for the next century, whilst sympathetically restoring our heritage features.
There is still much work to be done to secure the venue, but with passionate support from locals, sponsors, town councillors and user groups, there is real faith in the success of RSCCTHT’s mission and a sense of an exciting future.
How can I help?
Royal Sutton Coldfield Community Town Hall Trust is seeking volunteers and sponsors to get involved with all aspects of the Town Hall operations, if you are interested in becoming a Friend of the Town Hall please contact Creative & Business Development Manager, Vicci Hogan on vicci.hogan@suttoncoldfieldtownhall.com
Fancy a late summer/early autumn cruise to the land of the Pharaohs, spectacular pyramids and the enigmatic sphinx?
A Nile cruise to explore ancient temples, historical sites and the scenic beauty along the way is made even better when it’s on board a smaller, more intimate boat.
Discover Egypt is thrilled to once again offer cruises on board the five-star Alexander the Great following a recent refurbishment.
The sleek Alexander the Great has been upgraded to an exceptional standard with an intimate atmosphere, tasteful décor, and stylish furnishings giving holidaymakers the perfect way to cruise the Nile. With just 30 cabins and table service at dinner it’s the ultimate experience for those wanting to visit Egypt’s ancient sites in style.
The first sailing is on 1st September 2023 with a classic 10-night holiday that includes the seven-night Nile cruise and three-nights in Cairo with prices from £1,999 per person, based on two sharing a cabin. Bookings are now being taken through until May 2025 ideal for those that want to plan ahead for a special occasion holiday.
The price includes return flights from Heathrow, transfers in resort, 10 guided excursions with a qualified Egyptologist and full board luxury cruise. The ships facilities include a pool with Jacuzzi and a large crescent shaped bar to enjoy a drink in the sunshine or under the stars; a spa that offers massage treatments and a Turkish bath, an Internet room; fitness facilities and a gift shop.
The cruise takes travellers on a captivating route from Luxor to Aswan, offering an unforgettable exploration of ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes. Discover the legendary Valley of the Kings, where the Pharaohs including the boy king Tutankhamen found their external resting place, and the impressive Temple of Hatshepsut in the Valley of the Queens, as well as the awe-inspiring temples of Karnak and Luxor.
The cruise also visits the hidden gems of Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan, plus there is the opportunity for an optional excursion to Abu Simbel to see the four colossal statues of Ramses II – which for many will be the highlight of the cruise. This is an unbeatable cruise that will leave travellers with memories to last a lifetime.
For more information and to book contact Discover Egypt on 020 7407 2111 or www.discoveregypt.co.uk
Bistrot Pierre in Mere Green, Sutton Coldfield is under new management
Under new management, Bistrot Pierre in Sutton Coldfield hits the spot
By Bill McCarthy
Poulet roti, as we all probably know, is a posh French name for chicken and chips. That’s not to say there’s anything wrong with chicken and chips, particularly when special attention has been paid to the dish for Bastille Day celebrations.
Bastille Day commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789 that marked the start of the French Revolution. The French connection with Bistrot Pierre was timely for our visit on Bastille Day with the restaurant putting on a special four-course menu at a highly-attractive price.
Despite being part of a chain and sharing menus and decor themes, each Bistrot Pierre offers its own unique style and the restaurant we visited in Sutton Coldfield was no different. Under new management and with a new chef, the venue has a quaint Gallic ambience, a kind of chic cafe restaurant charm, comfortable but not decadent.
It prides itself on its freshly cooked food, although some items like the French fries were frozen. On this occasion, the Mere Green venue was kitted out in quaint, or naff, style, depending on your point of view, including staff wearing Breton sailor shirts and berets. Many customers joined in the fun, some adding the obligatory string of onions around the neck.
“Would the poached egg pass the runny yolk test?”
The four-course menu offered a selection of around half a dozen starters and mains, a cheese selection and a selection of puddings for £32.95 per person. A decent choice for a kind of set menu and to start off, both of us resisted the French onion soup and I chose the interesting-looking Lyonnaise salad, while my partner plumped for the more familiar calamari. We had quite a wait for the first course to arrive, but it proved worth it.
Let’s be clear, it may be French themed, but there was absolutely no sign of Nouvelle Cuisine-sized portions here, both dishes making us wonder whether four courses were achievable. My warm included a poached egg, coated in a crispy panko, or breadcrumb crust, Morteau sausage, dressed leaves, baby potatoes and croutons.
The salad mixture was crunchy and tasty, but did the poached egg stand up to scrutiny and have a runny yolk? Cutting into the crust revealed a perfectly cooked egg. A great start for me while the calamari, again, was a substantial offering. Would it be rubbery and overcooked?
Well no, cooked pretty much to perfection while the lightly spiced garlic oil offered a welcome kick. To continue the French theme, the mains proved deja vu in terms of quantity, with my partner’s half roasted chicken and a tub of chips supplemented by garlic and parsley butter, and an optional chestnut mushroom sauce.
Eating out for me is about the challenge of trying something a little different. I have always been ambivalent about risotto, a challenge for any cook or chef and wrongly cooked can be a soggy mess. My wife set about the half chicken and given she is a bit odd and prefers the dark meat of a chicken rather than the breast, surprised me having a go at both.
The chicken proved to be moist and well cooked, with the butter and sauce meaning the dish was not too dry. So how about the risotto? Any fears of a savoury rice pudding were quickly dispelled with a plate of well cooked rice, with a clever combination of spinach, peas, Saint Mont cheese and tarragon, which to use an old cliche, really did tantalise the taste buds.
A huge dish and very filling. Both dishes were left with food on the plate while we contemplated the task, or risk, of another two courses. A brief consultation meant the cheeseboard would be abandoned and one sweet would be shared.
We chose the Paris-Brest, which comprised a French choux pastry with hazelnut praline cream, hazelnuts, pink peppercorn strawberries. It has the appearance of art on a plate which might have prompted the great Claude Monet to paint it and the fact that is was a sharer was a wise choice. Supplemented with warm chocolate sauce but not sickly sweet, it is a great alternative with the slightly sweet praline cream complemented by the dark, slightly bitter chocolate.
Verdict? C’etait bon. Without doubt, great value for a shade under £33 each and the beauty of it was there were substantial savings on ordering the same items separately from the main menu. Service was efficient and the staff were attentive and polite, offering a pleasant dining experience.
The restaurant is open seven days a week and has an outdoor terrace. Menus and cover most options including gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian. New general manager Sadikur Chowdhury is beginning to make his mark with his new kitchen team.
Like many in hospitality they have suffered the double whammy of the Covid 19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis, but the new boss says he is determined to grow the business. Like all of those in the hospitality business, we should wish them bon chance!
Sample menu
Starters Fricassée de Champignons, £6.95 Chicken Liver Parfait, £7.75 Lyonnaise Salad, £7.95 Mains Goats cheese and Beetroot Tarte £13.25 Boeuf Bourguignon, £17.25 Smoked Haddock, £14.95 Poulet Rôti, £17.25 Sides Dauphinoise Potatoes, £4.50 Roast Garlic Mushrooms, £3.95 Pommes Frites, £3.95 Desserts Paris-Brest, £8.25 Crème Brûlée, £6.95 Tarte au Citron, £7.50
Gracechurch sale could be a catalyst for regeneration says Chamber
Business leaders in Sutton Coldfield hope the sale of the Gracechurch shopping centre will be a catalyst for the town centre’s much-anticipated regeneration.
Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce has been part of a Town Centre Regeneration Partnership which was formed in 2018 to bring together key stakeholders to shape a future vision for Sutton Coldfield town centre.
This includes delivery of a masterplan featuring a number of ‘big moves’ to reshape the town centre.
The centre’s takeover by BGP and SAV Group was announced last week, with the new owners hailing the site’s “immense potential” and vowing to create a “modern living, working and leisure space”.
A company spokesperson said: “We’re committed to closely collaborating with local authorities and eagerly anticipate sharing our forthcoming plans.”
Phil Arkinstall (pictured), president of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber, hopes the sale of the Gracechurch proves to be an important step in attracting investment.
He said: “We as a Chamber hope that the sale of the Gracechurch Centre will be a positive move for the Royal Town.
“Our town centre needs investment and bringing into the 21st century. We hope this acquisition will be a catalyst for progress and getting spades in the ground before too long.”
Meanwhile, the town’s MP Andrew Mitchell described the deal as a “key moment.”
He said: “I believe this is a key moment – Sutton Coldfield residents care a great deal about their town centre.
“They will be hoping that BGP and SAV Group will bring new investment and a clear strategy that will revitalise Gracechurch.
“We have massive investment confirmed which will create a new transport gateway to welcome visitors to the town centre, an excellent masterplan that sets out a clear vision going forward, and residents, businesses and retailers who are determined to see the town flourish.
“In many ways, the sale of Gracechurch could be seen as the final piece in the jigsaw that will create the momentum needed to make real progress.”
Motorists in the Four Oaks area have been warned to be vigilant after police received five reports in the last seven days of vehicles being stolen in the area.
Vehicle theft in the area has been a constant problem recently and now West Midlands Police has offered the following advice to keep vehicles safe
Cars & Vans
Leaving items on show is an invitation – power leads, SatNavs and mounts, stereo front panels, coins, sunglasses, tools, clothing and bags should be removed from the vehicle or places out of sight.
Keys and ignition fobs should be kept safe and out of sight and reach – a common way to steal a car or a van is to take the keys from the ignition fob, either when left in the vehicle or from your home through burglary.
Always lock and close the windows of your vehicle when unattended – on the drive, the petrol station forecourt or when parking. An unlocked vehicle is the easiest way to steal or steal from. When away from home, consider using a Park Mark approved car park.
Fit theft resistant number plate fittings – stolen number plates are commonly used to hide the identity of stolen vehicles. Use one-way clutch head screws to secure plates.
Consider using a steering wheel lock – or a lock that fits over the gear lever. Alternatively a security box can be fitted over the pedals to prevent thefts when the vehicle is parked up.
Relay Theft
Vehicles fitted with a smart or passive key are susceptible to relay theft. The key system allows you to gain entry and start your vehicle without the need to interact with your vehicle’s key.
Criminals use specialist equipment that has the ability to grab the signal from the car to the smart key so that it appears to the car that the key is present. Your vehicle is most vulnerable overnight, particularly if parked on your driveway or directly outside your home.
How to prevent this:
· When not in use – either at home or when out and about – store your key in a security pouch. Security pouches are sometimes termed Faraday bags or signal blockers/shields and there are many security rated versions on the market. These pouches will prevent the signal from your vehicle being captured using electronic devices.
· Remember to secure both keys in a security pouch.
Vehicle Tracking
Some vehicles have tracking standards, but you can install an approved aftermarket vehicle tracker, search Thatcam website foe independently tested products.
Manufacturers Advice
Check with your main dealer that – regardless of the age of the vehicle – it has had all its recalls completed and software and firmware updated. Also ask your main dealer what latest security measures can be retrofitted to older vehicles.
Left, David Underwood, retail development manager at St Giles, with David Hemming, joint managing director at Burley Browne
St Giles Hospice is embarking on a major expansion of its network of charity shops across the West Midlands in line with the launch of its new 2023-2026 strategy, with Sutton Coldfield a target area.
Commercial property consultancy Burley Browne has been instructed to support the Whittington-based charity, which has a centre in Lindridge Road, Sutton, in identifying suitable retail units at high street, retail park and trade counter locations.
Other areas being targeted by the charity include Atherstone, Bilston, Coalville, Dudley, Nuneaton, Uttoxeter, Walsall, Wednesbury and West Bromwich.
David Hemming, joint managing director at Sutton Coldfield based Burley Browne, said: “It is very satisfying to work alongside such a wonderful and well-regarded charity. St Giles Hospice’s community shop model embeds stores in their local environments, reflecting their communities and drawing strength from them.
“St Giles Hospice already has 21 stores in its current portfolio and all are profitable and raise vital funds, ensuring St Giles can continue to care for local people, and their loved ones, living with a terminal illness.
“These will all be fully refitted and refurbished over the course of the next three years as outlined in their new strategic plan.
“Now in its 40th year, the charity is [CM1] looking to extend its retail operations and we are looking for suitable properties across a wide geographic area with a view to opening a minimum of two new stores in 2023-24 and a total of 15 by 2026.”
David Underwood, retail development manager at St Giles Hospice, said: “Our shops provide vital income to help us to continue to be there for local people, and their loved ones, living with a terminal illness. Shopping in our charity shops is also an important way to shop sustainably.
“Why buy new when there could be something just right for you at a lower cost, that supports your hospice!
“Our shoppers are increasingly interested in finding sustainable items and opportunities to mix new outfits with pre-loved fashion, so we’re excited to be working with Burley Browne to bring more St Giles Hospice shops to East Staffordshire, and across the West Midlands.”
Suitable sites can range for around 750 sq ft up to5000 sq ft for the larger concept stores, such as the current stores in Mere Green and Burntwood, and must benefit from good visibility for passing trade and strong transport links with good access for donations.
Holidaymakers are being offered the opportunity to try something a bit different on a visit to Larnaka.
They can learn about local drinks with alcohol-based workshops and tasting experiences offered in the heart of Larnaka near the Municipal Market. These unique holiday activities can be enjoyed on a casual basis or in organised groups for special occasions.
One is the two-hour ‘Local Spirit Cocktail Workshop’ which reimagines Cyprus classics with a journey around the island’s rich winemaking history. Attendees will create imaginative cocktails by mixing the famous brandy sour and creating others with local wine, including the sweet Commandaria, the worlds’ oldest named wine still in production. They will also enjoy a welcome drink and take home a souvenir booklet with bartending principles.
Or there is The Oak Tree Wine Cellar & Tasting Room where the popular ‘10 Cyprus Wines Tasting’ session takes place in the cava’s wine tasting room. This 1-1.5 hours tasting includes the island’s red, white, rosé and dessert wines, including those crafted with indigenous grape varieties, whilst learning all about their origins; the viticulture of Cyprus, and the perfect food and wine pairings. Walk-ins are available for 2-3 people with reservations advised for 4 and up.
Summer is a great time to enjoy one of the traditional festivals or events taking place in the city and rural communities around Larnaka. In July the notable events that will appeal to both locals and tourists include the month-long Larnaka Festival and the King of Kite Cyprus Kitesurfing Championships (14-16). In August visitors can look forward to the Fengaros Music Festival (3-5); the Zygi Fish Festival (26) and several village festivals including the Lefkara Festival, Kiti Cultural Summerand Pervolia Cultural Festival. Visitors can keep track of what is happening via the LTB online event calendar. For more information, click here.
New trail hunt map for Larnaka’s award-winning storytelling statues
The Larnaka Storytelling Statues is an award-winning series of statues, busts and monuments that ‘talk’ to visitors in character narration when the corresponding QR code is scanned on a mobile device. New for this summer is the trail hunt map to find the city’s talking statues – a fun packed activity for all the family. The printable or downloadable map brings the monuments together for a city tour on foot that challenges inquisitive minds to guess and find the character based on a fun riddle then tick it off the map. For more information a copy of the map, click here.
Free village handicraft and enogastronomyworkshops and guided tours
For holidaymakers looking for other activities to learn about the local culture when they visit Larnaka region there are free workshops through the year. These include workshops on bee keeping, lace making, silver crafts, wood carving, ceramics and sculpture, and making local foods, plus much more. All sessions include a free guided tour for the village in which the workshop takes places. Click here to find out what is on during the summer months and to book.
For more information on all these summer activities and events and more, click here.
Sutton Coldfield Life 