First apartments released for sale at new community in Wylde Green

Apartments at Adlington Retirement Living’s latest community in Wylde Green, Sutton Coldfield, are now available to reserve off-plan from the newly opened sales and marketing suite.

Situated in Wylde Green, on the south side of Sutton Coldfield, Broadleaf House is due to complete this autumn, ready for its first homeowners to move in before Christmas.

The new community, on Birmingham Road, has been built by Adlington Retirement Living, which specialises in designing, building and operating award-winning integrated retirement communities, and will offer 57 stylish one, two and three-bedroom retirement apartments for the over 55’s.

Alexandra Johnson, Sales and Marketing Director for Adlington Retirement Living, said: “The marketing suite is open six days a week and we’re inviting anybody considering moving to a luxury retirement apartment at Broadleaf House to speak to Susan and Karen, our friendly sales team.

“Our award-winning approach to independent living, ensures homeowners don’t have to compromise on their lifestyle, their social life or their independence. We aim to provide a community spirit, whilst promoting independence and individual respect.

It’s a chance to become part of a thriving community of like-minded people, with a shared outlook. We’re also happy to welcome well-behaved pets to our retirement communities. After all, they’re part of the family too.”

Broadleaf House will offer new friendships, social occasions, and activities that homeowners can dip into whenever the mood takes them. When they want to spend some quiet time in their own company, they own a beautiful, self-contained apartment where they can relax.

Pat, who moved to another Adlington Retirement Living community with her husband Mike, said: “It’s nice that there are all these activities going on that you can get involved with if you want to.

“There are things going on all the time. We have quiz nights, film nights and take-away meal nights. I’m joining a weekly art class here on a Monday afternoon in the activity room. I used to paint a bit. There’s also a book club and we’re planning to go out to the theatre.”

The communal facilities at Broadleaf House include a coffee lounge and homeowners’ lounge, where you can catch up with friends and neighbours, or meet for pre-lunch drinks before heading to the restaurant. There’s also a hair salon, therapy suite and activities studio, as well as a guest suite with en-suite for visiting friends and family who wish to stay overnight.

The 24-hour on-site support team provides homeowners with peace of mind and, if needed, optional personal care packages are available. Be it short-term support after an operation, or more regular, long-term tailored personal care, the team work closely with their local care partner to ensure a flexible solution to suit each individual. In addition to this, there is a sophisticated emergency call system and a security video entry system to manage access. 

Alexandra Johnson explains: “More of our Homeowners are choosing to move to retirement communities whilst they’re fit and healthy, to future-proof their retirement. We offer a personal approach to care to ensure that each individual receives just the right amount to maintain their independence, allowing them to enjoy their retirement to the full.

“Even though many of our Homeowners do not need specialist care, the Adlington on-site team is always there providing them and their families comfort that in the event of an unexpected fall help is immediately to hand.”

Philip and Edna, Adlington Retirement Living homeowners, said: “The best thing about moving here has been the peace of mind. Not only for us, but for our two daughters.”

All apartments include quality, fully fitted kitchens with integrated appliances. Many feature en-suite shower rooms as well as separate bathrooms, and most have a private patio area or walk-out balconies overlooking the beautifully landscaped gardens.

The Marketing Suite at Broadleaf House is open Monday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm. For more information, please call our helpful sales team on 0121 817 8680 or visit our websiteadlington.co.uk/WGPR.

Pop-up cinema coming to Parade

Summer visitors to Sutton Coldfield town centre will be able to grab their popcorn and settle down to enjoy the magic of the silver screen – when a ‘pop-up’ cinema is unveiled in July.

Sutton Coldfield Business Improvement District (BID) has been given the go-ahead to bring the open air pop-up cinema to the town centre this summer, as part of its ongoing Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield brand.

The outdoor cinema will open on The Parade for three days from Friday 14t to Sunday 16 July featuring a large screen, deckchairs, grass floor and a white picket fence to create the perfect summertime experience in the middle of the Royal Town.

The cinema will be free to enjoy and will screen a selection of films and this year’s Men’s and Women’s Wimbledon tennis finals.

Michelle Baker, Sutton Coldfield BID manager, said: “We’re always looking for new attractions for the town centre and what could be better in the summer months than a pop-up cinema, where shoppers can sit down and soak up a little bit of Hollywood glamour, or enjoy the excitement of Wimbledon?

“We’ll be reaching out on social media in the coming weeks to ask for suggestions of what films people would like to see screened, and if the pop-up cinema proves popular, it’s something that we could see repeated.”

The Pop-up Cinema has been arranged by Sutton Coldfield Business Improvement District, as part of its vibrant Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield brand, which aims to make the town centre a destination to spend time, eat, drink, shop and relax.

All of the events arranged by the BID are made possible by 377 local businesses who pay a levy which funds town centre initiatives. Events have included a memorable Coronation celebration, major Christmas attractions and a popular monthly Farmers Market.

Michelle added: “All of these events are funded by local businesses and aim to inject new life into the town centre, encouraging people to come a long, enjoy the free attractions and support local traders. We are very grateful that residents have responded so well to them and have lots more brilliant events and attractions lined up.”

Confirmed films will be announced nearer the time on the Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID website and social media pages.

Chamber of Commerce members enjoy big day

Two runners from Sutton Coldfield were among the thousands of who took part in the Royal Town Fun Run and raised thousands for charity.

Mark Thomas and Neha Sangar of Sutton-based Gemini Wealth Management completed course – raising more than £4,000 for charity PANS PANDAS UK.

They joined fellow members of Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce, including president Phil Arkinstall, vice-president Naeem Arif and committee member Kate Curry were among those taking part, along with employees from BMet College, Ansons Solicitors, Arthur Terry Learning Partnership, Cookes Furniture, Rotospa and the Cancer Support Centre.

Mark and Neha ran the 8.4 mile course in aid of the charity which supports children with the conditions known as PANS and PANDAS.

These conditions cause inflammation in the brain resulting in neuro-psychiatric symptoms such as OCD, tics, eating disorders and anxiety.

More commonly affecting children, these conditions can be isolating and life changing.

PANS PANDAS UK’s mission is to ensure speedy diagnosis and effective treatment for sufferers by educating the medical community as well as offering support to sufferers and their families.

The charity is Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s president Deb Leary’s chosen charity of the year.

Mark’s son Isaac suddenly became severely ill and distressed with PANS PANDAS in February 2020, aged nine.

Since then, Mark and his family have been supported by PPUK who have been on hand to offer advice, support and practical help.

PPUK are also actively ensuring that knowledge and awareness is improved – something Mark feels passionately about due to Isaac’s condition being misdiagnosed in the first 12 months due to a lack of awareness in the medical community.

Mark said: “I am so happy that we’ve managed to raise so much money for this amazing cause which is so close to my heart.

“I never thought we would raise anywhere near as much, but everybody who has heard Isaac’s story has been moved to do all they can, which is truly humbling.

“I’m not a natural runner, so the 8.4 mile course was tough, but the support from all those around me, as well as Isaac’s bravery in dealing with this awful illness, spurred me on.

“I would also like to say a huge thank you to my employer, Gemini Wealth Management, who have been both extremely considerate as well as generous in helping me with this.

“Gemini have made PPUK one of their two charity partners in 2023 as they have been so moved by Isaac’s story.”

The Chamber of Commerce event was sponsored by The Vesey Private Hospital, Rotospa, Cookes Furniture, Curry Design Stidio, Darren Langley Web Design and supported by Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council.

Describing the Chamber’s day, Phil Arkinstall said: “The atmosphere across Sutton Coldfield was fantastic, the weather didn’t disappoint and thousands of people came together for the 40^th running of the event, cheered on by thousands of local people who helped raised a huge amount of money for local charities throughout the Royal Town and further afield.

“It was also hugely encouraging to see the number of local businesses supporting the event through their employees running for good causes, attending to cheer on the participants or using the event to promote their businesses.”

Many of the Chamber runners were raising money for the UK Sepsis Trust, the Sutton Coldfield-based charity.

Wiegman names women’s squad at Boldmere St Michaels

A Sutton Coldfield football club saw a break from tradition when England head coach Sarina Wiegman announced her squad for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The decision to reveal the 23 players at a special event at Boldmere St Michael FC on May 31, follows the Lionesses’ equal access success and has been made to highlight the strong connection between the grassroots game and England teams. This will reinforce the squad’s determination to positively impact participation levels, inspire future generations and also the crucial role grassroots clubs have played in the players’ development.

Bolder was first formed in 1883 and is home to a total of 70 teams across 18 different age groups across women’s, men’s, girls’ and boys’ football.

Approximately 60 girls and boys from the club are expecting to participate in half-term football sessions before and after Wiegman speaks to the nation’s media from the club to give insight on her squad selection.

The landmark moment will begin England’s countdown to their opening game of the tournament on Saturday 22 July against Haiti in Brisbane, Australia.

Earlier this year, the Lionesses’ EURO legacy wish was achieved with the Government announcing the game-changing decision to provide girls with equal access to football in schools, as part of an all-sports pledge.  However, it remains The FA’s strategic objective for girls to have equal access to football in the community through growing the number of girls teams within grassroots clubs and ensuring Weetabix Wildcats and Squad sessions are easily accessible.

Kay Cossington, The FA’s Women’s Technical Director said: “We’re delighted to take such a major announcement into the heart of a football community and shine a light on Boldmere St. Michaels FC. The decision really emphasises the strong connection between the Lionesses and the game’s grassroots.

“The squad have used their platform to collectively champion equal access to football and it’s fantastic to visit a club that shares that ethos. Boldmere St. Michaels is a great club with brilliant provision across girls’ and boys’ football, so a very appropriate location for our World Cup journey to begin.”

Carly Cartwright from Boldmere St. Michaels FC said: “We are delighted to have been asked to host such an exciting event and as a club, are really pleased to see that all the hard work, support and commitment from our ever-growing band of volunteers, employees and the wider community is being validated. 

“In 2017, the new directors had a vision for Boldmere St Michaels Football Club, but what has been achieved since then, has far exceeded expectations.  The club has grown exponentially over the last six years and now, in our 140^th year, to be asked to be such an important part of the Lionesses’ World Cup Squad announcement, is a huge honour for us.” 

Kevin Shoemark, Birmingham County FA’s CEO: “On behalf of Birmingham County FA and all football within our county boundary, we are delighted and honoured that The FA has chosen one of our respected, three-star England-accredited grassroots football clubs to make this prestigious announcement.

“Following the success of the Women’s Euros, the interest and growth in women’s and girls’ football is at an all-time high locally and nationally.  In making the announcement, we wish Sarina, the squad, the coaching and backroom staff every success at the World Cup and thank each member, past and present, for all they have done and continue to do in promoting all aspects of the women’s and girls’ game.”

A Sutton Coldfield charity has announced it has awarded a record total of grants to nine beneficiaries in a single month.

Sutton Coldfield Charitable Trust, which strives to enhance the quality of life in Sutton Coldfield, awarded a total of £190,000 in April.

The Trust, which has been in existence for almost 500 years, offers a range of grant programmes to benefit the area and its residents.  

Latest figures highlight a total of £190,132 has been awarded to Walmley Gold Foundation CIC, You’re Cherished CIO, Sutton Coldfield United Reformed Church, Boldmere Swimming and Water Polo Club, Maney Hill Primary School, Xpress-Yourself Dance CIC, New Hall Primary School, Walmley Bowling Club and The People’s Orchestra in April alone.  

The funds will help towards several initiatives such as improving disability access, supporting mental health programmes in Sutton Coldfield schools as well as equipment costs and venue hire. 

From October 2022 to April 2023, the Trust has granted a total of £492,167 to organisations and £9,557 to individuals across Sutton Coldfield, with plans to continue making vital improvements and helping those in need in the area. Based on these results, it’s clear that April has been an especially generous month in terms of grant donations.  

Tina Swani, Chief Executive of Sutton Coldfield Charitable Trust, said: “It’s incredible to see the impact that our grants have on the organisations we can support. We’re dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Sutton Coldfield and these funds will help to achieve that for the entire community.” 

Clare Haines, Grants Manager at Sutton Coldfield Charitable Trust, added: “We’re immensely proud to support organisations and individuals in need of funding. These grants are the core of the Trust, and the impact they have can be life-changing not only for the groups themselves, but for everyone in Sutton Coldfield.  

“Our grants work to support anyone who is currently a resident in Sutton Coldfield. For community organisations who would like to apply for a grant, it must be for the benefit for residents living within the Borough of Sutton Coldfield. 

“Grants may also be awarded to individuals who have been a Sutton Coldfield resident for at least two years and are in need. 

“Such grants may help with the purchase of essential domestic equipment, to help people with disabilities, to help people with long term health problems and to meet other needs. 

“The Trust also provides school clothing grants, with application forms available through its website, and application forms can also be picked up from a local school where a pupil is a Sutton Coldfield resident. The closing date for receipt of applications is 12pm on Thursday 30 June 2023.” 

To find out more information about how to apply for a grant or on the Trust, please visit:  www.suttoncoldfieldcharitabletrust.com.  

Firefighters were called to a blaze in Sutton Park on Sunday. Fire crews from four stations raced to the Banners Gate entrance of the park, and West Midlands Fire Service have warned people to avoid the area.

The park is always vulnerable to fire during periods of dry weather.

West Midlands Fire Service tweeted on Sunday: “Firefighters from Perry Barr, Sutton Coldfield, Erdington and Aston Fire Stations are currently in attendance at a fire within Sutton park.

“Please avoid the area where possible.”

The fire is believed to be on scrubland near the Banners Gate entrance and firefighters tackled the blaze before damping down the area to prevent the blaze spreading.

Deep-set fires leave a huge amount of heat in the ground that will require watching over the next few days to ensure it doesn’t reignite.

Mere Green venue the best says CAMRA

A real ale pub in Sutton Coldfield is one of the best in the business, according to top consumer group the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

The Ale Hub in Mere Green has been awarded the coveted West Midlands pub of the year by the Lichfield, Sutton and Tamworth CAMRA for 2023.

The pub, which opened in December 2021, has quickly attracted a dedicated following and become a popular new venue in the area.

CAMRA is considered one of the most successful consumer organisations across Europe. Founded by four real ale enthusiasts back in 1971, it represents beer drinkers and pub-goers across the UK.

Its vision is to have quality real ale, cider and perry and thriving pubs in every community.

A spokesperson for the Ale Hub said: “We are very happy about this and will be continuing to serve our good beer.”

A welcoming atmosphere awaits ale enthusiasts at the tiny, but impressively laid out  micropub at the former premises of Garner Canning Solicitors on Hill Village Road.

It says its goal is to revitalise the local pub scene and provide the community with a choice of refreshing and well-kept beverages in a relaxed and friendly environment. 

Business group welcomes Cotton appointment

The appointment of a new leader for Birmingham City Council has been welcomed by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

The new leader is set to take the reins of Birmingham City Council after the Labour Party selected Councillor John Cotton to replace the outgoing Councillor Ian Ward.

Cllr Cotton, who was previously Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, has been recommended following an interview process with Labour’s ruling National Executive Committee (NEC).

The NEC has also recommended Councillor Sharon Thompson as the new deputy leader, succeeding Councillor Brigid Jones.

The changes came following the release of a report last week which was highly critical of the city council.

In a tweet on Sunday, the Birmingham Labour Group said: “At today’s meeting of the Labour Group we confirmed our brilliant new leadership team that will be taking the city forward as we seek to build a cleaner, safer and better Birmingham for everyone.”

Cllr Cotton said: “This is a huge honour, leading the city that has always been home.

“These are not the circumstances I would have wanted to take over in, but I feel I have a duty to serve. I will do all I can to unite the Birmingham Labour Party and deliver for our citizens.

“I want to pay tribute to Ian Ward who has not only led Birmingham City Council through a cost of living crisis, pandemic and delivered the greatest ever Commonwealth Games, but has given a lifetime of service to our movement.

“There is a huge amount of work to do over the coming months. We need to deliver the service improvements our communities deserve and tackle the significant financial and structural issues that threaten to impede our progress.”

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “We congratulate Cllr John Cotton and Cllr Sharon Thompson on their appointment as leader and deputy leader of Birmingham City Council.

“Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce has a long track record of working with the leadership of Birmingham City Council to bring the local business voice into the critical discussions of the day.

“We look forward to continuing that relationship as Birmingham’s businesses navigate the challenges of the current environment, while capitalising on the opportunities ahead for the city.

“Our best wishes for the future to the outgoing leader and deputy leader. In particular, I’d like to offer my thanks Cllr Brigid Jones who worked proactively with the Chamber to support and champion the needs of local businesses throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and has been committed advocate to engaging employers in tackling youth unemployment.”

A Sutton Coldfield family man has been elected as the town’s new mayor. Councillor Tony Briggs, who represents the Reddicap ward, has lived in the Royal Town with his wife Pamela for 25 years. Together they have two sons, Jonathan and David, who both studied in Sutton Coldfield.  

The new mayor, a Tory councillor, was first elected to the council in 2019 and has served on the planning and highways committee, allotment sub-committee as well as the council’s Active Travel working group.  

While the role is non-political, the Mayor presides over meetings of the council and attends events across the town . He also represents Sutton Coldfield at functions outside of the town involving local residents and organisations.  

Councillor Briggs said “I am delighted and honoured to serve as mayor for our wonderful community in Sutton Coldfield. As mayor, I plan to celebrate everything that is great about this town and look forward to working with as many different groups as possible to do this.” 

Tony serves as a school governor for Four Oaks Primary school and in his spare time he enjoys a wide range of sport, in particular local and national rugby.

To invite the mayor to an upcoming event email: enquiries@suttoncoldfieldtowncouncil.gov.uk