Sutton Coldfield fun event to aid Amnesty International
Brainboxes and bright sparks are invited to test their wits at Sutton Coldfield Amnesty International Group’s annual quiz night.
Aiming to raise money for Amnesty International’s human rights work worldwide, the event takes place at Sutton Coldfield Football Club in Coles Lane B72 1NL on Friday, March 28.
Quizmaster and Sutton Coldfield Amnesty International chair Andrew Hindle says: “It’s very much a general knowledge quiz with questions on just about everything!
“We also have a raffle so it’s a fun night for everyone. Our quiz is one of our most popular events and we’d love to see some new faces join us this March. There’s no need to book, just turn up on the night.”
Doors open at 7pm with a 7.30pm kick-off. Entry costs £5 per person with teams a maximum of six people. Drinks and snacks are available at the bar.
Sutton Coldfield Amnesty International Group meets at 8pm on the second Tuesday of every month (except August) in the Conference Centre, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 69 Lichfield Road, Sutton Coldfield, B74 2NU.
Sutton Coldfield’s Good Hope Hospital will now host an Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) which has moved on a temporary and emergency basis from High Street Erdington.
North Birmingham UTC stopped operating at Erdington Health and Wellbeing Centre and is now fully operational at Good Hope Hospital. It will operate between 8am and 8pm, seven days a week.
The new location at Good Hope Hospital provides patients and UTC colleagues with better security and more modern facilities, while it will also support in reducing pressure on the hospital’s A&E department by ensuring patients who inappropriately attend A&E can be triaged and treated more quickly to the UTC.
UTCs provide urgent medical help when it’s not a life-threatening emergency and patients can access any of the six UTCs that operate across Birmingham and Solihull by contacting NHS 111 online or over the phone.
Faith Button
Patients can access, via NHS 111, any of the six UTCs in operation across Birmingham and Solihull, including Erdington UTC which is based at Stockland Green Primary Care Centre.
Faith Button, chief delivery officer at NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, said: “We remain deeply committed to the provision of healthcare services across our city and borough, including Erdington and Erdington UTC remains in operation.
“I want to stress that this is a temporary relocation which has been carried out on an emergency basis and this decision is not one which has been taken lightly.
“We are confident that the new location at Good Hope Hospital will lead to better experiences for our communities and we would encourage anyone who needs urgent healthcare to make use of it via NHS 111.”
The permanent future location of North Birmingham UTC will be decided as part of a strategic review of all UTCs across Birmingham and Solihull, which is in its preliminary stage.
As part of this review, the NHS will be engaging and consulting with communities across the area to ensure their vies play a key part in the NHS’s strategic thinking and decision-making process.
Meanwhile, the public is urged to use the right service at the right time including pharmacists, GPs and NHS 111 and 111 online if they need advice and support for health conditions. They should only call 999 or attend A&E in life-threatening emergencies.
Pharmacists can suggest treatments that do not need a prescription for a range of conditions and most offer a service called Pharmacy First which means they can provide prescription medicine for seven conditions without the need to see a GP or make an appointment.
Ellen McGinn and Kirsty Homer from Age Concern receive the cheque from Tracey Walsh and Phil Holyoak from Adlington Retirement Living
Sutton Coldfield retirement home boosts charity
Retirement home residents and staff in Sutton Coldfield made it a merry new year for charity after a seasonal fundraising event. Representatives from Age Concern Boldmere visited Broadleaf House in Wylde Green last week to meet with some of the homeowners and staff who raised funds for the local charity before Christmas.
Ellen McGinn, Guidance Co-ordinator, and Kirsty Homer, Service Manager, from Age Concern were presented with a cheque for £425 raised by homeowners, guests and staff who hosted a festive gathering at the exclusive retirement community, from Adlington Retirement Living.
The event was a huge success, attracting more than 50 attendees to enjoy festive baguettes, mince pies and a selection of hot and cold drinks whilst local singer songwriter Daniel performed in the restaurant, and a raffle added to the fun.
Graham, a homeowner at Broadleaf House, who had already received the invaluable help of Age Concern with the daunting process of applying for a ‘blue badge’ said: “It was great to see so many people meet together in support of such a worthy organisation.
“We all enjoyed our time together, appreciating some festive treats and the opportunity to express our support of Age Concern which does so much important work in our community”.
Alexandra Johnson, Sales and Marketing Director for Adlington Retirement Living said: “We were delighted to welcome so many homeowners and guests to our festive gathering and to raise funds for Age Concern.
“It was a wonderful, relaxed occasion, bringing together our homeowners, guests and even some local businesses who attended.
“Moving into an Adlington Retirement Living apartment is far more than just relocating to a new home. It’s an opportunity to become part of a thriving community and enjoy the support of a close-knit network.
“Our communities provide a safe, secure and happy environment with a circle of friends, a family of like-minded individuals, and a true sense of belonging.”
Broadleaf House offers a range of 57 age-exclusive one, two and three-bedroomed apartments. Communal facilities include a homeowners’ lounge, coffee lounge, on-site restaurant, hair salon, therapy room, and activities studio, all of which can be used by homeowners as an extension of their own private apartments.
Adlington Retirement Living also provides an on-site management team available 24hours a day, 365 days a year. Like a good neighbour, the team is the first point of contact for any problems, large or small, and always goes the extra mile to help.
A Sutton Coldfield care home has been recognised for its standards of care for veterans.
Care UK’s Mercia Grange, on Lichfield Road, has officially received ‘Veteran Friendly’ status.
The Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) is a collaboration between Armed Forces charities Royal Star & Garter and Royal British Legion, and NHS Veterans’ Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA), with funding support from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.
To achieve their Veteran Friendly status, Mercia Grange was required to meet eight standards. These included: noting Armed Forces status within care plans; addressing social isolation; and signposting to support services, such as their local Royal British Legion branch, and other charities that provide support for veterans or partners of veterans.
Mercia Grange supports veterans through a range of activities, including intergenerational history groups. The team also learn about any resident’s armed forces background within a week of the resident moving into the home.
Michael McNelis, Home Manager at Mercia Grange, said: “We’re so proud to have become a VFF-approved care home.
“We pride ourselves on being warm and inclusive to all, and with so many veterans in our home, it was important for us to ensure we can provide the right environment for them to lead fulfilling lives. We’ve learnt so much in the process and have already started implementing activities such as intergenerational history groups.
“The entire team has been working tirelessly to achieve the accreditation, and I’d like to say a big thank you to all of them. We’re looking forward to welcoming more veterans from the community into our home!”
To find out more about Mercia Grange, please call Customer Relations Manager Rachel Mackay on 0121 314 7849 or email rachel.mackay@careuk.com
Med-inspired Willow to open this month in Mere Green
Willow, the latest addition to Sutton Coldfield’s restaurant scene officially opens its doors on Thursday 20th February. The all-day Mediterranean inspired dining concept will be the third Willow site following locations in both Trentham Gardens and Telford.
Willow offers an all-day menu featuring flavours of the Mediterranean coast, served in a stylish, laidback setting and offers an eclectic all-day menu with fresh, high-quality ingredients taking centre stage.
Breakfast and brunch dishes range from the classic Willow Breakfast showcasing ‘full English’ favourites to Turkish Eggs served with smoked Greek yoghurt, chorizo, brown butter,sumac and toasted sourdough. Lighter items including the high protein granola and yoghurt bowl can be found on the Piccolo menu.
The main menu includes a selection of typical Mediterranean dishes, such as king prawn paella, roasted lamb shoulder with a feta dressing and feta & spinach orzo.
Guests can share the Mezze Grill, which includes the likes of lemon & oregano chicken with garlic & saffron cream sauce, lamb kofta, crispy potato latkes and beetroot tzatziki labneh.
In line with the Mediterranean-inspired menu, desserts including warm Greek orange cake with Greek yoghurt icing, cardamom custard and basil poached oranges.
The fully stocked bar provides a wide variety of wines, beers and spirts, as well as a range of expertly crafted cocktails and mixed drinks.
Guests can enjoy a selection of Sangrias, an Aperol Selezione, as well as the Taste of the Med menu featuring the Bella Ragazza Martini incorporating; Malfy lemon gin, passionfruit liqueur, guava purée, pineapple juice and viola. For those looking for a boozy brunch the offering also includes Bloody Mary’s, Mimosa’s and the Blueberry & Pineapple Colada.
During the day the restaurant is filled with natural light transforming into a cosy softly lit space in the evening. The new Willow site also features a stunning outdoor terrace perfect for al fresco dining and enjoying pre-dinner cocktails.
Willow says it seeks to infuse every visit with a touch of holiday charm. The new restaurant welcomes guests of all ages as well as being dog friendly with a dedicated menu for four-legged friends. Further enhancing the experience, the restaurant will host regular live music nights, featuring talented local artists, providing a lively backdrop for guests.
General Manager at Willow Mere, comments: “We’re thrilled to bring Willow to Mere Green! Our unique concept features an all-day menu complemented by regular entertainment, creating the perfect dining destination for every occasion.”
A new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant will open its doors in Sutton Coldfield next month. Parogon Group has unveiled what it describes as exciting plans for its next venue, Willow, in Mere Green,
Willow, the all-day dining destination, is bringing its signature charm to this February, with the opening date to be announced very soon. The launch marks a new chapter for the brand’s expansion plans following the successful launch of the second Willow site in Telford, last year.
Willow is part of Parogon Group’s successful portfolio of restaurants and establishments. Founded in 2007, the group has multiple venues across Staffordshire, Cheshire and Shropshire, including The Swan with Two Necks, TheOrange Tree Bar and Grill and Blockhouse Barbecue Grill. The upcoming launch of Willow will be its third location, introducing the popular dining experience to a new audience.
Serving an eclectic menu of Mediterranean-infused flavours in colourful holiday- inspired surroundings, Willow will offer all-day service and provide the ideal setting for families, friends and couples to dine and relax in a uniquely curated setting.
From signature salads to chargrilled kabab skewers, dishes will focus on innovative plates inspired by Mediterranean flavours.
Alongside its all-day main menu, guests can indulge in brunch favourites and a range of lighter lunch options. In addition, Willow also offers a traditional Sunday lunch with all the trimmings.
The venue will benefit from an outdoor terrace, ideal for al fresco dining and enjoying Willow’s signature handcrafted cocktails. It will host regular live music nights, with talented local artists, providing guests with an entertaining soundtrack to enhance their visit.
Richard Colclough, Managing Director at Parogon Group, comments: “We’re very excited to be launching our next Willow site at Mere Green. The Willow concept has garnered incredible popularity at its existing locations in Telford and Trentham, and we are looking forward to bringing this success to a new audience. Guests have embraced Willow for its year-round holiday atmosphere and signature ‘taste of the Med’ menu.”
Willow, Mere Green, also marks Parogon Group’s continued expansion.
Richard continues: “Opening our first site in the Birmingham area is a huge milestone for the group. After extensive research we’ve determined that Mere Green is the perfect location for our next venture. We look forward to celebrating the upcoming opening and the exciting year ahead!”
In the meantme, Willow invites guests to sign up for updates on the Willow, Mere Green, website for the opportunity to attend the restaurant’s soft openings, receiving 50% off food during their visit.
Care Uk Trymview hall bristol. photography 2023. Picture by Shaun Fellows / Shine Pix Ltd
As part of a nationwide initiative, a care home in Sutton Coldfieldis inviting local people to its free dementia advice event. On Wednesday 19th February, from 2pm-4pm, Care UK’s Mercia Grange, on Lichfield Road, is inviting members of the community to a special event as part of The Big Dementia Conversation.
Thgis is a nationwide initiative designed to show people how to better understand common symptoms and live well with the condition.
While general awareness of the condition has improved, data from Care UK shows two thirds of people who have a relative living with dementia (62%) initially put their symptoms down to old age. Many Brits remain unaware of the ways older people can lead meaningful lives with the condition, prompting Care UK to relaunch its Big Dementia Conversation for the second year running.
The ‘Adjusting to a Diagnosis of Dementia’ session at Mercia Grange will be led by Barbara Stephens, CEO of Dementia Pathfinders. Barbara will share insights into how someone’s journey with dementia might unfold following a diagnosis and offer advice on how to live positively with dementia, while making emotional and practical adjustments along the way. Complimentary refreshments will be available.
In addition to the event, the Sutton Coldfield community can also visit a newly launched online advice hub. The hub includes in-depth conversations with families of people living with dementia, as well as expert advice from Care UK’s dementia specialists to learn how to reduce the risks and symptoms of the condition.
Michael McNelis, Home Manager at Mercia Grange, said: “Most people will be affected by dementia in their lifetime – whether it’s through a loved one’s diagnosis or their own.
“We know just how much of a difference expert guidance can make, which is why we’re looking forward to welcoming Barbara to Mercia Grange for the Big Dementia Conversation. She will be able to provide guidance for carers, while offering insight into what it’s like to live with the condition.
“We’d like to encourage those interested in attending to book their space to avoid missing out.”
For more information on Mercia Grange and to book a place at the event, please call Customer Relations Manager Rachel Mackay on 0121 314 3196, or email rachel.mackay@careuk.com
To support people who may be experiencing symptoms of dementia or their loved ones, Care UK has set up a free helpline and advice hub. To find out more, please visit: careuk.com/bigdementiaconversation
Sutton Coldfield is one of the happiest places in the West Midlands according to a new survey. The borough came fourth across the region, behind Stratford, Leamington and neighbouring Lichfield.
The results came after estate agents Rightmove asked 35,000 people across Britain how they feel about where they live and analysed the results.
Rightmove said its study indicates that, overall, residents in Scotland, Wales and the South West are most happy with where they live, while those in the East and West Midlands are the least happy.
The only place in the West Midlands to make the top 20 this year was Stratford, which ranked number 13, with Sutton rated a still creditable 36th on the Rightmove list.
Rightmove looked at topics such as how proud residents feel about where they live, their sense of belonging to an area, community spirit, whether they can be themselves, whether they can earn enough to live comfortably in their area, public transport, sports and recreation, green spaces and artistic and cultural activities when curating their ranking.
Four Oaks resident Marion James said it was a great area to live.
She added: “We have live here for quite a few years now and the place has much to offer with good housing, schools, decent restaurants and having the beauty of Sutton Park on the doorstep.
“The Christmas market has also livened up the town centre.”
The study also found that Gen-Z generation (18 to 24-year-olds) were the most likely to say that they thought they would be happier living in a different area, while those aged 55-plus were the least likely.
Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s property expert, said: “It’s the younger generation who are most likely to say they would be happier living somewhere else, many of whom have to travel to cities for education or to find their first jobs.”
West Midlands mayor unveils public transport boost
Free weekday evening travel is being offered across the West Midlands, on all bus services, in the run up to Christmas this year, in a unique move never seen before on this scale in the UK.
Between Monday, December 9 and Friday, December 13, all of the region’s buses will be free to use from 7pm onwards, with passengers able to simply hop onboard and travel anywhere across the West Midlands bus network.
The offer, from West Midlands mayor Richard Parker, delivered in partnership with all bus operators across the region, has been designed to encourage people to leave the car at home and avoid the stress and expense of driving and parking during the busy holiday period.
Residents and visitors heading out for some late-night Christmas shopping, a pantomime or to a festive party will not need a ticket or pass during the free travel period, making it even easier and cheaper to enjoy an evening out.
The free bus travel offer highlights the importance of bus services, while supporting the region’s shops, restaurants, pubs, theatres and concert venues.
It is part of a wider programme to attract first time and long absent users on to the bus network to help tackle congestion on the region’s roads, while supporting the bus industry’s recovery from a fall in passenger numbers and increased fuel and running costs post-pandemic.
Mr Parker said: “From day one, I said that making the bus network better for the people of the West Midlands was one of my top priorities and this offer shows we, in partnership with our bus operators, are taking this challenge seriously by being the only region in the country taking these exciting steps to make a difference.
“So many of us will be heading out for parties, meals, stage shows and late-night shopping trips this Christmas.
“But it can be an expensive time of year, and I hope this free travel offer can help people save a few pounds, make their money go further and see the benefit of travelling by bus while visiting their local high streets and enjoying what our region has to offer this festive season.”
Staff from TfWM and National Express West Midlands will be on hand at key city centre locations to help customers and make sure the scheme runs smoothly during the week.
The free weekday bus travel scheme is expected to drive a 30 per cent increase in bus passenger journeys. The success of the scheme will be monitored to explore the potential for similar initiatives in the future.
The initiative is part of the £20 million Passenger Incentive Programme which is funded from the West Midlands Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP). It aims to encourage people to try bus travel for the first time or return after a period of absence, to support a passenger-led recovery of the local bus network.
The Passenger Incentive Programme has already distributed over 200,000 weeks of travel credit, generating nearly 2 million bus journeys.
Budget airline easyJet has announced it will add two additional aircraft to its Birmingham base from next summer, providing greater connectivity for customers in the Midlands and supporting around 800 jobs.
The airline says the two extra Airbus A320 aircraft will support 800 direct and indirect jobs from next summer, as well as providing greater connectivity for customers in the Midlands
easyJet operated its largest ever flying programme at Birmingham Airport in its 2024 financial year and flew over 1.6 million customers to and from Birmingham, up 53 per cent compared to last year.
Its more than doubled the number of destinations on its network since opening a base at the airport in March 2024.
The 23 new routes include services to Marrakech, Reykjavik, Hurghada, Prague, Krakow, Rovaniemi and Innsbruck, which took off for the first time this winter.
Now, the arrival of two additional Airbus A320 aircraft will enable the airline to offer customers more choice for flights and holidays across Europe, such as new routes to popular holiday island destinations like Gran Canaria and Malta, which are now on sale.
The new twice-weekly routes will take off from 2 May 2025 to Gran Canaria and from 3 June 2025 to Malta.
Ali Gayward, easyJet UK country manager, said: “Our continued success in Birmingham is a clear testament to the continued popularity of our flights and holidays, with customers choosing us for our trusted brand, unrivalled network and great value fares.
“The growth of our fleet with two additional aircraft will not only support around 800 jobs but is enabling us to further unlock the opportunity of the continuing demand that we see for both leisure and business travel in the Midlands.
“We’re already capturing this opportunity with the launch of new routes next summer, which will provide more customers with greater choice and connectivity, and we look forward to welcoming them on board.”
easyJet estimates the expansion will be worth £27 million in gross value added to the region’s economy.
The airline opened its Birmingham hub in March 2024, with the expansion taking the total number of aircraft based in the city to five Airbus A320.
Tom Screen, aviation director of Birmingham Airport said: “easyJet started its base from Birmingham Airport in March this year and since then its expansion of routes has been phenomenal.
“Offering city breaks, domestic short hops, sunshine holidays and even flights to see Santa in Lapland the airline caters for our customer’s holiday and business travel needs.
“The announcement of these two additional aircraft from Summer 2025 ensures that even more routes and frequencies will be added direct from Birmingham Airport offering customers convenient and competitive flights and holidays.”
Sutton Coldfield Life 