Volunteers and staff on the catwalk for charity fashion show which raised over £2400

Delighted models and audience members alike were all smiles when a charity fashion show hit the catwalk in Lichfield on October 23.
Volunteers and staff from St Giles Hospice, which has a base and charity shops in Sutton Coldfield, took to the catwalk on the eveningto model a range of pre-loved clothes and accessories in front of a crowd of more than 100 people at The George Hotel in Lichfield.
The show was an exclusive ticketed event supporting the hospice, showcasing seasonal, sustainable fashion to celebrate 40 years of St Giles Hospice. All the clothing and accessories throughout the night were donated and after the show, audience members had the opportunity to purchase the outfits alongside other items in the pop-up shop.
St Giles has been providing care to local people, and their loved ones, living with a terminal illness since 1983.
Rebecca Sykes, Volunteer Model, said: “I had a great time getting out of my comfort zone and onto the catwalk. The fashion show focussed on promoting sustainable fashion, showcasing the amazing options that shopping second-hand can provide, all whilst supporting an organisation that does vital work caring for local people in my community. It was fantastic, and I can’t wait to get involved again!”

Hospice spokesperson Emma Yates said: “We are overwhelmed by the amazing support we received for our first ever fashion show – we even had a sell-out crowd!
“Everyone said they had such a fun evening, and really enjoyed the whole event from the fashion show and of course being able to purchase the items on the catwalk.
“As St Giles celebrates its 40 th anniversary, our charity fashion show was a celebration of St Giles Hospice Shops and every shopper, donor, and volunteer in our local community who has supported us throughout the past 40 years.

“A huge thank you to everyone who attended, to our wonderful volunteer models, the businesses who kindly donated raffle prizes – MGF Structural, Up Shop, Mankind Menswear, Trudie’s Sweet Shop, Love 2 Dream, L’UMO Menswear, Florist of Lichfield and ES Jewellery; and of course, The George Hotel Lichfield, for kindly providing us with a venue space free of charge.”
If you would like to find out more about St Giles Hospice and our retail shops, visit http://www.stgileshospice.com/charity-shops

Shock at sudden closure of popular park restaurant

Mystery surrounds the sudden closure of one of Sutton Coldfield’s most famous and picturesque restaurants.

The Bracebridge restaurant in Sutton Park and its associated kiosk closed suddenly this week with a Facebook message saying they were closing with a ‘heavy heart’.

It is unclear what reason for the closure, but the hospitality industry has been suffering a torrid time, first with the pandemic, staff shortages and then rocketing energy prices, putting pressure on profits.

The full Facebook message said: “It’s with a heavy heart that we have had to close the doors of The Bracebridge & The Kiosk. It’s a very emotional time for the Bracebridge family and staff. We want to say a huge thank you to our loyal customers and friends who have supported us over the years.

“We are in the process of cancelling bookings and refunding deposits. Loyal visitors expressed their sadness at the loss of the Bracebridge, following their shock announcement.

An independent restaurant sitting on the edge of Bracebridge Pool it is owned by the Brough family and on its website owner Claire Brough said: “We’re proud of our independent, family oriented business. We all feel like family, it’s a feeling we wish to share with our guests.”

People have spoken of their shock in Facebook messages at the closure of the restaurant, and the hugely popular kiosk, always popular with walkers and cyclist in the park and a spot to have a well earned drink or a quck snack.

Messages included:

• Pretty sure The Kiosk saved a few peoples lives in lockdown
• Thats’ a shock, its such a good location and restaurant. I imagine the price of the food, energy prices and all your other costs have taken their toll.
• I’m so sorry to hear this guys and will never forget the great summers we’ve had on Sutton Coldfield’s best live music terrace! I wish the whole team all the best for the future X
• So sorry to hear this 
• Noo! So sorry to read this, fabulous place! Good luck for the future 

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.

Sail like Royalty down the Nile on the 5* Alexander the Great

– Prices from £1,999 starting on 1^st September 2023 –

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 1^st 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

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.

https://www.securedbydesign.com

https://www.west-midlands.police.uk/advice-centre/crime-reduction/home-security/

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.

For more information contact David Hemming at David.hemming@burleybrowne.co.uk or call 07841 234160.