Lifestyle, Travel

Mama Mia, what a getaway

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The magic of the Sporades islands

TV puts Greek islands in the spotlight

The Greek island of Skiathos, known for its stunning landscapes and ‘Mamma Mia’ film locations, has long been a favourite destination for travellers seeking an idyllic Mediterranean getaway.

Now, with the ITV theatre competition, “I Have a Dream” Greek islands including Skiathos are set to become even more of an irresistible paradise for those in search of a unique holiday experience, according to Greek luxury specialist tour operator, Planet Holidays.

Hosted by radio and TV personality Zoe Ball, “I Have a Dream” is a glimpse into the world of musical theatre, celebrating the talent and entertainment of aspiring performers vying for the coveted roles of Sophie and Sky in the iconic musical, Mamma Mia!

Zoe Ball is joined by a panel of judges, including comedian and TV personality Alan Carr, singer-songwriter Jessie Ware, Olivier Award-winner Amber Riley, and Samantha Barks, a star of Frozen in London’s West End, who will provide insight, guidance, and mentorship.

The competition is set against the backdrop of the Greek islands, with the contestants judged and mentored by industry professionals through workshops, masterclasses, and live performances. The stakes are high as the contestants strive to claim the roles made famous by Amanda Seyfried and Dominic Cooper in the feel-good musical.

The grand finale will take place live at a West End theatre in London, where the two talented winners will emerge triumphant, securing the roles of Sophie and Sky in Mamma Mia! and given the chance to perform in the 25th anniversary production at the Novello Theatre.

For fans of Mamma Mia! looking to immerse themselves in the magic of Skiathos and other Greek Islands, Planet Holidays offers a range of luxury holiday packages that provide the perfect balance of leisure and exploration.

Greek island hoping to all of the Sporades includes Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, Combine all three with prices for 2024 from £3485 per person to included return flights from Gatwick plus inter-island transfers, and accommodation in 5-star luxury properties featured by Planet Holidays.

Alternatively, for just a week in Skiathos, prices from £1299 per person to include return flights from Gatwick (other UK airports also available), transfers and accommodation at the luxurious 5-star Elivi Hotel, Koukounaries, on bed and breakfast.

Travellers can experience locations featured in the Mamma Mia! films, visit quaint villages, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters that inspired the romantic scenes of the movies, indulging in Greek cuisine and hospitality at its best while enjoying the island’s vibrant culture. Plus any couples looking to tie the knot can do so through sister company Planet Weddings, nuptials are offered to Skiathos and Skopelos, as well as many more islands too. 

Planet Holidays specialises in tailor made holidays to suit individual requirements rather than offering standard packages, ideal for the independent traveller who wants to be covered by ABTA and AITO – with ‘accommodation-only’ bookings also protected. Planet Holidays and Planet Weddings, are a member of the Sunvil family.

 For further information contact Planet Holidays on 01438 841 270 or book online at www.planet-holidays.co.uk



News

Join the Sutton Coldfield mayor’s challenge

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There is still time to join the Mayor of Sutton Coldfield channel. He is inviting junior and infant schools in the Royal Town to Promote Community Involvement and Safety in and around schools 

Schools play an integral role in every community, and since children eventually grow up to become members of those same communities, it is crucial that children understand the importance of establishing good and harmonious relationships with their surrounding communities.

A connected school community of students, teachers, leaders, parents and local residents have a real opportunity to learn from each other, together in a collaborative environment, inside and outside the classroom.

Every year, the Mayor has the opportunity to come up with a different challenge, designed to engage with young people and the wider community. Through the Mayor’s Challenge scheme, Councillor Tony Briggs would like schools and their local community to join forces to promote community involvement and safety by providing funding of £700 to carry out a project or exercise that creates community cohesion, while broadening children’s education.

Examples of recent community involvement with schools in Sutton Coldfield include:

– Litter picking activities with local residents;

– inter-generational events and programmes with local care homes

– working with parents and residents to raise awareness of the importance of safe parking outside schools.

The Mayor said: “The wider community can be a useful asset in the provision of extracurricular learning and individuals and local community groups can be a valuable resource for learning. I look forward to hearing what exciting plans schools and their local community come with up with.”

To apply for the 2023/24 Mayor’s Challenge, each primary school should complete the application form they receive in the post or via email, setting out their ideas about how they would use their £700.

Deadline for all applications is Friday 17th November 2023 with grants being awarded in early January 2024.

News

St Giles Hospice fundraiser

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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

Lifestyle, Travel

Head for Cyprus this autumn

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Enjoy cultural, sporting and arts events in Larnaka

As temperatures drop in Larnaka comes alive in autumn with a vibrant array of events that celebrate tradition, culture and arts in the region. Here some of the highlights starting this week:

Biennale – October – 24th November

This is Larnaka’s largest art event that takes place every two years with an eclectic programme of events including exhibitions at museums and galleries; cultural events; cinema screenings; workshops; lectures; installations, and much more. The theme for 2023 asks the question: ‘What is it that constitutes a home, beyond just bricks and mortar?’ Click here for more info. 

Radisson Blu Larnaka International Marathon – 19th November 

Larnaka’s official marathon takes place along a pretty coastal route starting at the main promenade (Foinikoudes) and passing through the city’s landmarks, including its famous salt lakes and ancient ruins. This event attracts thousands of runners from nearly 100 countries with races suitable for all levels of runner, and there is still time to register. Click here for more info. 

Lefkara ‘Christmas Village’ – 25th November – 14th January 2024  

Visitors to Larnaka over the festive season can head up to Lefkara village to enjoy an array of festive and traditional stalls, entertainment, food and drink, children’s activities and workshops – all set against a mountain backdrop. Lefkaka is one of seven beautiful traditional villages and towns in Cyprus putting on their finest festive attire to spread the Christmas spirit. Find out more here.  

Tasty traditions from the rural women of Larnaka

The ‘Women’s Association of Rural Larnaka’ (WARL) is the heart and soul of gastronomic tradition in the Larnaka region, preserving and promoting the local customs, products and recipes for generations to come. A programme of free workshops runs up until the end of November, which includes traditional workshops by WARL members. For more info and to book, click here. There are also plenty of other WARL events taking place throughout the year, including local producer markets, cookery workshops and festivals. For more info, click here.

Take to the open road with eight ‘Larnaka thematic cycling routes’

Larnaka region is fast becoming the cyclist’s destination thanks to a variety of factors, including its optimum climate, beautiful scenery and varied and challenging terrain.  A key figure in enhancing the cycling experience is Mike Hadjioannou, founder of Activate Cyprus who provides cyclists with a one-stop-shop for cycling tours and participation in many prestigious competitions and events.

Mike says new opportunities are enabling more people to enjoy cycling: “Whilst all the tours we offer – road, mountain and gravel biking – remain popular, the latest increase in requests is for e-bikes because it’s much easier for amateur cyclists of all fitness levels to cover a greater distance on them without tiring, allowing them to experience more attractions and sights on a bike than they would normally do.” Find out about Activate Cyprus bike tours here. 

The Larnaka region also offers cyclists eight ‘Larnaka Thematic Cycling Routes’ that combine cycling with sightseeing, an ideal autumn activity to discover the Larnaka region on two wheels. Find the eight routes with downloadable pdf leaflets here. 

For more information on all these autumn activities and events and more, click here.

For tourist information from the Larnaka Tourism Board, visit www.larnakaregion.com

News

Sutton Coldfield Bracebridge

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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 

News

Sutton Coldfield

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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.”

News

New homes

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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.

Entertainment, Lifestyle, News

Mayor joined panto cast . . . oh yes he did!

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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.”

For more information visit the Town Hall website or call the box office on 011 296 9543.

News

Tea and a tour of Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

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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

A selection of miniature cakes

Allergy, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Book Afternoon Tea
Book Your Free Tour

#MyTownHall

Ways you can donate

To donate by card click here.

By cheque via our Box Office or post to:

Appeal, Royal Sutton Coldfield Community Town Hall Trust

Town Hall, Upper Clifton Road

Royal Sutton Coldfield B73 6DA

Or

You can donate by direct bank transfers:

Appeal Bank Account: SCART

Bank: Lloyds

Sort Code: 30-98-37

Account Number: 65550660

Click Here to Donate Today

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