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Lancashire Belle’s vintage tunes light up Sutton Coldfield

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A Sutton Coldfield retirement community enjoyed the tunes of yesteryear when Lancashire Belle hosted a nostalgic tea-dance

Broadleaf House swapped a quiet afternoon for swing steps when vintage vocalist Jane Francis, better known as Lancashire Belle, brought 1940s favourites to Adlington Retirement Living’s community in Wylde Green.

Guests arrived to Vera Lynn classics before the lounge filled with quicksteps, sing-alongs and plenty of toe-tapping. An elegant afternoon tea from the on-site chef provided a charming interval before a second lively set.

Jane Francis said: “These songs unlock memories and get feet moving. The best moment is when someone who hasn’t danced for years takes to the floor with a smile.”

Alexandra Johnson, Sales and Marketing Director for Adlington Retirement Living, said: “Events like this capture the spirit of Broadleaf House – beautifully designed apartments, a secure setting and a calendar of uplifting events and activities, with the right support on hand so homeowners can enjoy it all.”

Tracey Walsh, General Manager, said: “You could feel the buzz in the room. Music, friendship and a slice of cake are a fantastic way to bring people together.”

Broadleaf House offers 57 age-exclusive one, two and three-bedroom apartments with a friendly 24-hour on-site team. Communal spaces include a homeowners’ lounge, coffee lounge, on-site restaurant, hair salon, therapy room and activities studio, all set alongside beautifully maintained private gardens.

Tony, who moved to Broadleaf House in April 2025, said: “I’m so happy here. The ambience of the place is fantastic. I’m not just talking about the aesthetics; it’s the atmosphere that people generate. I have friends on tap if I want them, privacy when I don’t, staff who genuinely care, and no gardening or home maintenance.”

If you would like to find out more, a range of beautifully furnished show apartments are open to view daily at Broadleaf House, on Birmingham Road, from 10am to 5pm. Call 0121 817 8680 to find out more or visit adlington.co.uk.

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Med-style restaurant to open in Sutton Coldfield

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Willow at Mere Green to open next month

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.