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Join the Fun at Sutton Coldfield’s food and music festival

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Rugby club to host ‘Great Stuff’ food and music event on Bank holiday weekend

Event Highlights

Join the DDC Summer Send Off on Saturday, August 30, hosted by Sutton Coldfield Rugby Club for a day packed with entertainment. Experience a circus workshop, silent disco, and live performances, plus enjoy inflatables, bubble machines, and an exciting world record attempt.

Food and drink

Treat your taste buds with delicious street food from top Midlands vendors including Banquet 1415, Disco Fries, Duck & Roll, Only Jerkin’, Street Chef, Street Souvlaki, Stripclub, Tacos El Pap, Urban Cheesecake, and Victoria Crêperie. Refresh with craft beers, cocktails, and slushies from the festival bars.

Live music line-up

The Good Stuff Main Stage will showcase top local talent featuring Hockley Social Club (HSC), Lucas D & The Ghetto Groove, Metz Jnr Band, DJ Mr ‘M’ Milford, Ryan Evans, and Shanty Town.

World record attempt

Make history with the Metz Jnr Band as they attempt to break the record for “Most People Simultaneously Playing Shakers.” Every participant receives a free shaker to keep and a certificate to commemorate the event. Metz Jnr says: “Music unites people, and we can’t wait to rock Sutton Coldfield Rugby Club!”

Celebrating five years

Jack Brabant, DDC co-founder, shared: “Sutton Coldfield always gives us a warm welcome. We’re excited to bring a fresh, fun experience to the town and the West Midlands.”

DDC Summer Tour continues

The DDC Summer Tour runs from May to September with 40+ street food events across Birmingham, Solihull, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, and Staffordshire. Now in its eighth year, the tour attracts 70,000+ visitors annually—don’t miss out!

Join the fun at Sutton Coldfield Rugby Club for an unforgettable Bank Holiday weekend! 🎉

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Reaction to Sutton Park’s new parking Fees

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Council revises original charging plan

Charges for parking at Sutton Park are set to go ahead, but Birmingham City Council has announced revised charges after a public outcry.

Parking fees at three of the city’s most desirable parks: Sutton Park, Lickey Hills Country Park, and Sheldon Country Park. This decision arises from the council’s persistent financial difficulties, as they seek new revenue streams following significant budget cuts and a second consecutive rise in council tax.

A recent public consultation revealed that a majority of residents are against the proposed parking charges. Despite the considerable opposition, the Labour-run council maintains that these fees are crucial for covering the costs associated with park maintenance. They recognize that parking charges can be “controversial and unpopular,” yet stress that the income generated will not entirely cover maintenance expenses, necessitating ongoing taxpayer support.

In response to public feedback, the council has made minor adjustments to the proposed fees:

Sutton Park & Lickey Hills Country Park:

  • £1 per hour (up to 4 hours)
  • £5 for all-day parking
  • £52 for an annual permit
  • Charges apply 9 am–6 pm, 365 days a year, with a 30-minute free grace period.

Sheldon Country Park:

  • £0.75 per hour (up to 3 hours)
  • £3.50 for all-day parking
  • £52 for an annual permit
  • Same operating hours and grace period as above.

The council argues that implementing parking fees at major parks is “common practice” throughout the UK and aligns with “national best practice.”

They believe that the revised fees could help alleviate the impact on local businesses while attracting more visitors. The council aims to balance the need for revenue with the desire to maintain accessibility to these premium green spaces.

However, critics express concern that these charges may discourage individuals, particularly lower-income families, from enjoying the parks. There is apprehension that local businesses, which depend on park visitors, could face adverse effects due to diminished foot traffic.

What do you think about Sutton Park charges? Do you believe it’s truly justified?

News

Sponsor steps up to the crease for women

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Four Oaks Saints Cricket Club and CUDOS Creative partnership formed

A Sutton Coldfield cricket club has had a partner step up to the crease, with CUDOS Creative sponsoring Four Oaks Saints’ women’s team.

The firm, based at Wren’s Court, off The Parade in Sutton Coldfield,  believes that even marketing maestros know a solid partnership is the best way to ‘hit boundaries’ for community and inclusivity.

Branding and Promotion

As part of this partnership, the CUDOS Creative logo will be prominently displayed on the women’s team official kit. Additionally, CUDOS will provide support to promote the club across social media platforms, reaching new audiences and encouraging broader participation, especially within the women’s team.

Community Impact

The club aims to expand its impact both on and off the pitch by welcoming new supporters, volunteers, and players. They are also exploring opportunities for community and corporate team-building events to strengthen ties with local businesses.

CUDOS Creative

Kate Curry, Founder of CUDOS Creative, said, “We’re passionate about creativity, collaboration, and community, and this sponsorship brings all three together. Supporting the Four Oaks Saints women’s team is a wonderful opportunity to help build a future where women’s sport is celebrated and given the platform it deserves. We are excited about how we can enhance the club’s profile and visibility across our region.”

Four Oaks Saints Cricket Club

Emily Sutton from the Four Oaks Saints Cricket Club added: “ As women’s cricket continues to grow in popularity, having a sponsor that is enthusiastic about investing in its development is a significant morale boost for both the players and the community. This partnership is rooted in a mutual commitment to our local community, making it a powerful collaboration for both CUDOS Creative and Four Oaks Saints Cricket Club.”

Click here to find out more about the club and how to get involved.

News

Freight firm moves to new premises in Sutton Coldfield

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Pictured are Connor Blunt with finance director Keeley Blunt at the firm’s premises

Millennium Cargo relocates HQ to town

Sutton Coldfield has been chosen as the base for an exciting new chapter in the 28-year history of a Midlands-based freight forwarding company.

Millennium Cargo has made a bold move by relocating its headquarters to the town in a strategic shift that not only signifies growth but also positions the company for even greater opportunities.

About Millennium Cargo

Founded in 1996, Millennium Cargo is a family business that assists companies in moving goods worldwide — from shipping containers overseas to transporting urgent parcels by air.

Growth and Expansion

The move to larger premises in Sutton Coldfield coincides with the company’s continued growth in team size, client base, and international reach. Millennium Cargo collaborates with clients across the UK and around the globe, shipping everything from factory machinery to fashion wear.

A Hub for Innovation and Support

The new office will also serve as a hub for innovation, training, and client support.

A Vision for Future Growth

“Our decision to move wasn’t solely based on needing more space; it was about creating the right environment for our next stage of growth,” said Connor Blunt, commercial director of Millennium Cargo.

“We’ve spent nearly three decades building a company known for its honesty, reliability, and straightforward approach to freight. The new Sutton Coldfield office reflects the direction we’re heading — it’s modern, better connected, and provides us with the space and opportunities to serve our clients even better.”

Joining the Local Business Community

“We’re excited to join the Sutton Coldfield business community and look forward to building strong local partnerships.”

News

Sun shines on Sutton Coldfield food extravaganza

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The Sutton Coldfield Food Festival – the town’s biggest event of the year – was a sizzling success. The sun shone as more than 100 food and drink traders filled The Parade in the town centre from Friday, 11 to Sunday, 13 April.

A Culinary Delight

Following the record-breaking success of last year’s festival, organisers announced that the 2025 event featured even more culinary delights and family fun. From sizzling street food to indulgent desserts, local specialties, and refreshing drinks, there was something to please every palate.

A Collaborative Effort

The three-day event is a collaboration between Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID and LSD Promotions, aiming to celebrate local flavors and community spirit.

Free Entertainment for All

The festival also offered a range of free entertainment, including the Comedy Waiters Duo and Stilt-Walking Chefs, who appeared on Saturday and Sunday throughout the day. Additional activities included free face painting, glitter tattoos for children, and live music performances.

Community Excitement

Speaking before the event, Michelle Baker, BID manager, expressed her excitement: “We are excited to bring the Food Festival back to Sutton Coldfield for a second year. This event has truly become the town’s biggest free event, and we’re thrilled to showcase the best local and regional food once again. From delicious street food to fantastic family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great opportunity to bring people together, celebrate our town, and support local businesses with an influx of visitors!”

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Join the Young Traders Market in Sutton Coldfield on May 10

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sutton-coldfield-market.jpg

Sutton Coldfield Young Traders Market: A Launchpad for Young Entrepreneurs

Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID is hosting the inaugural Young Traders Market on Saturday, 10th May, in the town centre. This event offers budding business minds aged 11-25 from Sutton Coldfield and surrounding areas the chance to showcase their products, gain real-world experience, and kickstart their entrepreneurial journey—completely free of charge!

Why Join the Young Traders Market?

  • Showcase Your Business: Whether you sell handmade crafts, fashion, tech gadgets, artwork, food, or more, this is your chance to present your products to the public.
  • Build Your Brand: Gain valuable experience in a lively market setting and connect with customers.
  • Compete Regionally: Selected traders will have the opportunity to advance to the NMTF (National Market Traders Federation) regional finals in July.
  • Zero Costs: Free participation—gazebos and pitches are fully funded by Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID.

Who Can Apply?

  • Young entrepreneurs aged 11-25
  • Students (school, college, or university) from Sutton Coldfield and nearby areas
  • Anyone with a business idea or product to sell

Supporting Tomorrow’s Business Leaders

Michelle Baker, BID Manager at Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID, says:
“This market isn’t just about selling—it’s about discovering and nurturing the next generation of business leaders. Our local schools, colleges, and universities are full of incredible talent, and we want to help young entrepreneurs test their ideas, gain experience, and grow their businesses. This could be the start of something amazing!”

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to take your first steps into the world of business! Apply now and be part of Sutton Coldfield’s vibrant entrepreneurial community.

Event Details

📅 Date: Saturday, 10th May
📍 Location: The Parade, Sutton Coldfield Town Centre
📩 How to Apply: Email hello@visitroyalsuttoncoldfield.co.uk to express interest

News

Community Spirit Shines at Broadleaf House Fundraiser

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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. 

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Sutton Coldfield Care Home Supports Veterans

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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

For more general information, please visit careuk.com/mercia-grange

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Sutton Coldfield one of the happiest places in the West Midlands

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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.”

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Free bus travel offer this Christmas

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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.    

For more information visit the website.