Tag Archives: Travel

Gracechurch confirms Sutton Coldfield festive opening schedule

Sutton Coldfield’s Gracechurch Centre has confirmed its Christmas opening hours for 2026, giving shoppers key dates for late-night shopping, Christmas Eve, Boxing Day and the New Year period.

The shopping centre announced its festive schedule on Instagram, advising shoppers to plan ahead as Christmas approaches.

A spokesperson for the centre said: “Planning your festive shopping? Here are our Christmas opening hours to help you make the most of the season.”

Christmas opening hours

DateOpening Hours
December 3Late-night shopping until 7pm
December 10Late-night shopping until 7pm
December 17Late-night shopping until 7pm
December 19, Saturday9am–5.30pm
December 20, Sunday10.30am–4.30pm
December 21Late-night shopping until 7pm
December 22Late-night shopping until 7pm
December 23Late-night shopping until 7pm
December 24, Christmas Eve9am–5pm
December 25, Christmas DayClosed
December 26, Boxing Day9am–5.30pm
December 27, Sunday10.30am–4.30pm
December 289am–5.30pm
December 299am–5.30pm
December 309am–5.30pm
December 319am–5.30pm
January 29am–5.30pm
January 3, Sunday10.30am–4.30pm

Late night shopping

For shoppers looking to beat the Christmas rush, Gracechurch Centre will offer extended late-night shopping until 7pm on several key December dates:

  • December 3
  • December 10
  • December 17
  • December 21
  • December 22
  • December 23

These extended hours are ideal for picking up gifts, festive essentials and last-minute Christmas purchases in Sutton Coldfield.

Christmas Eve, Boxing Day and New Year hour

On Christmas Eve, Gracechurch Centre will be open from 9am to 5pm, though individual store hours may vary.

The centre will reopen on Boxing Day, December 26, from 9am to 5.30pm. The same hours will apply on December 28, 29, 30 and 31.

Sunday opening hours during the festive period are 10.30am to 4.30pm, including December 27and January 3.

For the New Year period, January 2 will run from 9am to 5.30pm.

Check individual hour before travel

Gracechurch Centre has advised that individual retailer opening hours may vary. Shoppers should check directly with specific stores before travelling.

“We look forward to welcoming you this festive season,” the spokesperson added.

Town Hall hosts inaugural Literary Arts Festival and George Benson Tribute

 Sutton Coldfield’s first-ever Literary Arts Festival is happening tomorrow, Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026, and the town is invited to join a weekend celebrating creativity — with free daytime events, family activities and a special evening of live jazz.

A weekend celebrating creativity

The historic inaugural festival promises a packed programme of literature, music, art and performance across two days, with free daytime events for visitors of all ages.

Families are encouraged to bring children along to the Kids’ Corner, where little ones can get creative with crafts and colouring throughout the festival.

Special evening entertainment

On Saturday 12 September, the celebrations continue into the evening with a special night of live jazz, music and performance featuring the Louis Connor Jazz Band.

Whether visitors join for an hour or make a whole weekend of it, the festival offers a chance to discover something new and be part of something special for Sutton Coldfield.

Event details:

  • Dates: Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026
  • Daytime events: Free
  • Evening events: Saturday 12 September (tickets required)

Tickets for the evening event are available now.

Give Me The Night: George Benson’s Greatest Hits Live

Looking ahead to later this month, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall is also preparing to welcome Nat Augustin for an unforgettable night of soul, jazz and R&B on Friday 25 September 2026.

The five-star show, titled Give Me The Night, brings the greatest hits of George Benson to the town hall, taking audiences back to the classic era with soulful vocals and an outstanding live band.

The setlist includes beloved classics such as Give Me the Night, Never Give Up on a Good Thing, Love Times Love, Turn Your Love Around, On Broadway, In Your Eyes and Feel Like Making Love.

VIP experience available

Music fans can make their evening extra special with a VIP Lounge Package, which includes:

  • Entry to the lounge up to 60 minutes before the show
  • A guaranteed table before the show and during the interval
  • A complimentary drink

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday 25 September 2026
  • Doors & Lounge Bar: 6.30pm
  • Show Starts: 7.30pm
  • Tickets: £31 per person | £46 VIP

Tickets are still available and can be booked now.

Soul of Sutton photography competition returns for third year

u_ojq9rdzqq7-camera-7726802.jpg

Sutton Coldfield Town Council has announced the return of its acclaimed Soul of Sutton Photography Competition for a third year. This free-to-enter contest invites local amateur photographers to capture the people, places, and moments that define life in the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield.

Aligned with World Photography Day 2026 and this year’s global theme, “HOME,” the competition encourages entrants to showcase their personal interpretation of home – whether through a beloved park, a historic landmark, the bustling high street, a cherished community event, or an everyday scene that tells a story.


Who Can Enter & Age Categories

The competition is open to amateur photographers who are residents, pupils, or students of Sutton Coldfield. Entries are divided into two age groups:

  • 13–17 years
  • 18 years and over

Participants may submit up to five photographs. The submission deadline is midday on Wednesday, 9 September 2026, with winners announced on Monday, 21 September 2026.


Prizes and recognition

Winners in each category will receive One4all Gift Cards:

  • 1st Place: £100
  • 2nd Place: £50
  • 3rd Place: £25

Beyond the prize, winning images will be prominently featured across the Town Council’s website, social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X), and marketing materials. Selected entries may also be considered for future exhibitions, giving photographers excellent exposure.


Why enter? – A message from the mayor

Councillor Nitish Raut, Mayor of the Sutton Coldfield, shared:

“I am delighted that the Soul of Sutton Photography Competition is returning. Previous entries have beautifully captured the spirit of our Royal Town—showcasing not only its stunning landscapes and heritage but also the deep pride our community feels for the place they call home.

“This year’s ‘HOME’ theme offers everyone a chance to share their unique perspective. I strongly encourage all eligible residents to get involved and help celebrate what makes Sutton Coldfield such a special community.”


How to submit your photos

Entries can be submitted via:

  • Email: enquiries@suttoncoldfieldtowncouncil.gov.uk
  • Post: Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, 62 Anchorage Road, Sutton Coldfield, B74 2PG
  • Social Media: Send a direct message or tag the council on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Xusing the hashtag #SoulOfSutton

Each submission must include:

  • Photographer’s full name
  • Location where the photo was taken
  • A short description of the image

Full details & terms

For complete competition rules, terms, and conditions, visit the Sutton Coldfield Town Council website.

Don’t miss this opportunity to share your vision of home and celebrate the heart of Sutton Coldfield. Enter today!

Alpacas bring joy to Sutton Coldfield care home

Residents at a care home in Sutton Coldfield received an unforgettable surprise this National Pet Day, thanks to a pair of gentle, four-legged guests.

Care UK’s Mercia Grange, located on Lichfield Road in Four Oaks, welcomed Jack and Roo – two charming alpacas from Wildwood Alpacas – for a heartwarming session of animal therapy for the elderly.

A unique sensory experience

The visit was designed to engage residents through touch, sight, and sound. The team from Wildwood Alpacas led the session, offering their expertise and encouraging residents to get hands-on. The elderly participants were invited to stroke, handle, and even feed the alpacas, who seemed to thoroughly enjoy the pampering.

One resident, Bunty Speight, described the encounter as deeply moving:

“They are so adorable. They looked right at me as if we understood each other. It’s not every day you get to connect with animals like that.”

Benefits of animal therapy for dementia care

According to care experts, interactions like these are more than just entertainment. Animal therapyhas been proven to:

  • Lift mood and reduce anxiety
  • Encourage social interaction among residents
  • Trigger positive memories, particularly for those living with dementia

Michael McNelis, Home Manager at Mercia Grange, explained:

“We always strive to create fun and interactive experiences for residents. A visit from some furry friends is a great way to bring a smile to everyone’s faces. Animal therapy is hugely beneficial for older people, especially those living with dementia, as it can help lift a person’s mood and encourage social interaction.”

He added: “We want to thank Wildwood Alpacas for making our day. We look forward to seeing our new fluffy friends again in the future!”

About Mercia Grange

Mercia Grange is a leading residential, nursing, and dementia care home in the Four Oaks area of Sutton Coldfield. The three-storey, state-of-the-art facility features:

  • 67 en suite bedrooms
  • A cinema room
  • A hair and beauty salon
  • Sadlers Café, a popular on-site café for residents and visitors

The home is designed to promote independence while offering full-time care, short-term respite stays, and specialist dementia support.

To arrange a tour or enquire about availability, contact Customer Relations Manager Sevgi Halil:

📞 Phone: 0121 314 7849
📧 Email: sevgi.halil@careuk.com
🌐 Website: careuk.com/mercia-grange

Safe parking outside schools: key guidelines

Parking in school areas can cause traffic chaos and be dangersous. West Midlands Police have put out this comprehensive guidance

Pick-up and drop-off times are busy outside schools in the Sutton Coldfield area. This can cause an increased safety risk to both children and parents.

Parking restrictions outside schools are there to keep you and your children safe. Parking inconsiderately can put people in danger and you also risk being fined. It’s important that motorists follow the Highway Code.

Parking restrictions outside schools

Understanding yellow zigzag markings

Most school entrances and exits in the UK have yellow zigzag road markings with the writing ‘School Keep Clear’.

Zigzags can also be found at entrances and exits of hospitals, fire stations, police stations and ambulance stations. They indicate the part of the road where motorists should not wait, stop, or park a vehicle.

Sometimes there may be an accompanying sign that shows specific times when these restrictions are in place. Motorists are legally allowed to park on the zigzags outside of these hours.

Both yellow and white zigzags also show areas that must be kept clear so that children and other road users can see clearly when crossing the road.

Parking on yellow zigzags

You can legally park on yellow zigzags under certain circumstances.

Yellow zigzags without accompanying signs advise motorists not to wait or park there at any time for the safety of children and others. We can and do issue tickets for parking on them, based on causing an obstruction to other motorists or pedestrians.

Some yellow zigzags have a single or double yellow line, which indicate different parking restrictions.

Find out more:

  • The Highway Code – Parking and Waiting
  • The Highway Code – Road Markings

Parking opposite yellow zigzags

You can legally park opposite yellow zigzags. However, this can make crossing the road more dangerous, especially for children. Some schools have yellow zigzags on both sides of the road for this reason.

Safety tips for parking outside schools

When picking up or dropping off children at schools, you should do the following:

· Allow yourself plenty of time as the area is likely to be busy.

· Do not park on yellow zigzag lines and avoid parking opposite them.

· If you decide to park further away, please be considerate of local residents and avoid blocking driveways or accessways.

Fines

Local councils can issue motorists with penalty charge notices (PCN) for waiting, stopping, or parking on yellow zigzags if restrictions are in place. These are issued by civil enforcement officers.

Most parking or waiting fines are now enforced as a civil matter, rather than a police matter. A PCN does not result in a criminal record or points on a licence if dealt with by the council.

In some areas, the local council doesn’t have civil parking enforcement powers. In these areas parking is enforced by us or by police-employed traffic wardens who will issue a fixed penalty notice (FPN) . These are enforced through the criminal justice system.

Fines can vary depending on location. Stopping in a restricted area outside a school will result in a higher fine. The fee is also halved if paid within 14 days and you have 28 days to pay or challenge the fine.


Harvey Norman opens new store in Sutton Coldfield

Harvey Norman, the global retail giant specialising in furniture, bedding, appliances and technology, is set to soft open its highly anticipated new store at the Gracechurch Centre.

The soft launch, commencing at 11am on Thursday 2 April, offers the local community an exclusive first look at the retailer’s integrated retail concept just in time for the Easter weekend. This opening marks a significant milestone in the brand’s UK growth strategy, building on the momentum from its flagship Merry Hill location.

A new UK headquarters in the West Midlands

Beyond serving as a premier shopping destination, the new Sutton Coldfield location will also function as Harvey Norman’s UK headquarters. This dual-purpose facility establishes a centralised hub for the company’s expanding operations, underscoring the importance of the West Midlands region to the brand’s future.

Lachlan Roach, managing director at Harvey Norman UK, commented on the strategic significance of the launch:

“We are delighted to be opening our Sutton Coldfield store and to be continuing our expansion across the UK. The West Midlands is an important region for our growth, and the Gracechurch Centre provides an excellent location for both our retail offering and our UK headquarters.”

Community partnerships: cupcakes and brass bands

To celebrate the soft opening, Harvey Norman is engaging with the local community through partnerships with independent businesses and organisations.

  • Silver Tree Bakery partnership: the first 200 customers through the doors on opening day will receive complimentary cupcakes provided by local independent business Silver Tree Bakery.
  • Live entertainment: in collaboration with Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID, a standing brass band will perform outside the store, creating a vibrant atmosphere for shoppers.

What to expect at the new store

The Gracechurch Centre location promises to deliver Harvey Norman’s signature “integrated retail” experience, bringing together a wide range of home and lifestyle products under one roof. Customers can expect dedicated departments for:

  • Furniture: living, dining and bedroom collections.
  • Bedding: mattresses and bedroom accessories.
  • Appliances: major kitchen and laundry appliances.
  • Technology: the latest in consumer electronics and computing.

Mr Roach added: “We’ve worked hard to create a space that brings together a wide range of home and lifestyle products under one roof, supported by knowledgeable teams and a strong customer experience. We’re also proud to be working with local businesses such as Silver Tree Bakery as part of our opening.”

Grand opening to follow

While the soft launch invites the public to explore the store starting 2 April, an official grand opening event is planned for the coming weeks. This event is expected to welcome VIP guests from across the UK.

Harvey Norman’s expanding UK footprint

Established in 1982, Harvey Norman operates over 300 stores worldwide across Australia, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Singapore, Slovenia and Croatia. With the addition of the Sutton Coldfield location, Harvey Norman’s UK portfolio now includes:

  • Merry Hill Shopping Centre: flagship store (opened 2024)
  • Belfast: Boucher Road and Holywood Exchange
  • Sutton Coldfield: the Gracechurch Centre (new UK headquarters)

For more information about the soft launch or to explore product ranges, visit the new store at the Gracechurch Centre starting Thursday 2 April.

Sutton Coldfield’s Bid for permanent CCTV funding

A major campaign is underway to bring permanent public CCTV cameras back to Sutton Coldfield town centre, with local business leaders appealing for capital funding to make the long-awaited project a reality.

The Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield Business Improvement District (BID), which represents 340 town centre businesses, is leading the charge to secure a permanent, long-term CCTV solution for the area.

Currently, the town centre operates without a permanent public system, relying on just two temporary cameras installed by Birmingham City Council in July 2025 after a two-year gap in coverage.

While the temporary units were welcomed as a positive interim measure, the BID is now focused on a more robust and reliable solution to ensure public safety and provide reassurance for businesses and visitors.

The plan: modern digital CCTV for key locations

After months of collaboration, Birmingham City Council has provided a formal quotation of approximately £45,000 to replace three obsolete analogue cameras with modern digital equipment. The proposed system would offer:

  • 24/7 monitoring: Live, year-round surveillance from Birmingham City Council’s operations centre.
  • Police integration: Direct liaison with West Midlands Police to ensure rapid response to incidents.
  • Zero ongoing costs: The city council has confirmed there will be no recurring charges for monitoring or recording under its existing public space CCTV arrangements.

This fully developed and costed proposal has garnered strong support from both the BID and local law enforcement.

Police endorsement: a “significant strengthening” of security

West Midlands Police has thrown its weight behind the initiative, highlighting the critical role surveillance plays in modern crime prevention.

“A modern, fully operational public CCTV network would significantly strengthen our ability to prevent crime, disrupt anti-social behaviour and bring offenders to justice. The Sutton Trinity neighbourhood police team fully supports the installation of upgraded public CCTV in Sutton Coldfield town centre,” a police spokesperson confirmed.

The funding hurdle and future ambitions

Despite the plan being ready to deploy, the project hinges on securing the initial capital investment for hardware and installation. The BID is actively engaging with key stakeholders to bridge this gap.

Michelle Baker, BID manager at Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID, emphasised the urgency of the situation. She said:

“Public safety is non-negotiable, and permanent CCTV is essential in any well-managed town centre. We have a fully developed and costed proposal that is ready to be delivered. Birmingham City Council will operate and monitor the system at no additional cost. What we need now is the capital investment to make it happen.”

In the absence of direct funding from Birmingham City Council, the BID has formally raised the issue with the Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, the town’s Pride in Place Board, and local MP Andrew Mitchell to identify a way forward.

While reinstating the three original cameras is the immediate priority, the BID has outlined a longer-term vision to expand coverage to other key areas, such as Birmingham Road, which currently lacks public CCTV despite a high concentration of bars and restaurants.

How to support

The BID is calling on local partners, stakeholders, and the community to support the campaign. By securing this essential infrastructure, Sutton Coldfield can ensure a safer, more welcoming environment for everyone.

For more information or to discuss funding contributions, contact the Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID.

Soul of Sutton Exhibition: Celebrating local photography talent

Pictured: From left – Cllr Nitish Raut, deputy mayor of Royal Sutton Coldfield, Dave Taylor, photographer of ‘Where’s Mine?’ and 2025 entrant, Emily Hannigan, matron at Good Hope Hospital and Simon Jarvis, hospital executive director at Good Hope Hospital

An award-winning photography exhibition designed to capture the “essence and soul” of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield has beenofficially hailed as a resounding success—bringing warmth, color, and comfort to patients and visitors at Good Hope Hospital.

What began as a community competition has evolved into a living art gallery within the hospital’s Treatment Centre. The ‘Soul of Sutton’ exhibition, spearheaded by the Town Council and Mayor Cllr Cindy Yip, now features 22 stunning photographic entries from local residents, with the dual purpose of showcasing local talent and improving the wellbeing of those receiving medical care.

From competition to community healing

The initiative launched in 2024 when photography enthusiasts were invited to submit images that best represented the spirit of Sutton Coldfield. After receiving a high volume of high-quality entries, the Town Council sought a way to share the work beyond a traditional gallery setting.

Simultaneously, Good Hope Hospital was actively looking to “brighten up the walls” of its Treatment Centre to bring comfort and joy to patients, visitors, and staff. A partnership was formed, and the corridor—one of the busiest thoroughfares in the hospital—was transformed into a public gallery.

Simon Jarvis, Hospital Executive Director at Good Hope Hospital, commented:
“The corridor between the Treatment Centre and the main hospital building is well-used by patients, staff and visitors. The stunning photography on display really brightens up this busy thoroughfare and further strengthens the strong ties between our hospital and the local community.”

New entries for 2025 expand the collection

Following the success of the initial 13 entries displayed in 2024, a further nine images from the 2025 competition have now been installed.

Featured residents and contributors include: Alison Matthews, Dave Taylor, Kathryn Sawbridge, Keith Wright, Harriet Birdsell, Neil Dance and Sutton Park Grange Care Home.

Tackling social isolation: The story behind ‘Where’s mine?’

One of the standout additions to the 2025 exhibition is Dave Taylor’s image, ‘Where’s mine?’. Taken at Coffee#1 in Sutton Coldfield, the photograph depicts Dave’s friend Colin enjoying a drink and a snack with his Australian Shepherd, Jake.

Dave’s motivation for entering the competition was deeply personal. Having visited the hospital previously, he and his family saw firsthand how the 2024 exhibition lifted spirits.

“We saw the images from the 2024 competition and thought they really brightened the treatment centre up and gave us something nice to focus on during our visits there,” Dave explained.

“I wanted to enter the 2025 competition in the hope that this new collection continues to bring enjoyment to other people attending Good Hope Hospital.”

His image intentionally highlights the importance of social spaces in Sutton Coldfield and their role in tackling social isolation—a theme that resonates strongly with the “Soul of Sutton” brief.

‘Seasons of Friendship’ brings care home residents into focus

Sutton Park Grange Care Home submitted ‘Seasons of Friendship at Sutton Park Grange Care Home’, a photograph that the team says “truly captures the spirit of our residents.”

“It’s a privilege to have our photograph included in this exhibition at Good Hope Hospital,” a spokesperson said.
“We hope it brightens someone’s day in the wider community of Sutton Coldfield.”

Alison Matthews: Finding beauty in Sutton Park

Amateur photographer Alison Matthews has two pieces featured in the exhibition: ‘Beautiful Blues’and ‘Proud Park Swan’. A regular walker in Sutton Park, Alison uses photography as a tool for both mental and physical health.

“I get real pleasure in sharing my photography and I am thrilled to be part of this exhibition at Good Hope Hospital,” said Alison.

“I am just a happy amateur who loves finding beauty in and around Sutton Coldfield, particularly in Sutton Park. Regular walks with my camera are what keeps me healthy, in mind as well as body! This is a great opportunity to share a little of that with patients and staff.”

Personal achievement and community pride

Keith Wright, creator of ‘Maypole Installation, Holly Knoll, Sutton Park, May 2025’, spoke about what it means to be selected for a public exhibition.

“Participating in an exhibition, after being selected in a competition, confirms a personal achievement and instils a sense of pride. Producing photographic images to a set task or theme is an enjoyable challenge for any photographer.

“Many of us, friends or family (or someone who knows us), will pass through the hospital. The printed photograph gives us time to look, experience, enjoy and discuss.”

A unique story to yell

Cllr Cindy Yip, Mayor of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, served as judge for the 2025 competition and praised the depth of talent on display.

“It was a privilege to view the entries and select winners for the 2025 Soul of Sutton competition, each one with a unique story to tell about our Royal Town.

“This is a great space to showcase the talent of local residents. Congratulations again to all the featured artists.”

Why this matters: The power of art in healthcare

The ‘Soul of Sutton’ exhibition is a prime example of the therapeutic power of visual art in healthcare environments. By replacing blank clinical walls with scenes of local nature, community life, and cherished pets, Good Hope Hospital has created a “positive distraction” for those undergoing treatment.

Residents have reported that the images provide comfort and a sense of familiarity during what can be a stressful hospital visit.


About the ‘Soul of Sutton’ Initiative
The ‘Soul of Sutton’ competition is an annual event run by Sutton Coldfield Town Council. It invites residents to submit photographic works that celebrate the people, places, and spirit of the Royal Town. Winning entries are displayed publicly to foster community pride and cultural engagement.

Visiting the Exhibition
The exhibition is located in the corridor between the Treatment Centre and the main hospital building at Good Hope Hospital. It is freely accessible to patients, visitors, and staff during hospital opening hours.

Lights switch-on sparks festive cheer in Sutton Coldfield

The festive season is officially aglow in Royal Sutton Coldfield. This year’s display features 230 energy-efficient LED lights across the town, providing brighter illumination while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to traditional bulbs. You can see the sparkling Christmas lights in the following locations:

  • Sutton Coldfield Town Centre
  • Boldmere High Street
  • Mere Green
  • Walmley
  • Wylde Green
  • Falcon Lodge
  • Minworth
  • Whitehouse Common
  • Chester Road, Kingsbury Road, Walsall Road
  • Beeches Walk, Church Hill Parade, Clarence Road, Dugdale Crescent, Hollyfield Road, Little Boldmere
  • King Edward Square

Festive Christmas Trees, funded by the Town Council, are also located at: Dugdale Crescent, Falcon Lodge, Harvest Fields, Mere Green, Minworth, Walmley, and Wylde Green.

🅿️ Free festive parking and travel scheme until Jan 4, 2026

To complement the lights and boost the local economy, the Town Council is running a free holiday parking and travel initiative.

Parking details:

Days & Times: Thursdays from 4pm, Fridays from 4pm, and all day on Saturdays and Sundays.

Participating Car Parks

  • Station Street
  • Upper & Lower Reddicroft
  • Mill Street
  • Anchorage Road
  • South Parade
  • Duke Street

The scheme also includes free bus travel and cycle hire within the area, making it seamless to visit Royal Sutton Coldfield’s town centre and local shopping parades this Christmas.

🗣️ Supporting the town centre

Cllr Simon Ward, leader of Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, said:

“I’m pleased to see the Town Council continuing to support our town centre through initiatives like the Festive Lights and Festive Travel Scheme. This outlines our commitment to local businesses and helps attract more visitors, making travel easier for shoppers during the busiest time of year.”

Plan Your Visit: Experience the festive magic, enjoy free parking on weekends and evenings, and support Royal Sutton Coldfield’s brilliant local businesses this holiday season.

Christmas Trees are also funded by the Town Council at Dugdale Crescent, Falcon Lodge, Harvest Fields, Mere Green, Minworth, Walmley and Wylde Green.

Art and opera unite at Sutton Coldfield care home

Audrey Smithem, Alan Blakeley, and Jean Greaves with artist Peter Forbes

From brushstrokes to baritones home hosts artful evening

Care UK’s Mercia Grange care home recently hosted its first-ever art exhibition, creating an unforgettable evening that blended visual art with live opera music for residents, their families, and the local community.

The event at the Lichfield Road, Four Oaks venue, showcased the remarkable artwork of Peter Forbes, a talented local artist who also serves as a valued member of the home’s maintenance team. Guests enjoyed an inspiring display of his work, featuring striking landscapes and expressive portraits, and had the opportunity to speak with Peter about his creative process.

The artistic display was complemented by a live performance from Mezzo-Soprano singer Samantha Oxborough, who captivated the audience with a selection of classic opera songs. The home’s Head Chef prepared a range of canapés and refreshments for all to enjoy.

The event was attended by Councillor Nitish Raut, Deputy Mayor of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, highlighting the home’s role within the wider community.

Resident Terry Fletcher and her son, Greg Fletcher

A Celebration of Community and Talent

Peter Forbes, the featured artist, commented: “It was a lovely evening connecting with residents and the community over art and music. It was a real privilege to share another passion of mine with everyone. A big thank you to the team and to all those who joined us.”

Michael McNelis, Home Manager at Mercia Grange, added: “We’ve loved hosting our first art exhibition and opera evening. It is important for us to connect with the community, and art is an excellent way to craft conversations and build meaningful relationships. Peter does so much for the home, so we were overjoyed to give something back and display his masterpieces.”

About Mercia Grange Care Home

Mercia Grangeprovides full-time residential, nursing, and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care and features 67 en-suite bedrooms, a cinema, a hair and beauty salon, and a pub.


For more information contact:

Rachel Mackay, Customer Relations Manager
Phone: 0121 314 7849
Email: rachel.mackay@careuk.com
Website: www.careuk.com/mercia-grange