Advertise with Googlier.com
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0"
xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
>
<channel>
<title>B31 Voices</title>
<atom:link href="https://b31.org.uk/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
<link>https://b31.org.uk</link>
<description>Connecting Communities across South West Birmingham</description>
<lastBuildDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2026 22:29:17 +0000</lastBuildDate>
<language>en-GB</language>
<sy:updatePeriod>
hourly </sy:updatePeriod>
<sy:updateFrequency>
1 </sy:updateFrequency>
<generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.2</generator>
<image>
<url>https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/roundb31-150x150.png</url>
<title>B31 Voices</title>
<link>https://b31.org.uk</link>
<width>32</width>
<height>32</height>
</image>
<item>
<title>International Day of Birmingham 2026 ‘a roaring show of unity and celebration’</title>
<link>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/idob26/</link>
<comments>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/idob26/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marty Taylor]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2026 14:22:04 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[#PositiveSWBrum]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Arts]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Birmingham]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[top]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Artisan]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[bab]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ballet]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bazaar]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Beat]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[birmingham]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Botanical]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[brands]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brass]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brum]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[brummie]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[bull]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Businesses]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[cinema]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[college]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Conservatoire]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[council]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Day]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[FlashBab]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[gardens]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Heavy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[History]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[hole]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[house]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Independent]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[international]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Joe]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lindsey]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lord]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lycett]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[market]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mayor]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Michigan]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mockingbird]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mr Egg]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nicola]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Orchestra]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Passports]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Pennsylvania]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Randell]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Re-Union Jack]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Royal]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Santoro]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Silk]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Spackman]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Square]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Symphony]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Toledo]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[University]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[usa]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Victoria]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Yshee Black]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://b31.org.uk/?p=103450</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Residents from Birmingham, UK and international tourists filled the city’s Council House and Victoria Square for the busiest International Day of Birmingham to date. The now established international celebration of the city and its namesakes welcomed 4,000 people and hosted 100 performers, speakers and traders across 10 rooms. Brummie Passports – designed by Colour Palette […]]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><b>Residents from Birmingham, UK and international tourists filled the city’s Council House and Victoria Square for the busiest International Day of Birmingham to date.</b></p>
<p>The now established international celebration of the city and its namesakes welcomed 4,000 people and hosted 100 performers, speakers and traders across 10 rooms.</p>
<p>Brummie Passports – designed by Colour Palette and Draw My City artist Stacey Barnfield – proved popular, with all 4,000 passports issued to visitors on both days.</p>
<figure id="attachment_103453" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103453" style="width: 696px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Lady-Mayoress-and-Lord-Mayor-of-Birmingham-at-International-Day-of-Birmingham-2026-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth.jpeg"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class=" td-modal-image wp-image-103453 size-large" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Lady-Mayoress-and-Lord-Mayor-of-Birmingham-at-International-Day-of-Birmingham-2026-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" width="696" height="464" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Lady-Mayoress-and-Lord-Mayor-of-Birmingham-at-International-Day-of-Birmingham-2026-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Lady-Mayoress-and-Lord-Mayor-of-Birmingham-at-International-Day-of-Birmingham-2026-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Lady-Mayoress-and-Lord-Mayor-of-Birmingham-at-International-Day-of-Birmingham-2026-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Lady-Mayoress-and-Lord-Mayor-of-Birmingham-at-International-Day-of-Birmingham-2026-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-391x260.jpeg 391w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Lady-Mayoress-and-Lord-Mayor-of-Birmingham-at-International-Day-of-Birmingham-2026-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-630x420.jpeg 630w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Lady-Mayoress-and-Lord-Mayor-of-Birmingham-at-International-Day-of-Birmingham-2026-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-696x464.jpeg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Lady-Mayoress-and-Lord-Mayor-of-Birmingham-at-International-Day-of-Birmingham-2026-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-1068x712.jpeg 1068w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Lady-Mayoress-and-Lord-Mayor-of-Birmingham-at-International-Day-of-Birmingham-2026-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103453" class="wp-caption-text">Lady Mayoress and Lord Mayor of Birmingham at International Day of Birmingham 2026 – credit Kate Hollingsworth</figcaption></figure>
<p>Figures from the city who spoke or presented at the event included Ayan Aden, Trevor Beattie, Cold War Steve, Professor Carl Chinn MBE, PJ Ellis, Catherine O’Flynn, Ed James, Hijab Shah, Mike Gayle, Dan Lee, Jess Phillips MP, Kath Stanczyszyn, Bradley Taylor, and Kit de Waal.</p>
<p><a href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Comedian-Lindsey-Santoro-on-stage-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Bimingham-credit-@hankandmargotuk.jpeg"><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-103460" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Comedian-Lindsey-Santoro-on-stage-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Bimingham-credit-@hankandmargotuk-1024x682.jpeg" alt="" width="696" height="464" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Comedian-Lindsey-Santoro-on-stage-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Bimingham-credit-@hankandmargotuk-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Comedian-Lindsey-Santoro-on-stage-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Bimingham-credit-@hankandmargotuk-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Comedian-Lindsey-Santoro-on-stage-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Bimingham-credit-@hankandmargotuk-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Comedian-Lindsey-Santoro-on-stage-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Bimingham-credit-@hankandmargotuk-391x260.jpeg 391w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Comedian-Lindsey-Santoro-on-stage-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Bimingham-credit-@hankandmargotuk-630x420.jpeg 630w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Comedian-Lindsey-Santoro-on-stage-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Bimingham-credit-@hankandmargotuk-696x464.jpeg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Comedian-Lindsey-Santoro-on-stage-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Bimingham-credit-@hankandmargotuk-1068x712.jpeg 1068w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Comedian-Lindsey-Santoro-on-stage-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Bimingham-credit-@hankandmargotuk.jpeg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px" /></a></p>
<p>International Day of Birmingham featured performances from The Heavy Beat Brass Band, renowned arts organisations City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and Birmingham Royal Ballet, alongside live stand-up comedy from city stars Lindsey Santoro and Tal Davies.</p>
<figure id="attachment_103452" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103452" style="width: 696px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Birmingham-Royal-Ballet-dancers-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Birmingham-credit-©️hankandmargotuk.jpg"><img decoding="async" class=" td-modal-image wp-image-103452 size-large" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Birmingham-Royal-Ballet-dancers-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Birmingham-credit-©️hankandmargotuk-1024x682.jpg" alt="" width="696" height="464" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Birmingham-Royal-Ballet-dancers-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Birmingham-credit-©️hankandmargotuk-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Birmingham-Royal-Ballet-dancers-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Birmingham-credit-©️hankandmargotuk-300x200.jpg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Birmingham-Royal-Ballet-dancers-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Birmingham-credit-©️hankandmargotuk-768x512.jpg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Birmingham-Royal-Ballet-dancers-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Birmingham-credit-©️hankandmargotuk-391x260.jpg 391w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Birmingham-Royal-Ballet-dancers-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Birmingham-credit-©️hankandmargotuk-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Birmingham-Royal-Ballet-dancers-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Birmingham-credit-©️hankandmargotuk-630x420.jpg 630w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Birmingham-Royal-Ballet-dancers-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Birmingham-credit-©️hankandmargotuk-696x464.jpg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Birmingham-Royal-Ballet-dancers-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Birmingham-credit-©️hankandmargotuk-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Birmingham-Royal-Ballet-dancers-at-the-Big-Brummie-Night-Out-for-International-Day-of-Birmingham-credit-©️hankandmargotuk.jpg 2000w" sizes="(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103452" class="wp-caption-text">Birmingham Royal Ballet dancers at the Big Brummie Night Out for International Day of Birmingham – credit ©️hankandmargotuk</figcaption></figure>
<p>Exhibitions and interactive art sessions from The Archers, Bam Bam, Black Sabbath, Molly Cleaver, Foka Wolf, Matt Peers, Goldship’s Re-Union Jack, Sally Chidlow, and Tat Vision also featured in the programme.</p>
<p>An independent ‘Brummie Bazaar’ market, featuring independent businesses and brands from across the city was organised by Birmingham Artisan Markets, with a full two days of film screenings provided by Mockingbird Cinema.</p>
<p>International Day of Birmingham, which took place on Thursday 24th September 2026 and continued on Friday 25th September, saw the first time Birmingham’s Council House was open to the public on this scale in its 147-year history.</p>
<p>Spaces across the building including the grand Council Chamber, Banqueting and Drawing Rooms, and the Lord Mayor’s Suite, were filled with Brummie ephemera and experiences including a mini Birmingham Botanical Gardens installation in the building’s Glass Corridor.</p>
<p>Opening with a FlashBab (a play on flashmob) and a ceremonial raising of the International Day of Birmingham flag by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Mr Egg, and dignitaries including a representative of Birminghams in the USA, the first day saw attendance and engagement from 1,800 people.</p>
<figure id="attachment_103454" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103454" style="width: 696px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mr-Egg-holding-a-Curly-Wurly-and-the-International-Day-of-Birmingham-flag-whilst-sitting-on-the-Bull-at-Birminghams-Bullring-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" td-modal-image wp-image-103454 size-large" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mr-Egg-holding-a-Curly-Wurly-and-the-International-Day-of-Birmingham-flag-whilst-sitting-on-the-Bull-at-Birminghams-Bullring-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" width="696" height="464" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mr-Egg-holding-a-Curly-Wurly-and-the-International-Day-of-Birmingham-flag-whilst-sitting-on-the-Bull-at-Birminghams-Bullring-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mr-Egg-holding-a-Curly-Wurly-and-the-International-Day-of-Birmingham-flag-whilst-sitting-on-the-Bull-at-Birminghams-Bullring-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mr-Egg-holding-a-Curly-Wurly-and-the-International-Day-of-Birmingham-flag-whilst-sitting-on-the-Bull-at-Birminghams-Bullring-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mr-Egg-holding-a-Curly-Wurly-and-the-International-Day-of-Birmingham-flag-whilst-sitting-on-the-Bull-at-Birminghams-Bullring-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-391x260.jpeg 391w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mr-Egg-holding-a-Curly-Wurly-and-the-International-Day-of-Birmingham-flag-whilst-sitting-on-the-Bull-at-Birminghams-Bullring-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-630x420.jpeg 630w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mr-Egg-holding-a-Curly-Wurly-and-the-International-Day-of-Birmingham-flag-whilst-sitting-on-the-Bull-at-Birminghams-Bullring-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-696x464.jpeg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mr-Egg-holding-a-Curly-Wurly-and-the-International-Day-of-Birmingham-flag-whilst-sitting-on-the-Bull-at-Birminghams-Bullring-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth-1068x713.jpeg 1068w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mr-Egg-holding-a-Curly-Wurly-and-the-International-Day-of-Birmingham-flag-whilst-sitting-on-the-Bull-at-Birminghams-Bullring-credit-Kate-Hollingsworth.jpeg 1280w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103454" class="wp-caption-text"><br />Mr-Egg<br />Credit: Kate Hollingsworth</figcaption></figure>
<p><strong>Nicola Silk, executive producer of International Day of Birmingham, said:</strong> “We are truly astounded at the number of Brummies and honorary Brummies from other parts of the UK and overseas who came along to collect their Brummie Passports, celebrate our city, and recognise our fellow Birminghams around the world.</p>
<p>“The International Day of Birmingham team offers its sincere thanks to all who helped to make the two days memorable and brilliant, in particular Birmingham City Council and the Lord Mayor of Birmingham and team, Bullring Birmingham, University College Birmingham and University of Birmingham.</p>
<p>“The Brummie spirit was very much in evidence and to feel the love for Birminghams near and far at the ultimate Council House Party was very special indeed. As the Mother Brum, we are fiercely proud of our city, our cultures, and our communities, and it was incredible to see all that celebrated by so many top babs.”</p>
<p>Food and drink at International Day of Birmingham were kindly provided by independent businesses Bonehead Birmingham, Chung Ying, Cakes & Bakes from Birmingham College of Food, Juci Luci Cake Company, Loki Wine, Nortons Digbeth, Pip’s Hot Sauce, and Shabab’s Birmingham – with 300 Dim Sum, 300 samosas, 600 pints of Guinness, and 300 specially-made cupcakes served over the two days.</p>
<p>Visitors spoke live with representatives of Birminghams in Michigan, Iowa, and Toledo in the USA via ‘the Brum Hole’ – a video relay at the event, as well as meeting Randell H. Spackman from Birmingham in Pennsylvania in person – after the star of Joe Lycett’s United States of Birmingham made the trip to be part of the proceedings in the UK city for the third year running.</p>
<p><strong>Randell H. Spackman said:</strong> “I’m proud to be a part in this amazing get together, which brings such pride and much-needed silliness to the city of Birmingham.</p>
<p>“It was incredible to speak to so many people in Victoria Square, the Council House and across the city centre, especially as the ‘Huzzah, bab!’ catchphrase seems to be spreading!</p>
<p>“IDOB 2026 truly was a roaring show of unity and celebration.</p>
<p>“It’s my fellow Brummies that truly make it feel like home for me – so much so that I want to start bringing bricks back from the city to create my own little piece of Birmingham, UK back home in Birmingham, Pennsylvania.”</p>
<p>Across IDOB on Thursday, the ‘Birmingham Is…’ project from Carl Woods (Made By Brum) photographed over 30 locals (and visitors) during the celebrations in Victoria Square and in the Council House. The filmmaker will be carrying on this piece, taking our ‘Birmingham Is…’ signs across the city, collecting these sentences, to build a physical tapestry of thoughts and voices.</p>
<p>International Day of Birmingham was made possible with kind thanks to Birmingham City Council and The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, and with generous support from Bullring Birmingham, University College Birmingham, and University of Birmingham.<br />
2026 supporters also include The Arcadian, The Jack and Ada Beattie Foundation, Birmingham City University, Brumbassadors, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Birmingham Music Archive, Central BID, Chung Ying, Colmore Birmingham, The Heath Bookshop, Hollywood Monster, The Mockingbird Cinema, Nortons Digbeth, UB40, West Midlands Combined Authority, and Westside BID. The International Day of Birmingham team also extends its thanks to Brumbassadors, Guardsafe, Staybridge, and Visit Birmingham.</p>
<p>International Day of Birmingham takes place next year on Friday 24th September 2027.</p>
<p><em>Cover image: Yshee Black draped in the Re-Union Jack at Birmingham Council House credit ©️hankandmargotuk</em></p>
<hr />
<p>B31 Voices is run by volunteers and is committed to supporting communities across south west Birmingham and surrounding by keeping them informed and engaged. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/b31voices/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/B31Voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/b31voices.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bluesky</a>, <a href="https://mastodon.social/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mastodon</a>, <a href="https://www.threads.net/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Threads</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b31voices/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHOjwkmV8AEiarof7wEU0ug" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a>. Support us by donating at <a href="http://www.b31.org.uk/donate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.b31.org.uk/donate</a>. Send us local story ideas to <a href="mailto:hello@b31.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hello@b31.org.uk</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/idob26/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>Major £300k investment for popular local pub</title>
<link>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/major-300k-investment/</link>
<comments>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/major-300k-investment/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marty Taylor]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 19:04:57 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kings Norton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[top]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[atmosphere]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bulls]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Event]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[exciting]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Grandstand]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[head]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kings]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Marston’s]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Norton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[pub]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[refurbishment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[temporarily]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[transformation]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://b31.org.uk/?p=103442</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Big event atmosphere set to arrive at the Bulls Head in King’s Norton as pub temporarily closes for exciting refurbishment. The popular public house closed its doors on 28th of September to allow for an exciting refurbishment before reopening as a ‘Grandstand’ sports pub. The relaunch will be on the 21st of October. This transformation […]]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Big event atmosphere set to arrive at the Bulls Head in King’s Norton as pub temporarily closes for exciting refurbishment.</strong></h3>
<p>The popular public house closed its doors on 28th of September to allow for an exciting refurbishment before reopening as a ‘Grandstand’ sports pub. The relaunch will be on the 21st of October.</p>
<p>This transformation represents a significant investment of £300,000.</p>
<p><a href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/B31-Voices-Article-Temp-59.png"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-103444" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/B31-Voices-Article-Temp-59-300x300.png" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/B31-Voices-Article-Temp-59-300x300.png 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/B31-Voices-Article-Temp-59-150x150.png 150w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/B31-Voices-Article-Temp-59-768x770.png 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/B31-Voices-Article-Temp-59-419x420.png 419w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/B31-Voices-Article-Temp-59-696x697.png 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/B31-Voices-Article-Temp-59.png 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a>The much-loved community pub will be transformed with new features designed to deliver a stadium-style experience on every visit.</p>
<p>The refurbishment will include the installation of market-leading technology, including multiple massive screens, an immersive state-of-the-art sound system, and flexible tiered seating to guarantee a great view of the action.</p>
<p>The beer garden will also be refurbished, with new TV screens installed, and locals will be able to order through the Marston’s ‘Order & Pay’ app to ensure they never miss a minute of the action.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.bullsheadpub.co.uk/?fbclid=IwY2xjawUni1dleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mBWJyaWQRMTVEbzNuUEtDRWhsRVpRSGdzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEesXut2b6Rpa537MKqRFRN5idZHoOoLuaSyGv9IJIgzbVe1hGuDRmYnoWUldE_aem_uS_-hOG_vLodBPEVoVZQow" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Bulls Head</a> will also be decorated with local sports memorabilia and is calling on the community to share photographs and items to help celebrate the achievements of local sports stars and teams, past and present.</p>
<p><strong>Pub Partner, Katie Charalambous, said:</strong> “We are so excited about the plans to re-open as a Grandstand pub. We know our locals are sporting mad and can’t wait to be able to offer them the best possible experience when they can visit us again”</p>
<p>Located in King’s Norton, Birmingham, the Bulls Head is a community pub, perfectly positioned for locals and families to relax with a drink, catch the latest sports fixture, or refuel with some food, after taking a stroll around the nearby King’s Norton park or the Merecroft Pool nature reserve.</p>
<p>Once reopened, the pub will show all key sporting fixtures, including football, rugby, cricket, tennis, F1, darts, horse racing, and more. Regulation dartboards and pool tables will return alongside new competition leagues and free-to-play recreational sessions.</p>
<p>A new range of bar food will be introduced, perfect for half-time and larger groups. The ‘Match Day Menu’ will feature hand-held bites such as chicken wings and nachos, and pub favourites including fish & chips, grills, and burgers. The Bulls Head has also refreshed its range of drinks, with all draught beers available in 2-pint cups.</p>
<p>Local sports teams will be able to apply for a ‘Black Card’, giving them access to exclusive offers, endless chips on team nights and rewards for celebrating wins at their local.</p>
<p>The Grandstand concept follows industry research* revealing that 8.5 million consumers have watched live sport in pubs, with 86% of fans preferring sports pubs for their atmosphere, better screens and sound, and the chance to connect with friends and family.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.marstonspubs.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marston’s</a> has selected the Bulls Head for the Grandstand transformation due to its strong involvement with local sports teams, community groups and charities. The refurbishment will create an exciting new proposition for sports fans from Birmingham and beyond.</p>
<p>The Bulls Head closes on 28th September and will reopen on 21st October with a brand-new look.</p>
<p>For more information or to book a table for the reopening, visit: <a href="https://www.bullsheadpub.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bullsheadpub.co.uk/</a></p>
<hr />
<p>B31 Voices is run by volunteers and is committed to supporting communities across south west Birmingham and surrounding by keeping them informed and engaged. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/b31voices/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/B31Voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/b31voices.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bluesky</a>, <a href="https://mastodon.social/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mastodon</a>, <a href="https://www.threads.net/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Threads</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b31voices/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHOjwkmV8AEiarof7wEU0ug" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a>. Support us by donating at <a href="http://www.b31.org.uk/donate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.b31.org.uk/donate</a>. Send us local story ideas to <a href="mailto:hello@b31.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hello@b31.org.uk</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/major-300k-investment/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>RSPCA tells the West Midlands: Looking UP in supermarket could help millions this World Farmed Animal Day</title>
<link>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/rspca-tells-the-west-midlands/</link>
<comments>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/rspca-tells-the-west-midlands/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marty Taylor]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sat, 26 Sep 2026 19:44:42 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[top]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[animal]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[chicken]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Cows]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Day]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[farmed]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[hacks]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[help]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[lives]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Looking]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[millions]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[pigs]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[RSPCA]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sheep]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[shopping]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[supermarket]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Supermarkets]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[transform]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[UP]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[West Midlands]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://b31.org.uk/?p=103436</guid>
<description><![CDATA[The RSPCA has shared three simple hacks which make a big difference for farmed animals – and one is a “real surprise” to many consumers! Shoppers across the West Midlands are being urged to try a few clever tricks this World Farmed Animal Day (2nd October) – and it turns out simply changing where you […]]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>The RSPCA has shared three simple hacks which make a big difference for farmed animals – and one is a “real surprise” to many consumers!</strong></h3>
<p>Shoppers across the West Midlands are being urged to try a few clever tricks this World Farmed Animal Day (2nd October) – and it turns out simply changing where you look on the supermarket shelves can be one of the easiest ways to make a difference!</p>
<p>Animal welfare experts at the RSPCA have revealed it can be quick, and simple to make a huge difference to the lives of the billion farmed animals reared in the UK every year – sadly most of which are factory farmed*.</p>
<p><strong>Emily Harris, a campaigner for farmed animals at the RSPCA, said:</strong> “For every pet in the UK, there are nine times as many farmed animals.</p>
<p>“Every single farm animal deserves a good life – but sadly, right now, most are kept in ways which mean they do not.</p>
<p>“That’s why this World Farmed Animal Day we are sharing three simple hacks we can all do, which can improve the lives of millions of animals at a stroke – and the best news is they are all quick and easy.</p>
<p>“So next time you are at the supermarket, take action and together let’s raise the standard for farmed animals.”</p>
<ol>
<li><strong><strong><strong>Play label detective<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f50d.png" alt="🔍" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></strong></strong></strong>Don’t be fooled by just pretty pictures of rolling green fields or phrases like ‘farm fresh’, ‘happier and healthier’, or ‘room to thrive’. Make sure you look for clues – labels like <a href="http://click.agilitypr.delivery/ls/click?upn=u001.gEdGlCyREFwwWuq2Rkzjdr1VNP520q-2FT3wBjyjFMHrqJdZHCcAjWF3-2FY8CsxbRPCfrs5_xdUTvUhIjWlSJgufBblllzxVxIQZbVYNIaoQgnAsh7Ym13-2B0GRTk1OVtVSmutwm-2FURferFErmWnZnvzMnr7FTLa6NAZ3vgYwcft-2FW3LWxeHtHZ561YutQnSF-2Bce44GcNjjd2-2FQ8U6AcHIq4B-2FgKczg4qQNiIOiTp4sPnxmAH4l1qtDgdnSumgtRxgyHBpsplCtQWSwDHbsE3uYggc3-2FN7s-2Bj0508nK-2FbzfqANaXkNtvaNyDALYnYTdIRGiVQXBOsWykKPaziIqiXfzg5Lv3fIS-2FE5Tco01w8QSKUCAmL0bUh3FHE0lKa4K9vFtOqIbFU3MdPYHl6FQZbyS4qU8EnKGwqoMq4-2BHDhVI5-2BuWZf2o2OBe8DgcKKr0-2BJHcNCwoJHjlCpHXmjdOXm3b3crNUZAfgIVcbSteLUpL7523lGC-2F1-2FXyK2BSy6bX38whbEc6wekwrEhKFISqLy1gc3x-2Bq-2BCw-3D-3D" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://click.agilitypr.delivery/ls/click?upn%3Du001.gEdGlCyREFwwWuq2Rkzjdr1VNP520q-2FT3wBjyjFMHrqJdZHCcAjWF3-2FY8CsxbRPCfrs5_xdUTvUhIjWlSJgufBblllzxVxIQZbVYNIaoQgnAsh7Ym13-2B0GRTk1OVtVSmutwm-2FURferFErmWnZnvzMnr7FTLa6NAZ3vgYwcft-2FW3LWxeHtHZ561YutQnSF-2Bce44GcNjjd2-2FQ8U6AcHIq4B-2FgKczg4qQNiIOiTp4sPnxmAH4l1qtDgdnSumgtRxgyHBpsplCtQWSwDHbsE3uYggc3-2FN7s-2Bj0508nK-2FbzfqANaXkNtvaNyDALYnYTdIRGiVQXBOsWykKPaziIqiXfzg5Lv3fIS-2FE5Tco01w8QSKUCAmL0bUh3FHE0lKa4K9vFtOqIbFU3MdPYHl6FQZbyS4qU8EnKGwqoMq4-2BHDhVI5-2BuWZf2o2OBe8DgcKKr0-2BJHcNCwoJHjlCpHXmjdOXm3b3crNUZAfgIVcbSteLUpL7523lGC-2F1-2FXyK2BSy6bX38whbEc6wekwrEhKFISqLy1gc3x-2Bq-2BCw-3D-3D&source=gmail&ust=1790527826124000&usg=AOvVaw0do2Hy1bIgys5xLpBAhfNl">RSPCA Assured</a> prove that the animals have been reared to the highest welfare conditions. Labels like free-range, organic, outdoor bred/reared can help too. To get more involved, you can even add your voice to the RSPCA’s call to the UK Government to introduce <a href="http://click.agilitypr.delivery/ls/click?upn=u001.gEdGlCyREFwwWuq2Rkzjdg-2F6asU06il32QtbQBetWdg-2FyT7ROBEcXEILcCboa0iQLH0W-2FhPwz4sYC0AdycYtOFk-2BofUy0NslHgwsoymbMhs-3DUzVV_xdUTvUhIjWlSJgufBblllzxVxIQZbVYNIaoQgnAsh7Ym13-2B0GRTk1OVtVSmutwm-2FURferFErmWnZnvzMnr7FTLa6NAZ3vgYwcft-2FW3LWxeHtHZ561YutQnSF-2Bce44GcNjjd2-2FQ8U6AcHIq4B-2FgKczg4qQNiIOiTp4sPnxmAH4l1qtDgdnSumgtRxgyHBpsplCtQWSwDHbsE3uYggc3-2FN7s-2Bj0508nK-2FbzfqANaXkNtvaNyDALYnYTdIRGiVQXBOsWykKPaziIqiXfzg5Lv3fIS-2FE5Tco01w8QSKUCAmL0bUh3FHE0lKa4K9vFtOqIbFU3MdPYHl6FQZbyS4qU8EnKAI-2FXGJ1HxMtKSDkvCoO0SqRjiCceTdt8yvY2fE-2FnD252hgLYwVKFf3MbVjuH-2Fon4pKcyjLIpuQ2FC6GOFrMBADCrzZU2y1V-2Fn-2FhnEfhgVPi19fsKg-2BsVhT-2F2B-2BoEZApyA-3D-3D" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://click.agilitypr.delivery/ls/click?upn%3Du001.gEdGlCyREFwwWuq2Rkzjdg-2F6asU06il32QtbQBetWdg-2FyT7ROBEcXEILcCboa0iQLH0W-2FhPwz4sYC0AdycYtOFk-2BofUy0NslHgwsoymbMhs-3DUzVV_xdUTvUhIjWlSJgufBblllzxVxIQZbVYNIaoQgnAsh7Ym13-2B0GRTk1OVtVSmutwm-2FURferFErmWnZnvzMnr7FTLa6NAZ3vgYwcft-2FW3LWxeHtHZ561YutQnSF-2Bce44GcNjjd2-2FQ8U6AcHIq4B-2FgKczg4qQNiIOiTp4sPnxmAH4l1qtDgdnSumgtRxgyHBpsplCtQWSwDHbsE3uYggc3-2FN7s-2Bj0508nK-2FbzfqANaXkNtvaNyDALYnYTdIRGiVQXBOsWykKPaziIqiXfzg5Lv3fIS-2FE5Tco01w8QSKUCAmL0bUh3FHE0lKa4K9vFtOqIbFU3MdPYHl6FQZbyS4qU8EnKAI-2FXGJ1HxMtKSDkvCoO0SqRjiCceTdt8yvY2fE-2FnD252hgLYwVKFf3MbVjuH-2Fon4pKcyjLIpuQ2FC6GOFrMBADCrzZU2y1V-2Fn-2FhnEfhgVPi19fsKg-2BsVhT-2F2B-2BoEZApyA-3D-3D&source=gmail&ust=1790527826124000&usg=AOvVaw1DWkEmcZo83fUOC7tmnCKh">better labelling</a> so shopping is less confusing.</li>
<li><strong>Look up when you are shopping<br />
</strong><br />
If you want to find products from animals which have lived better lives – look up! <a href="http://click.agilitypr.delivery/ls/click?upn=u001.gEdGlCyREFwwWuq2Rkzjdr1VNP520q-2FT3wBjyjFMHrpwoZ3MKgtYVfbnBr385UJTilXiorH1Gy1eo2-2BIV1-2BrBw-3D-3D7fWZ_xdUTvUhIjWlSJgufBblllzxVxIQZbVYNIaoQgnAsh7Ym13-2B0GRTk1OVtVSmutwm-2FURferFErmWnZnvzMnr7FTLa6NAZ3vgYwcft-2FW3LWxeHtHZ561YutQnSF-2Bce44GcNjjd2-2FQ8U6AcHIq4B-2FgKczg4qQNiIOiTp4sPnxmAH4l1qtDgdnSumgtRxgyHBpsplCtQWSwDHbsE3uYggc3-2FN7s-2Bj0508nK-2FbzfqANaXkNtvaNyDALYnYTdIRGiVQXBOsWykKPaziIqiXfzg5Lv3fIS-2FE5Tco01w8QSKUCAmL0bUh3FHE0lKa4K9vFtOqIbFU3MdPYHl6FQZbyS4qU8EnKCxPl8xF-2FcHTzEH-2FlQpdWknSfZ4bLwZLum7B6wLc9TODTZ-2FShsZrdC63tNV-2Bk5VCKBsXKa4KrhjNto8B6bcJuJfeekc8roLabH-2F2YtJCkYxuNOfxUGFwx8IFspuFEfxnBA-3D-3D" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://click.agilitypr.delivery/ls/click?upn%3Du001.gEdGlCyREFwwWuq2Rkzjdr1VNP520q-2FT3wBjyjFMHrpwoZ3MKgtYVfbnBr385UJTilXiorH1Gy1eo2-2BIV1-2BrBw-3D-3D7fWZ_xdUTvUhIjWlSJgufBblllzxVxIQZbVYNIaoQgnAsh7Ym13-2B0GRTk1OVtVSmutwm-2FURferFErmWnZnvzMnr7FTLa6NAZ3vgYwcft-2FW3LWxeHtHZ561YutQnSF-2Bce44GcNjjd2-2FQ8U6AcHIq4B-2FgKczg4qQNiIOiTp4sPnxmAH4l1qtDgdnSumgtRxgyHBpsplCtQWSwDHbsE3uYggc3-2FN7s-2Bj0508nK-2FbzfqANaXkNtvaNyDALYnYTdIRGiVQXBOsWykKPaziIqiXfzg5Lv3fIS-2FE5Tco01w8QSKUCAmL0bUh3FHE0lKa4K9vFtOqIbFU3MdPYHl6FQZbyS4qU8EnKCxPl8xF-2FcHTzEH-2FlQpdWknSfZ4bLwZLum7B6wLc9TODTZ-2FShsZrdC63tNV-2Bk5VCKBsXKa4KrhjNto8B6bcJuJfeekc8roLabH-2F2YtJCkYxuNOfxUGFwx8IFspuFEfxnBA-3D-3D&source=gmail&ust=1790527826124000&usg=AOvVaw2ycBmi3mai9SfBbxhY0vsu">All the major supermarkets stock higher-welfare choices</a> – but they are often tucked away on higher shelves and racks. Simply scanning the whole shelf helps you spot the higher-welfare options you might otherwise miss. And if you are worried it might cost more, visit the RSPCA <a href="http://click.agilitypr.delivery/ls/click?upn=u001.gEdGlCyREFwwWuq2Rkzjdg-2F6asU06il32QtbQBetWdhFxkxEuKVomi5GDbQtDKcLcnoFT-2FhTgkOpvXdHpap93uAFWDIZEDRsduDfnwW5a4pTpWJAiV4wqI4P4rJKSvmlk1KD_xdUTvUhIjWlSJgufBblllzxVxIQZbVYNIaoQgnAsh7Ym13-2B0GRTk1OVtVSmutwm-2FURferFErmWnZnvzMnr7FTLa6NAZ3vgYwcft-2FW3LWxeHtHZ561YutQnSF-2Bce44GcNjjd2-2FQ8U6AcHIq4B-2FgKczg4qQNiIOiTp4sPnxmAH4l1qtDgdnSumgtRxgyHBpsplCtQWSwDHbsE3uYggc3-2FN7s-2Bj0508nK-2FbzfqANaXkNtvaNyDALYnYTdIRGiVQXBOsWykKPaziIqiXfzg5Lv3fIS-2FE5Tco01w8QSKUCAmL0bUh3FHE0lKa4K9vFtOqIbFU3MdPYHl6FQZbyS4qU8EnKLu8jcg23OaKrvnv7GTy9ALA1BYf45R86a7RLCqnRF3CaYyRfXbTPvWJ25YeFj7M-2FQUJfBMhbWBPWTwLyBDswjFQNeyoaGJOzgU7eeqA7f4oo-2BlIa5haxhxwIALUfqQ3Pw-3D-3D" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://click.agilitypr.delivery/ls/click?upn%3Du001.gEdGlCyREFwwWuq2Rkzjdg-2F6asU06il32QtbQBetWdhFxkxEuKVomi5GDbQtDKcLcnoFT-2FhTgkOpvXdHpap93uAFWDIZEDRsduDfnwW5a4pTpWJAiV4wqI4P4rJKSvmlk1KD_xdUTvUhIjWlSJgufBblllzxVxIQZbVYNIaoQgnAsh7Ym13-2B0GRTk1OVtVSmutwm-2FURferFErmWnZnvzMnr7FTLa6NAZ3vgYwcft-2FW3LWxeHtHZ561YutQnSF-2Bce44GcNjjd2-2FQ8U6AcHIq4B-2FgKczg4qQNiIOiTp4sPnxmAH4l1qtDgdnSumgtRxgyHBpsplCtQWSwDHbsE3uYggc3-2FN7s-2Bj0508nK-2FbzfqANaXkNtvaNyDALYnYTdIRGiVQXBOsWykKPaziIqiXfzg5Lv3fIS-2FE5Tco01w8QSKUCAmL0bUh3FHE0lKa4K9vFtOqIbFU3MdPYHl6FQZbyS4qU8EnKLu8jcg23OaKrvnv7GTy9ALA1BYf45R86a7RLCqnRF3CaYyRfXbTPvWJ25YeFj7M-2FQUJfBMhbWBPWTwLyBDswjFQNeyoaGJOzgU7eeqA7f4oo-2BlIa5haxhxwIALUfqQ3Pw-3D-3D&source=gmail&ust=1790527826124000&usg=AOvVaw0iRg3_KRoDsSFvHG8jfzQk">website</a> for tips on how to make your higher welfare products go further by adding in tasty alternatives like beans, lentils and tofu. Half and half anyone?</li>
<li><strong>Do mini maths with small swaps 🖩</strong><br />
Small swaps in your shopping basket can help make a big difference for farmed animals. According to new University of Lincoln research, trimming our animal product intake by only three per cent a year – the equivalent of eating just three fewer burgers or seven fewer sausages annually for most people – could spare a staggering one billion land animals from lower-welfare farming by 2050. Ready for the 3% challenge? Don’t worry you don’t need to be Einstein to figure out what to swap. Simply try the RSPCA’s new free online <a href="http://click.agilitypr.delivery/ls/click?upn=u001.gEdGlCyREFwwWuq2Rkzjdg-2F6asU06il32QtbQBetWdg-2FyT7ROBEcXEILcCboa0iQBKIHau3CW8Ji-2FAxcrOSkEUGyRtb0rpZCa1H3UsVbVi7H8Qk5I9Ckbf0MPoyRm8ZqfzkUfRnHRWns6hk-2FqhChoGb0rIO6VJxFnNaOH28NMb2kq5aB-2F0H3zxyZdYMVyfkLw9db_xdUTvUhIjWlSJgufBblllzxVxIQZbVYNIaoQgnAsh7Ym13-2B0GRTk1OVtVSmutwm-2FURferFErmWnZnvzMnr7FTLa6NAZ3vgYwcft-2FW3LWxeHtHZ561YutQnSF-2Bce44GcNjjd2-2FQ8U6AcHIq4B-2FgKczg4qQNiIOiTp4sPnxmAH4l1qtDgdnSumgtRxgyHBpsplCtQWSwDHbsE3uYggc3-2FN7s-2Bj0508nK-2FbzfqANaXkNtvaNyDALYnYTdIRGiVQXBOsWykKPaziIqiXfzg5Lv3fIS-2FE5Tco01w8QSKUCAmL0bUh3FHE0lKa4K9vFtOqIbFU3MdPYHl6FQZbyS4qU8EnKLK0GMrmfFqZjZS9eRZG1D5pKs9nbaNQ26Ln3wfGyN-2B2zBjKq-2BamgPvpzh2MJLNMDpwSUhfYLUFag43neYLis-2BEd2GG5cJXoroju33ZGr5d6RZS0BOJ-2FnBxjEiOiL5iLgQ-3D-3D" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://click.agilitypr.delivery/ls/click?upn%3Du001.gEdGlCyREFwwWuq2Rkzjdg-2F6asU06il32QtbQBetWdg-2FyT7ROBEcXEILcCboa0iQBKIHau3CW8Ji-2FAxcrOSkEUGyRtb0rpZCa1H3UsVbVi7H8Qk5I9Ckbf0MPoyRm8ZqfzkUfRnHRWns6hk-2FqhChoGb0rIO6VJxFnNaOH28NMb2kq5aB-2F0H3zxyZdYMVyfkLw9db_xdUTvUhIjWlSJgufBblllzxVxIQZbVYNIaoQgnAsh7Ym13-2B0GRTk1OVtVSmutwm-2FURferFErmWnZnvzMnr7FTLa6NAZ3vgYwcft-2FW3LWxeHtHZ561YutQnSF-2Bce44GcNjjd2-2FQ8U6AcHIq4B-2FgKczg4qQNiIOiTp4sPnxmAH4l1qtDgdnSumgtRxgyHBpsplCtQWSwDHbsE3uYggc3-2FN7s-2Bj0508nK-2FbzfqANaXkNtvaNyDALYnYTdIRGiVQXBOsWykKPaziIqiXfzg5Lv3fIS-2FE5Tco01w8QSKUCAmL0bUh3FHE0lKa4K9vFtOqIbFU3MdPYHl6FQZbyS4qU8EnKLK0GMrmfFqZjZS9eRZG1D5pKs9nbaNQ26Ln3wfGyN-2B2zBjKq-2BamgPvpzh2MJLNMDpwSUhfYLUFag43neYLis-2BEd2GG5cJXoroju33ZGr5d6RZS0BOJ-2FnBxjEiOiL5iLgQ-3D-3D&source=gmail&ust=1790527826124000&usg=AOvVaw3jT2NYq_CghBoF_oRwKD7e">food impact calculator</a> for a personalised plan of how tiny daily choices add up to huge results.</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Emily added:</strong> “Small, easy, everyday changes can make a real difference for farmed animals. This doesn’t require big restrictions or giving up favorite foods – it starts with small, achievable shifts.</p>
<p>“It’s a real surprise to many consumers that simply thinking about where they look on the shelves, cluing up on labels and making small swaps can open up lots of higher welfare options.</p>
<p>“Together, savvy choices add up to real impact and results for animals.”</p>
<hr />
<p>B31 Voices is run by volunteers and is committed to supporting communities across south west Birmingham and surrounding by keeping them informed and engaged. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/b31voices/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/B31Voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/b31voices.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bluesky</a>, <a href="https://mastodon.social/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mastodon</a>, <a href="https://www.threads.net/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Threads</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b31voices/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHOjwkmV8AEiarof7wEU0ug" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a>. Support us by donating at <a href="http://www.b31.org.uk/donate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.b31.org.uk/donate</a>. Send us local story ideas to <a href="mailto:hello@b31.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hello@b31.org.uk</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/rspca-tells-the-west-midlands/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>Man suffers head injury in Kings Norton disorder</title>
<link>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/man-suffers-head-injury-in-kings-norton-disorder/</link>
<comments>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/man-suffers-head-injury-in-kings-norton-disorder/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Sas Martindale-Taylor]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:24:44 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Kings Norton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[top]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[B38]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[disorder]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dornie Drive]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[head injury]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[imjury]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[west midlands police]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[WMP]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://b31.org.uk/?p=103417</guid>
<description><![CDATA[West Midlands Police are investigating after a man, in his 60s, suffered a head injury in a disorder in Kings Norton yesterday (Friday 11th September). A cordon was in place while initial investigations were carried out. A spokesperson for WMP said: “We were called to Dornie Drive, Kings Norton after a report of a disorder. […]]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>West Midlands Police are investigating after a man, in his 60s, suffered a head injury in a disorder in Kings Norton yesterday (Friday 11th September).</strong></h3>
<p>A cordon was in place while initial investigations were carried out.</p>
<p>A spokesperson for WMP said: “We were called to Dornie Drive, Kings Norton after a report of a disorder.</p>
<p>“Officers attended and a man in his 60s was found with a non life-threatening head injury.</p>
<p>“He was taken to hospital for further treatment and enquiries to locate suspects are ongoing.”</p>
<p><strong>Anyone with information is asked to contact West Midlands Police on Live Chat at <a href="http://www.west-midlands.police.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.west-midlands.police.uk</a> (8am – midnight) or to call 101 any time. Please quote log number 3137 of 11 September.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit <a href="http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.crimestoppers-uk.org</a> </strong></p>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/man-suffers-head-injury-in-kings-norton-disorder/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>Award-winning charity superstore by Birmingham Hospice serves up new café</title>
<link>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/award-winning-charity-superstore-by-birmingham-hospice-serves-up-new-cafe/</link>
<comments>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/award-winning-charity-superstore-by-birmingham-hospice-serves-up-new-cafe/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marty Taylor]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Sat, 12 Sep 2026 14:10:45 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[#PositiveSWBrum]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Harborne]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[top]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[birmingham]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brum]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[coffee]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[harborne]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hospice]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Melo]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mezzanine]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Reloved]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[superstore]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://b31.org.uk/?p=103407</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Birmingham Hospice is proud to announce the opening of a new café, mello, in award-winning Harborne superstore Reloved Brum. Co-founders Bhav Chamdal and Josh Thomas have been hard at work with their team over the past few weeks to bring mello to life, serving quality coffee and delicious locally sourced food. They have breakfast and […]]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Birmingham Hospice is proud to announce the opening of a new café, mello, in award-winning Harborne superstore Reloved Brum.</strong></h3>
<p>Co-founders Bhav Chamdal and Josh Thomas have been hard at work with their team over the past few weeks to bring mello to life, serving quality coffee and delicious locally sourced food. They have breakfast and lunch options, as well as pastries and treats, all with a sustainable and local ethos.<br />
<style type="text/css">
#tdi_1 .td-doubleSlider-2 .td-item1 {
background: url(https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-1-80x60.jpg) 0 0 no-repeat;
}
#tdi_1 .td-doubleSlider-2 .td-item2 {
background: url(https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-2-80x60.jpg) 0 0 no-repeat;
}
#tdi_1 .td-doubleSlider-2 .td-item3 {
background: url(https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-1-80x60.jpg) 0 0 no-repeat;
}
#tdi_1 .td-doubleSlider-2 .td-item4 {
background: url(https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-2-80x60.jpg) 0 0 no-repeat;
}
#tdi_1 .td-doubleSlider-2 .td-item5 {
background: url(https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-3-80x60.jpg) 0 0 no-repeat;
}
</style>
<div id="tdi_1" class="td-gallery td-slide-on-2-columns">
<div class="post_td_gallery">
<div class="td-gallery-slide-top">
<div class="td-gallery-title"></div>
<div class="td-gallery-controls-wrapper">
<div class="td-gallery-slide-count"><span class="td-gallery-slide-item-focus">1</span> of 5</div>
<div class="td-gallery-slide-prev-next-but">
<i class = "td-icon-left doubleSliderPrevButton"></i>
<i class = "td-icon-right doubleSliderNextButton"></i>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class = "td-doubleSlider-1 ">
<div class = "td-slider">
<div class = "td-slide-item td-item1">
<figure class="td-slide-galery-figure td-slide-popup-gallery">
<a class="slide-gallery-image-link" href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-1.jpg" title="Bhav and Josh 1" data-caption="" data-description="Bhav and Josh">
<img decoding="async" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-1-315x420.jpg" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-1-315x420.jpg 315w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-1-225x300.jpg 225w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-1-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-1-300x400.jpg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-1-696x928.jpg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-1-1068x1424.jpg 1068w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-1.jpg 1125w" sizes="(max-width: 315px) 100vw, 315px" alt="">
</a>
<figcaption class = "td-slide-caption td-gallery-slide-content"><span>Bhav and Josh</span></figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<div class = "td-slide-item td-item2">
<figure class="td-slide-galery-figure td-slide-popup-gallery">
<a class="slide-gallery-image-link" href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-2.jpg" title="Bhav and Josh 2" data-caption="" data-description="Bhav and Josh">
<img decoding="async" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-2-315x420.jpg" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-2-315x420.jpg 315w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-2-225x300.jpg 225w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-2-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-2-300x400.jpg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-2-696x928.jpg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Bhav-and-Josh-2.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 315px) 100vw, 315px" alt="">
</a>
<figcaption class = "td-slide-caption td-gallery-slide-content"><span>Bhav and Josh</span></figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<div class = "td-slide-item td-item3">
<figure class="td-slide-galery-figure td-slide-popup-gallery">
<a class="slide-gallery-image-link" href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-1.jpg" title="Mello 1" data-caption="" data-description="">
<img decoding="async" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-1-315x420.jpg" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-1-315x420.jpg 315w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-1-225x300.jpg 225w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-1-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-1-300x400.jpg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-1-696x928.jpg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-1-1068x1424.jpg 1068w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-1.jpg 1125w" sizes="(max-width: 315px) 100vw, 315px" alt="">
</a>
</figure>
</div>
<div class = "td-slide-item td-item4">
<figure class="td-slide-galery-figure td-slide-popup-gallery">
<a class="slide-gallery-image-link" href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-2.jpg" title="Mello 2" data-caption="" data-description="">
<img decoding="async" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-2-315x420.jpg" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-2-315x420.jpg 315w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-2-225x300.jpg 225w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-2-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-2-300x400.jpg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-2-696x928.jpg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-2.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 315px) 100vw, 315px" alt="">
</a>
</figure>
</div>
<div class = "td-slide-item td-item5">
<figure class="td-slide-galery-figure td-slide-popup-gallery">
<a class="slide-gallery-image-link" href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-3.jpg" title="Mello 3" data-caption="" data-description="">
<img decoding="async" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-3-315x420.jpg" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-3-315x420.jpg 315w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-3-225x300.jpg 225w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-3-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-3-300x400.jpg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-3-696x928.jpg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Mello-3.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 315px) 100vw, 315px" alt="">
</a>
</figure>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class = "td-doubleSlider-2">
<div class = "td-slider">
<div class = "td-button td-item1">
<div class = "td-border"></div>
</div>
<div class = "td-button td-item2">
<div class = "td-border"></div>
</div>
<div class = "td-button td-item3">
<div class = "td-border"></div>
</div>
<div class = "td-button td-item4">
<div class = "td-border"></div>
</div>
<div class = "td-button td-item5">
<div class = "td-border"></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<strong>They said:</strong> “We are very excited to introduce Mello to the Harborne superstore! As members of the Harborne community ourselves it’s extra special to us to be able to bring our coffee and some great food to the high street whilst supporting Birmingham Hospice. We can’t wait to get started!”</p>
<p>Birmingham Hospice is not fully funded by the government, and has to rely on fundraising and retail activity from its 27 stores across the region. This year, it needs to raise £8 million through fundraising activity, income from shops and voluntary donations to cover the costs of running the charity. Mello café will give Reloved Brum shoppers a unique experience with the option to have some quality food and drink while shopping to support their local hospice.</p>
<p><strong>Ed Blackwell, Store Manager at Reloved Brum, said:</strong> “We’re thrilled to have Mello café in store at Reloved Brum, serving drinks and tasty food from locally sourced ingredients. We’re excited for customers to enjoy some tasty treats while shopping for bargains in the heart of Harborne, and we’re looking forward to welcoming the community.”</p>
<p>Mello can be found on the mezzanine of the shop at 48-50 High Street, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9NE. The team can’t wait to welcome customers from Harborne and beyond!</p>
<hr />
<p>B31 Voices is run by volunteers and is committed to supporting communities across south west Birmingham and surrounding by keeping them informed and engaged. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/b31voices/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/B31Voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/b31voices.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bluesky</a>, <a href="https://mastodon.social/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mastodon</a>, <a href="https://www.threads.net/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Threads</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b31voices/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHOjwkmV8AEiarof7wEU0ug" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a>. Support us by donating at <a href="http://www.b31.org.uk/donate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.b31.org.uk/donate</a>. Send us local story ideas to <a href="mailto:hello@b31.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hello@b31.org.uk</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/award-winning-charity-superstore-by-birmingham-hospice-serves-up-new-cafe/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>New market aims to boost south Brum economy</title>
<link>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/new-market-aims-to-boost-south-brum-economy/</link>
<comments>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/new-market-aims-to-boost-south-brum-economy/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marty Taylor]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Fri, 11 Sep 2026 15:26:25 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[#PositiveSWBrum]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bournville]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[top]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[farmers]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[food]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[market]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[plants]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[produce]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[sycamore]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[trust]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[vegetables]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[village]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://b31.org.uk/?p=103394</guid>
<description><![CDATA[A new farmers market is to launch in Bournville, bringing a range of local, independent food producers and farmers to the heart of the Village. Bournville Village Farmers Market will welcome 50 stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, handmade produce and more to Sycamore Road, which runs alongside the award-winning Bournville Green. It will be run […]]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>A new farmers market is to launch in Bournville, bringing a range of local, independent food producers and farmers to the heart of the Village.</strong></h3>
<p>Bournville Village Farmers Market will welcome 50 stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, handmade produce and more to Sycamore Road, which runs alongside the award-winning Bournville Green.</p>
<p>It will be run by event organisers 1508 Ltd, which host a successful market in Harborne Village, with support from Bournville Village Trust which manages the Bournville Estate.</p>
<p>It’s hoped the market will help to draw more visitors to Bournville Village and give a welcome boost to the local economy, including to independent shops and visitor attractions in the area.</p>
<figure id="attachment_103397" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103397" style="width: 717px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sycamore-Road-which-is-home-to-fantastic-independent-shops.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-103397" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sycamore-Road-which-is-home-to-fantastic-independent-shops.jpg" alt="" width="717" height="480" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sycamore-Road-which-is-home-to-fantastic-independent-shops.jpg 717w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sycamore-Road-which-is-home-to-fantastic-independent-shops-300x201.jpg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sycamore-Road-which-is-home-to-fantastic-independent-shops-627x420.jpg 627w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sycamore-Road-which-is-home-to-fantastic-independent-shops-696x466.jpg 696w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 717px) 100vw, 717px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103397" class="wp-caption-text">Stewart@stewartwrittle.co.uk</figcaption></figure>
<p><strong>Julia Robinson, Bournville Placeshaping Manager at Bournville Village Trust, said:</strong> “High streets and shopping parades are the life blood of a community, and we want to protect ours by encouraging more people to visit Bournville and enjoy everything it has to offer.</p>
<p>“For conscientious shoppers, Bournville Village Farmers Market is also a great chance to support sustainable shopping by buying from local independent traders whose food miles are minimal.</p>
<p>“We are pleased to be able to offer our support to 1508, which will run and manage the market, and to bring something new, vibrant and exciting to the Bournville Village community and the wider south Birmingham area.”</p>
<p><strong>Rachael Giaramita, Founder of 1508 Ltd, said:</strong> “Farmers Markets are so much more than a shopping experience; they’re the chance to enjoy time together as a family, meet friends and support your local independents in a warm and welcoming environment.</p>
<p>“We can’t wait to bring our experience and enthusiasm to Bournville Village Farmers Market and to hopefully meet lots of people from the local community.”</p>
<p><strong>Councillor Roxanne Green, Bournville & Cotteridge Ward (Green Party), said:</strong> “It’s good to see this new addition to the local community. Farmers’ markets are a great way to shop sustainably and to support local independent producers.”</p>
<p>Many high streets across Birmingham have struggled over recent years, with empty units and vape and betting shops dominating once thriving and vibrant shopping areas.</p>
<p>Bournville Village Trust, which has special powers under the Bournville Scheme of Management to manage and protect the Estate, is committed to sustaining thriving communities, which mean its shopping areas have been largely protected.</p>
<p>The charitable trust has also benefitted from support from the Enterprise Zone fund administered by Birmingham City Council to create a Cultural Action Area in the village.</p>
<p>Bournville Village Farmers Market will launch on Saturday 3rd October, coinciding with national Buy British Day, and will then run on the first Saturday of each month up until December 2026. If the market is successful, it’s hoped it will become a permanent addition to Bournville Village’s visitor offer.</p>
<p>The market will run from 10am-3pm, with a road closure in place on Sycamore Road up until 6pm to protect the safety of visitors and stall holders and facilitate accessibility. The shopper’s car park will remain open.</p>
<p>Bournville Village Trust is one of the Midlands’ longest-serving independent charitable trusts.</p>
<p>It works within more than a dozen diverse communities in south and central Birmingham and Telford and aims to create and sustain communities where people can thrive.</p>
<p>It was founded by social reformer and chocolate maker George Cadbury in 1900 and provides services to over 9,000 households and 25,000 people.</p>
<hr />
<p>B31 Voices is run by volunteers and is committed to supporting communities across south west Birmingham and surrounding by keeping them informed and engaged. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/b31voices/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/B31Voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/b31voices.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bluesky</a>, <a href="https://mastodon.social/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mastodon</a>, <a href="https://www.threads.net/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Threads</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b31voices/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHOjwkmV8AEiarof7wEU0ug" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a>. Support us by donating at <a href="http://www.b31.org.uk/donate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.b31.org.uk/donate</a>. Send us local story ideas to <a href="mailto:hello@b31.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hello@b31.org.uk</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/new-market-aims-to-boost-south-brum-economy/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>‘Inseparable’ siblings seek home together</title>
<link>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/inseparable-siblings-seek-home-together/</link>
<comments>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/inseparable-siblings-seek-home-together/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marty Taylor]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 2026 19:31:51 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Frankley]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[top]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[adopt]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[birmingham]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[dogs]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[frankley]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ginny]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[hospital]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kelly Legg]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kennel]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Neville]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Pair]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[RSPCA]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Supervisor]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://b31.org.uk/?p=103388</guid>
<description><![CDATA[An ‘inseparable’ brother and sister doggy duo who have spent their whole lives together are on the lookout for a home that will take them both in. Three-year-old crossbreed siblings Ginny and Neville have been by each other’s sides their entire lives. They arrived in the RSPCA’s care in July having been rescued from unsuitable […]]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>An ‘inseparable’ brother and sister doggy duo who have spent their whole lives together are on the lookout for a home that will take them both in.</strong></h3>
<p>Three-year-old crossbreed siblings Ginny and Neville have been by each other’s sides their entire lives.</p>
<p>They arrived in the RSPCA’s care in July having been rescued from unsuitable conditions in a multi-animal household where they’d been wholly shut off from the outside world. But they’ve flourished while in the care of RSPCA Birmingham Animal Centre, in Frankley Green.<br />
<a href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/GN3.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" td-modal-image aligncenter wp-image-103391 size-full" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/GN3.jpeg" alt="" width="732" height="542" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/GN3.jpeg 732w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/GN3-300x222.jpeg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/GN3-567x420.jpeg 567w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/GN3-80x60.jpeg 80w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/GN3-696x515.jpeg 696w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></a><br />
<strong>Kennel Supervisor Kelly Legg said:</strong> “When they first arrived the outside world was completely alien to them. We don’t believe they’d ever worn a harness or been on a walk. But slowly, with patience, encouragement and each other, they’ve blossomed.</p>
<p>“Ginny and Neville have been through so much together but they’ve always had each other to lean on.</p>
<p>“Now they’re safe, they’re cared for and they don’t need to worry anymore. But we do want to ensure that they’ll have each other for the next chapter in their lives.</p>
<p>“So we’re searching for a truly special home that can open their hearts to not one rescue dog, but two. We’d love Ginny and Neville to find a home together; we simply couldn’t bear to part them after everything they’ve faced together.”</p>
<p>The pair have slowly been learning what life is like. They’d never been on walks before but now they enjoy going on adventures together.</p>
<p>Ginny is the confident one and provides Neville with reassurance. But they’d both be best suited to a quiet and calm adult-only home.<br />
<a href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/unnamed-43.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-103390" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/unnamed-43-1004x1024.jpg" alt="" width="696" height="710" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/unnamed-43-1004x1024.jpg 1004w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/unnamed-43-294x300.jpg 294w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/unnamed-43-768x783.jpg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/unnamed-43-412x420.jpg 412w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/unnamed-43-696x710.jpg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/unnamed-43-1068x1089.jpg 1068w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/unnamed-43-356x364.jpg 356w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/unnamed-43.jpg 1206w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px" /></a><br />
<strong>Kelly added:</strong> “We’re hoping they’ll be the centre of someone’s world; they really do deserve it.</p>
<p>“Ginny is a social butterfly and loves meeting new dogs when they’re out and about but Neville prefers to keep his distance. For this reason, and because their bond is so special, we’d like them to be the only dogs in any new home.”</p>
<p>The pair would benefit from owners who are around for most of the time, especially while they’re settling in, as they learn a new environment and routine. With patience, guidance and consistency, they’ll flourish.</p>
<p><strong>Kelly added:</strong> “If you could open your heart to a pair of gentle and devoted companions then you’ll get so much in return. They’ve shown how much they can achieve together, imagine what they could do with a loving family behind them?</p>
<p>“They don’t need a perfect home; they just need a loving home. Somewhere Neville can feel safe because Ginny is beside him.</p>
<p>“Somewhere Ginny can relax because she knows her brother is okay.</p>
<p>“Somewhere they can discover all the wonderful things they’ve never experienced before. They’ve taken those first brave steps together with us at the RSPCA; could you take them the rest of the way?”</p>
<p>Find out more about <a href="https://www.rspca.org.uk/findapet/search/details/-/Animal/Ginny/ref/ANI13227/rehome" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ginny</a> and <a href="https://www.rspca.org.uk/findapet/search/details/-/Animal/Neville/ref/ANI13152/rehome" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Neville</a> on their online profiles or contact the team at RSPCA Birmingham Animal Centre on <a href="mailto:birmac@rspca.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">birmac@rspca.org.uk</a> or 0300 123 8585.</p>
<p>‘<a href="https://tiltify.com/rspca-england-and-wales/stream-for-every-kind" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stream for Every Kind</a>‘ – the RSPCA’s annual streaming event, takes place in the first weekend of Adoptober, the charity’s annual month-long pet rehoming drive (October 2 – 4). Those streaming and raising money for the RSPCA will help the charity raise awareness and vital funds for its work, including helping to rehome animals like Ginny and Neville, at a time when animal cruelty has sadly been on the rise. Streamers are encouraged to undertake acts of kindness as part of their efforts – either within virtual gaming worlds, or as part of their streams if they are creating other content.</p>
<hr />
<p>B31 Voices is run by volunteers and is committed to supporting communities across south west Birmingham and surrounding by keeping them informed and engaged. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/b31voices/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/B31Voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/b31voices.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bluesky</a>, <a href="https://mastodon.social/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mastodon</a>, <a href="https://www.threads.net/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Threads</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b31voices/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHOjwkmV8AEiarof7wEU0ug" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a>. Support us by donating at <a href="http://www.b31.org.uk/donate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.b31.org.uk/donate</a>. Send us local story ideas to <a href="mailto:hello@b31.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hello@b31.org.uk</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/inseparable-siblings-seek-home-together/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>Nurses, pharmacists and physiotherapists take the plunge for Birmingham Hospice</title>
<link>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/nurses-pharmacists-and-physiotherapists-take-the-plunge-for-birmingham-hospice/</link>
<comments>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/nurses-pharmacists-and-physiotherapists-take-the-plunge-for-birmingham-hospice/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marty Taylor]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 2026 18:49:22 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[#PositiveSWBrum]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Birmingham]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Selly Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[top]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Airfield]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[birmingham]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clinical]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Fundraising]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hospice]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[jump]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kara Volante]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[nurses]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Pharmacists]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[physiotherapists]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[plunge]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Shropshire]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[sky]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Skydive]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Tilstock]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Whitchurch]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://b31.org.uk/?p=103384</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Fifteen staff members and supporters of Birmingham Hospice are taking on a skydive this weekend (Saturday 12th September) to raise much needed funds. The group will be completing a sky dive at Tilstock Airfield in Whitchurch, Shropshire. They have covered the full cost of the skydive themselves to ensure that all donations go directly to […]]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Fifteen staff members and supporters of Birmingham Hospice are taking on a skydive this weekend (Saturday 12th September) to raise much needed funds.</strong></p>
<p>The group will be completing a sky dive at Tilstock Airfield in Whitchurch, Shropshire. They have covered the full cost of the skydive themselves to ensure that all donations go directly to the charity which needs to raise £8 million this year to keep running.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_103385" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103385" style="width: 696px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Skydive-Lisa-and-Preet.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Skydive-Lisa-and-Preet-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="696" height="928" class="size-large wp-image-103385" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Skydive-Lisa-and-Preet-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Skydive-Lisa-and-Preet-225x300.jpg 225w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Skydive-Lisa-and-Preet-300x400.jpg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Skydive-Lisa-and-Preet-315x420.jpg 315w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Skydive-Lisa-and-Preet-696x928.jpg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Skydive-Lisa-and-Preet-1068x1424.jpg 1068w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Skydive-Lisa-and-Preet.jpg 1125w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103385" class="wp-caption-text">Lisa and Preet</figcaption></figure>Medicines Management Lead, Lisa Wall-Hayes, 56, initially decided to do the jump and had soon inspired other team members to join her.</p>
<p><strong>Lisa said:</strong> “Working where we do at the hospice you never know what’s round the corner. Life is too short and not everyone gets the opportunity to do bucket list stuff, so to do something mad like skydiving at my age and raise money at the same time is absolutely brilliant.</p>
<p>“A massive thank you to everyone involved; the money we raise will help our hospice make a difference to patients and their families. You are all truly inspirational.”</p>
<p><strong>Meanwhile Facilities Manager Emma Hollyoak, 43, commented:</strong> “As Birmingham Hospice’s facilities manager, I see first-hand every day the incredible work our teams do to support patients and their families during some of the most difficult times in their lives.</p>
<p>“That made choosing the charity I work for an easy decision. There seemed no better reason to jump out of a plane than to raise vital funds for such an incredible cause.”</p>
<p><strong>Clinical Nurse Specialist, Kara Volante said:</strong> “I’m super excited to do this with our amazing team, for all our lovely patients and their families.”</p>
<p>For more information or to arrange interviews please contact Communications and Marketing manager Lucy Kapasi on 07483 964192</p>
<p>Photos: L to R Medicines management lead Lisa-Wall Hayes and Physiotherapist Preet Kaur get ready for the day outside our Erdington Hospice</p>
<p>L to R Healthcare Assistant Jai Muldoon, Facilities Manager Emma Hollyoak and Healthcare Assistant Mandy Pritchard gear up for their skydive at our Selly Park site.</p>
<hr />
<p>B31 Voices is run by volunteers and is committed to supporting communities across south west Birmingham and surrounding by keeping them informed and engaged. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/b31voices/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/B31Voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/b31voices.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bluesky</a>, <a href="https://mastodon.social/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mastodon</a>, <a href="https://www.threads.net/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Threads</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b31voices/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHOjwkmV8AEiarof7wEU0ug" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a>. Support us by donating at <a href="http://www.b31.org.uk/donate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.b31.org.uk/donate</a>. Send us local story ideas to <a href="mailto:hello@b31.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hello@b31.org.uk</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/nurses-pharmacists-and-physiotherapists-take-the-plunge-for-birmingham-hospice/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>Five years as one hospice. Over a century of care.</title>
<link>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/five-years-as-one-hospice-over-a-century-of-care/</link>
<comments>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/five-years-as-one-hospice-over-a-century-of-care/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marty Taylor]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 2026 17:32:09 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[#PositiveSWBrum]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Selly Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[top]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[birmingham]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Cancer]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[care]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Cathy Adkins]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clinical]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[end]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[erdington]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Fiona Place]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[home]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hospice]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[John]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[life]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mary's]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[NHS]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[nurse]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Palliative]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[specialist]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Specialists]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[St]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[support]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Taylor]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://b31.org.uk/?p=103377</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Birmingham Hospice is celebrating five years as one hospice after two historic hospices merged in 2021, expanding on the specialist palliative and end of life care the two organisations delivered to people across the city for over 100 years. The organisation was formed in 2021 when two hospices with more than a century of care between […]]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Birmingham Hospice is celebrating five years as one hospice after two historic hospices merged in 2021, expanding on the specialist palliative and end of life care the two organisations delivered to people across the city for over 100 years. </strong></p>
<p>The organisation was formed in 2021 when two hospices with more than a century of care between them came together; John Taylor Hospice in Erdington and Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice in Selly Park.</p>
<p>It later rebranded as <a href="http://www.birminghamhospice.org.uk" target="_blank">Birmingham Hospice</a>, bringing its services together under one name while continuing its shared commitment to compassionate, specialist care.</p>
<p>Over the past last five years, the hospice’s Inpatient Units (IPUs) at Selly Park and Erdington have welcomed over 1,790 patients, providing expert care, comfort and support when it is needed most.</p>
<p>Former nurse Fiona Place, 55, has personal experience of what Birmingham Hospice does.</p>
<figure id="attachment_103378" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-103378" style="width: 696px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fiona-Place-and-Cathy-Adkins.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" td-modal-image wp-image-103378 size-large" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fiona-Place-and-Cathy-Adkins-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="696" height="464" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fiona-Place-and-Cathy-Adkins-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fiona-Place-and-Cathy-Adkins-300x200.jpg 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fiona-Place-and-Cathy-Adkins-768x512.jpg 768w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fiona-Place-and-Cathy-Adkins-391x260.jpg 391w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fiona-Place-and-Cathy-Adkins-630x420.jpg 630w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fiona-Place-and-Cathy-Adkins-696x464.jpg 696w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fiona-Place-and-Cathy-Adkins-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Fiona-Place-and-Cathy-Adkins.jpg 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-103378" class="wp-caption-text">Fiona Place and Cathy Adkins</figcaption></figure>
<p>Fiona spent her working life caring for others, having worked for the NHS since she was 17. But her life changed overnight when she was diagnosed with cancer and told she would need palliative care.</p>
<p>“I went to see the oncologist and was told by doctors that there was nothing else they could do, and they referred me to Birmingham Hospice,” said Fiona.</p>
<p>“I’ve got great support from family and friends, but my diagnosis was definitely a shock to the system. I had to retire from nursing because of the pain caused by the tumour.”</p>
<p>Fiona was first supported at home by Clinical Nurse Specialists from Birmingham Hospice’s Community Team, who provided expert advice, symptom management and reassurance.</p>
<p>When she became too unwell to remain there, Fiona spent several weeks in hospital before moving to Birmingham Hospice’s Erdington Inpatient Unit, where the team has been helping to manage her pain and make her more comfortable.</p>
<p>Her care has also extended beyond managing her symptoms. Following a lengthy period in bed, physiotherapists from the hospice’s Therapies Team have been helping Fiona rebuild her strength and regain some independence.</p>
<p>“The hospice is a very calming environment; everyone’s full of empathy with a smile on their face and you can have some banter. Everyone’s so lovely here and they have time to talk to you. Everyone treats the patients with respect and care.”</p>
<p>Despite having spent much of her life working within the NHS, being cared for by the hospice has given Fiona a new perspective.</p>
<p>“You always think cancer will never happen to you, but it has, and I have to deal with it. Birmingham Hospice helps you to come to terms with it and to cope with it as best you can. I’ve worked for the NHS since I was 17 but it’s opened my eyes to what is available for people.”</p>
<p>Cover photo is of Staff Nurse Lucy Witchell.</p>
<p><em>Photo credit: Dave Warren/Picture Team</em></p>
<hr />
<p>B31 Voices is run by volunteers and is committed to supporting communities across south west Birmingham and surrounding by keeping them informed and engaged. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/b31voices/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/B31Voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/b31voices.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bluesky</a>, <a href="https://mastodon.social/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mastodon</a>, <a href="https://www.threads.net/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Threads</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b31voices/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHOjwkmV8AEiarof7wEU0ug" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a>. Support us by donating at <a href="http://www.b31.org.uk/donate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.b31.org.uk/donate</a>. Send us local story ideas to <a href="mailto:hello@b31.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hello@b31.org.uk</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/five-years-as-one-hospice-over-a-century-of-care/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
<item>
<title>The Retros will be Puttin’ On The Ritz</title>
<link>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/the-retros-will-be-puttin-on-the-ritz/</link>
<comments>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/the-retros-will-be-puttin-on-the-ritz/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Marty Taylor]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 2026 16:21:45 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Arts]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Birmingham]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kings Heath]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[top]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[birmingham]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[commemorate]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Debut]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[fame]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[heath]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kings]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[legendary]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[live]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Retros]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[ritz]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rolling]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[special]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[stones]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[walk]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://b31.org.uk/?p=103365</guid>
<description><![CDATA[Kings Heath Walk of Fame are delighted to present on Saturday 19th of September top covers band The Retros who have performed before thousands at the Liverpool Arena. Hailing from Cirencester, The Retros will perform a great selection of hits from the 1960’s and 70’s through to the present day. Included in their set will […]]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Kings Heath Walk of Fame are delighted to present on Saturday 19th of September top covers band The Retros who have performed before thousands at the Liverpool Arena.</strong></p>
<p>Hailing from Cirencester, The Retros will perform a great selection of hits from the 1960’s and 70’s through to the present day.</p>
<p>Included in their set will be a special segment of Rolling Stones classic songs to help commemorate the anniversary of The Stones Birmingham debut that took place in September 1963 at Kings Heath’s old Ritz Ballroom.</p>
<p>Formed in London in 1962 by Brian Jones after he met up with Mick Jagger and Keith Richards who had been childhood friends, The Rolling Stones started out as a blues group taking their name from the title of a song by Muddy Waters.</p>
<p>For the whole of 1962 they played exclusively in the London area. But all that changed on 7th of June 1963 after they released their first single a cover of Chuck Berry’s “Come On”. Just a few months later on 14th of September 1963 they played one of their first ever gigs outside London and their first ever in Birmingham at the Ritz Ballroom. Joining them on the tiny stage were Bill Wyman and Charlie Watts.<br />
<a href="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SdHC4EnrSUksZ0s9.png"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" td-modal-image aligncenter wp-image-103371 size-full" src="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SdHC4EnrSUksZ0s9.png" alt="" width="580" height="385" srcset="https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SdHC4EnrSUksZ0s9.png 580w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SdHC4EnrSUksZ0s9-300x199.png 300w, https://b31.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SdHC4EnrSUksZ0s9-391x260.png 391w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px" /></a><br />
Later the same night they went on to perform at The Plaza in Old Hill another of the clubs owned by Irish couple Ma and Pa Regan. The next evening they had to return to London to play at The Great Pop Prom at the Royal Albert Hall and the rest is history!</p>
<p>Only half a mile from the site of the burnt down Ritz Ballroom, top covers band The Retros will bring their fantastic show to <a href="https://www.kingsheathsportsclub.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kings Heath Cricket and Sports Club</a> on Saturday 19 September to commemorate this historic anniversary with a special show.</p>
<p>As well as a special segment featuring some of The Stones greatest hits, they will also perform songs by other artists who appeared at the Ritz Ballroom including Wilson Pickett, The Kinks and The Beatles as well as hits by many more recent groups.</p>
<p>“Wow!!! What a night! Great songs, great music, just all round perfect” (Encore Review)</p>
<p>Bob Prew and Ken Whittaker, joint organisers of <a href="https://www.kingsheathwalkoffame.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">King’s Heath Walk Of Fame</a> said “Get ready to dance the night away to a group whose members have appeared in other groups on Top Of The Pops. As well as performing a segment of Rolling Stones songs they will also perform other great songs from the 1960’s to the present day.</p>
<p>“They will perform rock ‘n’ roll at its very best! This is bound to be a night to remember just like so many nights Ma and Pa Regan put on at the old Ritz Ballroom in the 1960’s ”</p>
<p>Purchase Tickets <a href="https://b31.org.uk/i-events/the-retros-will-be-puttin-on-the-ritz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a></p>
<hr />
<p>B31 Voices is run by volunteers and is committed to supporting communities across south west Birmingham and surrounding by keeping them informed and engaged. Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/b31voices/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/B31Voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/b31voices.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bluesky</a>, <a href="https://mastodon.social/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mastodon</a>, <a href="https://www.threads.net/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Threads</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/b31voices/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@b31voices" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TikTok</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHOjwkmV8AEiarof7wEU0ug" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube</a>. Support us by donating at <a href="http://www.b31.org.uk/donate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.b31.org.uk/donate</a>. Send us local story ideas to <a href="mailto:hello@b31.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hello@b31.org.uk</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
<wfw:commentRss>https://b31.org.uk/2026/09/the-retros-will-be-puttin-on-the-ritz/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
</item>
</channel>
</rss>