Coffee with a Cause: St Giles Hospice Opens Café 83 at Barton Marina

A new café is preparing to welcome visitors to Barton Marina this November — and every cup of coffee will help support a very special cause.

There is something rather lovely about enjoying a coffee beside the water, watching the boats drift past and taking a little time out from the bustle of everyday life.

From Thursday 5 November 2026, visitors to Barton Marina will have another reason to stop and stay awhile, as St Giles Hospice opens Café 83, its very first café venture.

But this isn’t simply another place to enjoy breakfast, lunch or a slice of cake. Café 83 has a much bigger purpose: helping to generate vital income to support the hospice’s care for local people and their loved ones.

A Name with a Special Meaning

The name Café 83 is a tribute to 1983, the year St Giles Hospice was founded.

More than four decades later, the hospice continues to provide care and support to people across Staffordshire, North Birmingham and surrounding communities.

The new café represents an exciting step in the charity’s efforts to develop sustainable ways of funding that work.

With increasing demand for hospice services, ventures such as Café 83 offer people another simple, enjoyable way to make a difference.

Coffee, Cake and a Waterside View

Situated beside the Mooring and Boat Sales building at Barton Marina, Café 83 will enjoy a quieter position overlooking the moored canal boats.

With seating for 40 people, the café promises a welcoming place for residents, walkers, boaters, families and visitors exploring the marina.

The menu will include breakfast and lunchtime favourites such as bacon and sausage sandwiches, toast, teacakes, jacket potatoes, sandwiches, baguettes and sausage rolls.

There will also be cakes, hot and cold drinks, a children’s menu and an all-day selection, with bar snacks available during the evening.

And there’s good news for dog owners too: four-legged visitors will be welcome, with water and treats provided.

More Than Just a Café

St Giles hopes Café 83 will become a popular gathering place for the local community.

As well as everyday visits, the venue will be available to hire for private celebrations, including birthdays and baby showers.

The venture also marks an important development in the hospice’s fundraising activities, complementing its network of charity shops throughout the region.

Every purchase will help contribute towards the charity’s work supporting people living with terminal illnesses and their loved ones.

Opening Day — And a Free Coffee!

Café 83 officially opens on Thursday 5 November 2026 at 10am, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the occasion.

And there’s an extra little treat for early visitors!

The first 50 customers through the door on opening day will receive a free coffee.

It’s a lovely way to celebrate the beginning of what promises to be an exciting new chapter for St Giles Hospice.

A Café Worth Supporting

Whether you’re taking a stroll around Barton Marina, meeting friends for lunch or simply fancy a peaceful coffee beside the boats, Café 83 offers a wonderful reason to visit.

And knowing that your visit is helping support local hospice care makes that coffee taste just a little sweeter.

We wish everyone at St Giles Hospice and Café 83 every success with their new venture.

Visiting Café 83

Location: Barton Marina, Barton-under-Needwood, Staffordshire

Opening: Thursday 5 November 2026, from 10am

Regular opening: Seven days a week — individual daily hours to be confirmed

Dog-friendly: Yes

Website: https://cafe83.co.uk

Further information: https://www.stgileshospice.com/news/cafe-83-barton-marina/

What’s On in My Town — celebrating local businesses, community initiatives and the people making a difference.

Marks & Spencer launches recruitment drive for new Lichfield distribution centre

Major investment expected to bring around 600 jobs to the area as new automated facility prepares for 2027 opening.

Marks & Spencer has begun recruiting staff for its major new distribution centre in Lichfield, marking another important step in the retailer’s investment in the area.

The new 437,000 sq ft automated facility will support M&S’s fashion operations, with approximately 600 jobs expected to be created when the centre becomes fully operational in 2027.

More than 70 vacancies are already being advertised, offering opportunities for local people to become part of the new operation ahead of its opening.

The development represents a significant boost for Lichfield’s local economy, bringing employment opportunities and further investment to the area.

Alongside the distribution centre, Marks & Spencer is also developing a new foodhall in Lichfield, which is expected to create approximately 70 additional jobs.

With recruitment now underway, the project is moving closer to becoming a major new employer in the district.

Looking for a new opportunity? Anyone interested in working for Marks & Spencer can explore current vacancies through the company’s official careers website.

What’s On in My Town – Bringing you the latest business and community news from Lichfield and the surrounding area.

St Giles Hospice Fundraiser Represents West Midlands at Pride of Britain Awards

A remarkable fundraiser who dribbled a football more than 2,000 miles from Morocco to the Midlands has represented the West Midlands at the prestigious Pride of Britain Awards.

Football coach James Lewis attended the national ceremony in London after being named the region’s Fundraiser of the Year.

His extraordinary fundraising achievements have helped raise more than £129,000 for St Giles Hospice, making him the charity’s biggest individual fundraiser.

An incredible journey for St Giles

James completed an 86-day challenge, travelling from Morocco to the Midlands while dribbling a football.

The journey was undertaken in memory of his father, who received care from St Giles Hospice when James was just 11 years old.

The challenge attracted considerable attention and support, helping James raise substantial funds for the hospice.

His fundraising page has now reached £75,680 for the challenge alone, while his lifetime fundraising total has exceeded £129,000.

The achievement earned him the West Midlands Fundraiser of the Year title in September and a place among 17 finalists competing for the national award.

Representing the region in London

James attended the Pride of Britain Awards ceremony at Grosvenor House in London, accompanied by St Giles Hospice events manager Sam Colclough.

Although the overall Fundraiser of the Year award went to 85-year-old Barry Walden from Hull, James’s selection among the national finalists was a significant recognition of his dedication.

Barry received the national honour in recognition of 65 years spent raising money for charities through his singing.

For James, the evening provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of fundraisers from across the country.

A proud moment for St Giles Hospice

St Giles Hospice Chief Executive Elinor Eustace welcomed James’s achievement and the recognition it brought to the charity.

His fundraising has made a substantial contribution to the hospice, which provides specialist care and support to people and families facing serious illness.

The challenge has also inspired young people, with James sharing his experiences in schools.

His determination, commitment and willingness to undertake such an extraordinary journey have made him an outstanding ambassador for the charity.

Pride of Britain television broadcast

The Pride of Britain Awards ceremony will be shown on ITV1 and ITVX on Thursday 22 October 2026 at 8pm.

For supporters of St Giles Hospice, it will be another opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of a fundraiser whose efforts have made such a difference.

James may not have taken home the overall national award, but his journey from Morocco to the Midlands has already secured something equally important: lasting support and recognition for a charity close to his heart.

Lichfield Karting Star Finlay Lines Secures International Success in Belgium

A talented young racing driver from Lichfield is celebrating a remarkable achievement after finishing runner-up in the 2026 BNL Karting Series.

Finlay Lines completed his championship campaign in style at Karting Genk in Belgium, taking overall victory during the final weekend and securing second place in the championship standings.

The result means the young driver finishes the season as BNL Junior Max vice-champion.

A successful end to the championship

Finlay arrived at the final round holding second place in the Junior Max standings, with the championship still to be decided.

Facing competition from international drivers, he produced an impressive performance to secure the overall weekend victory.

Although the championship title remained out of reach, finishing as vice-champion represents a significant achievement in a competitive international series.

The result is also an important milestone in his developing motorsport career.

Representing Team UK in Portugal

Finlay’s performance has earned him a place at the 2026 Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals in Portimão, Portugal.

He will represent Team UK at the international event in November, competing against talented karting drivers from around the world.

The opportunity represents another important step for the Lichfield racer, whose achievements are attracting attention beyond the local motorsport scene.

A proud achievement for Lichfield

Karting provides an important pathway into competitive motorsport, requiring considerable skill, determination and commitment.

Finlay’s latest success demonstrates the opportunities available to talented young drivers willing to compete at an international level.

With a championship runner-up finish secured and another major competition approaching, the young Lichfield driver has plenty to look forward to.

His next challenge will be representing Team UK in Portugal as he continues his motorsport journey.

Petrol Station Approved at Former Canwell Caravan Site

Plans Approved for New Petrol Station at Former Canwell Caravan Sales Site

Plans to transform a former caravan sales site at Canwell into a petrol station have been approved by Lichfield District Council despite objections from nearby residents.

The development will occupy the former Canwell Caravans Ltd site on London Road.

The approved proposals include a petrol filling station, car wash facilities and drive-through jet wash bays.

A change of use for the site

According to documents submitted with the application, the land previously operated as a petrol station before being converted to caravan sales.

The new development will use existing access arrangements from London Road.

However, the proposals attracted objections from residents concerned about the potential impact on the surrounding area.

Concerns over traffic and lighting

Objectors questioned whether the proposed development would generate significantly more traffic than the former caravan showroom.

Concerns were also raised about external lighting, the size of the proposed structures and the possible effects of additional activity on nearby homes.

One issue considered during the planning process was the site’s location within the Green Belt.

Council considers impact

Planning officers acknowledged that the proposed petrol station would represent a more intensive use of the land.

They also recognised that additional lighting, vehicle movements and new structures would have some effect on the site’s appearance.

However, officers concluded that the impact would be limited by the site’s existing developed character and the fact that the proposals remained within previously developed land.

The application was therefore approved.

Proposed opening hours

The application documents indicate that the petrol station would operate between 6am and midnight.

The jet wash facilities would operate between 8am and 8pm.

No confirmed construction timetable or opening date has been established from the published report.

Residents wishing to examine the approved proposals can access the planning documents through Lichfield District Council.

Lichfield City Centre Bucks National Trend as Shop Vacancies Fall by More Than a Third

Lichfield city centre is showing encouraging signs of resilience, with newly publicised figures revealing that the number of empty retail premises has fallen by more than a third since 2021.

Figures released by Lichfield District Council show that just 16 of the city’s 311 retail premises were vacant in June 2025, compared with 25 in April 2021.

That represents a vacancy rate of approximately 5%, significantly below the national high street average of 13.5% quoted by the council.

The findings offer encouraging news for local traders at a time when many British town and city centres continue to face challenges from changing shopping habits and competition from online retailers.

Investment in Lichfield’s future

Lichfield District Council leader Councillor Doug Pullen has welcomed the figures, pointing to investment in the city centre and improvements to public spaces as important parts of the council’s approach.

The authority believes its ongoing regeneration programme is helping make Lichfield an attractive destination for businesses, residents and visitors.

The planned Everyman cinema development is also expected to strengthen the city’s leisure and entertainment offering.

By providing additional reasons for people to visit the centre, the council hopes to support existing retailers, restaurants and hospitality businesses.

Supporting local businesses

Independent shops, established retailers, cafés and restaurants all contribute to Lichfield’s distinctive character.

The vacancy figures provide a positive indication of the city’s retail position, although they represent a snapshot from June 2025 rather than a current count of occupied premises.

The council has also indicated that its regeneration ambitions extend beyond Lichfield, with £1.2 million earmarked for improvements in Burntwood.

For Lichfield’s businesses, the latest report offers an encouraging reminder of the importance of a thriving and attractive city centre.

Image – Lichfield Live

Plans Submitted for 300 More Homes at Arkall Farm

Plans have been submitted that could see an additional 300 homes built at the Arkall Farm development on the border between Lichfield and Tamworth.

The latest planning application proposes increasing the total number of homes permitted on the site from 1,000 to 1,300.

The development, situated north of Ashby Road, has been progressing since 2021, with approximately 315 properties expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

According to the planning documents, the proposed increase would be achieved through changes to the existing development layout rather than extending the approved site boundaries.

Part of the land originally reserved for a new primary school would instead be used for housing.

The applicant states that the local education authority has confirmed the full area previously allocated for the school is no longer required.

The proposals also include increasing housing density within part of a later development phase.

The application comes as Lichfield District continues to face pressure to deliver additional housing.

Planning documents submitted in support of the scheme argue that the additional properties would contribute towards meeting the district’s housing requirements.

However, the proposals remain subject to the planning process, and submission of an application does not mean permission has been granted.

Residents wishing to examine the proposals can access the relevant documents through Lichfield District Council’s planning system.

Image from Lichfield Live

Lichfield Santa Sleigh Fundraiser Opens Applications to Local Charities

Local charities and community organisations are being invited to take part in one of Lichfield’s much-loved Christmas traditions as preparations begin for the annual Santa Sleigh fundraiser.

Organised by Lichfield Round Table, the popular festive initiative sees Father Christmas travel through local streets during December, bringing seasonal cheer to families while raising money for worthwhile causes.

Each evening, representatives from participating charities and community groups accompany Santa’s sleigh, helping collect donations and promote the work of local organisations.

Applications to participate open today, Friday 16 October 2026.

The Santa Sleigh has become a familiar part of Christmas in Lichfield, combining festive entertainment with practical support for the local community.

For participating organisations, the initiative provides an opportunity to raise funds, meet residents and increase awareness of their work.

The annual event also depends on volunteers who give their time throughout the Christmas period.

Local charities, voluntary organisations and not-for-profit groups interested in participating are encouraged to follow Lichfield Round Table’s announcements.

Further details about the application process will be published through the organisation’s Facebook page.

Photograph Courtesy of Lichfield Live

World Singing Day 2026

World Singing Day 2026: Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield and Tamworth Raise Their Voices!

Saturday 17 October 2026

Music has a wonderful ability to bring people together, lift spirits and create lasting memories. This Saturday, 17 October, communities around the world will celebrate World Singing Day 2026, and there’s plenty of musical entertainment to enjoy across Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield and Tamworth.

From traditional male voice choirs and community singing to pop classics and spectacular live performances, there’s something for almost every musical taste.

What is World Singing Day?

World Singing Day is an annual global celebration of singing, bringing people together through the simple pleasure of making music.

The occasion encourages everyone to participate, regardless of age, background or musical ability.

You don’t need to be a professional singer, belong to a choir or even consider yourself particularly musical. World Singing Day is about enjoying music, sharing experiences and celebrating the connections that singing creates.

And across our three local areas, Saturday promises to be a particularly musical occasion.

🎵 Sutton Coldfield: Birmingham Male Voice Choir Autumn Concert

St Columba’s Church, Banners Gate Road, Sutton Coldfield

Saturday 17 October | 7pm–8.30pm

One of the region’s established male voice choirs will be performing in Sutton Coldfield on Saturday evening.

Birmingham Male Voice Choir brings together singers who share a love of music, friendship and performing.

The choir’s repertoire includes traditional favourites, popular songs, show tunes and uplifting arrangements performed in four-part harmony.

Its Autumn Concert at St Columba’s promises an enjoyable evening for anyone who appreciates the distinctive sound of male voice choral singing.

Further information: Birmingham Male Voice Choir’s official website.

🎵 Tamworth: Everybody Sings! Choir and City of Lichfield Concert Band

The Coton Centre, Comberford Road, Tamworth

Saturday 17 October | 7.30pm–9.30pm

Tickets: Adults £12.50 | Children £5

A wonderful example of community music-making takes place in Tamworth when Everybody Sings! Choir joins forces with the City of Lichfield Concert Band.

The concert will feature a varied programme of popular music, combining the voices of a welcoming community choir with the instrumental talents of an award-winning concert band.

Everybody Sings! embraces a simple philosophy: singing is for everyone, whether you believe you can sing or not.

Meanwhile, the City of Lichfield Concert Band is a 50-piece community ensemble with an impressive record of performances across Staffordshire and the West Midlands.

Together, they promise an entertaining evening celebrating the enjoyment of making music.

Booking: Citizen Ticket.

🎵 Tamworth: Tamworth Young Musicians 2026

St Editha’s Church, Tamworth

Saturday 17 October | 7pm

Young musical talent will also take centre stage in Tamworth this Saturday.

Following the success of its 2025 event, Tamworth Young Musicians returns for 2026, showcasing musical performances by talented children and young people.

The event provides another opportunity to celebrate local music-making while supporting the next generation of performers.

Tickets are advertised from £3.

🎵 Lichfield: Tunde of Lighthouse Family at Lichfield Cathedral

Lichfield Cathedral

Saturday 17 October | Performance advertised from 7.45pm

The magnificent surroundings of Lichfield Cathedral will welcome Tunde Baiyewu, the unmistakable voice of Lighthouse Family.

Known for the group’s much-loved hits, including Lifted, Ocean Drive and High, Tunde brings his distinctive soulful vocals to one of Staffordshire’s most spectacular venues.

Performing with a full band, this promises to be a memorable evening for fans of soulful pop music.

Booking: Eventim and authorised ticket outlets.

🎵 Lichfield: 80’s Mania at the Garrick

Lichfield Garrick Theatre

Saturday 17 October | 7.30pm

Tickets: £34

For those who prefer their singing accompanied by a little dancing and nostalgia, 80’s Mania arrives at the Lichfield Garrick.

This energetic musical spectacular celebrates some of the biggest hits of the 1980s, featuring tributes to artists including Duran Duran, Madonna, Wham!, Culture Club, Kim Wilde and Bananarama.

With a live band, dancers and more than 35 chart-topping hits, audiences can look forward to an evening packed with familiar favourites.

🎤 Why Not Join a Choir?

World Singing Day isn’t just about watching other people perform.

It’s also the perfect opportunity to consider joining a local choir or singing group.

Community choirs offer opportunities to meet new people, develop musical confidence and enjoy performing together.

Whether your musical tastes lean towards classical, musical theatre, gospel or contemporary pop, there are singing groups catering for a wide variety of interests and abilities.

And remember, you don’t necessarily need any previous singing experience to get involved.

Let the Music Bring Us Together!

Whether you’re attending a concert, singing along to your favourite songs at home or considering joining a choir for the first time, World Singing Day is an opportunity to celebrate something that connects us all.

So this Saturday, why not turn up the music, sing your favourite song and join people around the world in celebrating the joy of singing?

Happy World Singing Day from What’s On In Sutton Coldfield, incorporating What’s On In Lichfield and What’s On In Tamworth!

Please note: The concerts featured are taking place on World Singing Day but are not necessarily officially affiliated with the international celebration. Event information and ticket availability may change.

Category: Lichfield