Tag: Erdington High Street

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: St Barnabas Community Hub – a space to connect on Erdington High Street

People gathering at St Barnabas Community Hub / Photograph supplied by St Barnabas

Words by Hema Chumber

Since reopening in summer 2023, the St Barnabas Community Hub has established itself as a regular meeting point for residents on Erdington High Street.

Located inside the St Barnabas Church Centre, the Hub offers a weekly programme of free activities aimed at improving wellbeing, reducing isolation, and encouraging social connection across different age groups.

The space was previously run as a café, but the operation became unsustainable following the COVID-19 pandemic.

In response, the building was repurposed into a flexible community hub.

St Barnabas Churc, viewed from the churchyard on Erdington High Street / Photgraph by Ed KIng

Since its relaunch, the number of users and activities has steadily increased, as the Hub runs weekly sessions targeted at various demographics.

St Barnabas Community Hub’s goal is to provide an inclusive space where local people can access support, meet others, and take part in low-pressure group activities.

Natalie, Community Hub Manager at St Barnabas, said: “I think it’s so important for the people in the community to feel like, and know, that they have a safe and inclusive space here.

“We’ve gotten to know so many people and groups in the area over the past years, and lots of these actively volunteer with us – we’re looking at hosting an event in June to celebrate those who do, with it being Volunteer Week in that month.”

She added: “We also do a lot of signposting, as it’s important for us to help people in the local area get access to support if they need it.”

A service user, who asked not to be named, described St Barnabas Community Hub as a big part of their weekly routine.

They told: “I don’t know what I’d do without having the Hub here. It has really helped me.”

A 200 year anniversary celebratory cake with St Barnabas logo / Photograph supplied by St Barnabas

On Monday mornings, Barny Babies provides a term-time stay-and-play group for parents, carers, and pre-school children.

Tuesdays and Thursdays host Community Coffee Mornings, which are open to anyone who wants to drop in for a free drink and conversation.

Wednesdays begin with the Wellbeing Café for the Over 50s, a session focused on promoting healthy habits and peer support among older adults.

That afternoon, secondary school students can also attend the Urban Devotion Birmingham youth café, which offers a supervised space with free snacks and drinks, during school term time.

Thursday mornings are reserved for fitness-based activities.

Inspiring Fitness Women Only Circuit Training starts the day with a group workout, followed by Chatty Chairs, a seated exercise session for those with reduced mobility.

On Fridays, the Welcome Space offers a drop-in session with food, games, and opportunities for informal socialising.

The programmes at the Community Hub are reviewed regularly, and adapted to suit community feedback, allowing the Hub to remain responsive to local needs and offer relevant support.

For more information on St Barnabas Community Hub, please visit their website at www.stbarnabaserdington.org.uk and follow their Facebook page @StBarnabasErdington.

To get in contact with a member of the team, please email [email protected] – or call the Community Hub reception on (0121) 306 4820.

Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.

If you are from a community group or an active volunteer anywhere in the Erdington constituency then we want to hear for you. Please email our Community Reporter Hema Chumber at: [email protected]

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FEATURE: Operation Fearless – introducing a dedicated High Street police team after over 140 arrests made in and around Erdington Town Centre

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Operation Fearless

Operation Fearless has made a significant impact on Erdington High Street since it launched in January this year, with 140 people arrested so far and the seizure of dangerous weapons and hard drugs from in and around Erdington Town Centre.

West Midlands Police have also now established a dedicated Erdington High Street police team, with a Sergeant leading six officers focused on crime and anti-social behaviour in the retail and shopping hub.

Giving Erdington Local readers the latest information on the special policing initiative, Detective Superintendent Jim Munro – the officer leading the Operation Fearless team – has a direct update for Erdington locals and residents.

Words by DSI Jim Munro / Pics supplied by Operation Fearless

Operation Fearless lead Detective – Detective Superintendent Jim Munro / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

“We’ve made a really big step in making Erdington High Street a safer place. Since January, we’ve arrested over 140 people. This is a huge number and shows that we’re really listening to what you’ve been telling us.

“You were worried, and rightly so, about feeling unsafe walking down the High Street. You told us about shops being targeted, about drugs causing problems, and about the fear of violence. We heard you loud and clear.

“We’ve also taken dangerous weapons off the streets of Erdington before they could do any harm, seizing a live firearm, a zombie knife and multiple other weapons in separate incidents.

“We’ve arrested dangerous individuals for a whole range of offences including – robbery, burglary, assault, shop theft and much more. Other successful arrests saw one man arrested for child sex offences, and another for domestic kidnap.

Officers talking to members of the public on Erdington High Street / Photograhp taken by Ed King

“This success isn’t just because of the police. It’s because of you, the people who live here in Erdington.

“You called us when you saw something suspicious, you shared information with us, and you trusted us to do our jobs. Without your help, without you being our eyes and ears on the ground, we couldn’t have achieved this. We’re so thankful for all your support.

“And the good news doesn’t stop there. We’re hearing from you that things are changing. You’re telling us you feel safer in the area and businesses are noticing a real difference too. That’s exactly the kind of change we wanted to see.

“But we know we can’t stop now. We need to keep this momentum going, keep pushing for a safer Erdington. That’s why we’re putting a dedicated High Street team in place.

DSI Munro, PCC Simon Foster, Paulette Hamilton MP talking to staff in Iceland on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

“At the end of March, I had the privilege of walking the High Street with MP Paulette Hamilton and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster. We discussed the progress and future plans for Op Fearless.

“We all agree that while we’ve made strides, there’s still more to be done. Regeneration takes time, and we’re committed to tackling crime and making Erdington a place where everyone feels safe and proud.

“I’m optimistic about the future, especially with the collaboration we’re building between the new High Street team, the council, BID, and our security partners.

Erdington Police Station on Sutton New Road / Photgraph by Ed King

“The new team, consisting of six officers and a Sergeant, will be a constant presence on the High Street. They’ll be walking the streets daily, engaging with residents, and ensuring a visible and reassuring presence. Their focus will be on building relationships and maintaining a safe environment for everyone.

“As the Fearless team prepares to move to its next location at the end of this month, please know that our commitment to Erdington remains strong.

“While the team will be physically moving, we’ll continue to provide support and resources to the new High Street team, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained efforts to reduce crime.

Police tape on Erdington High Street as officers conduct investigation / Photograph by Ed King

“We know how important it is for you to stay informed about what’s happening in your community. That’s why we’re changing things up a bit. We want to keep that line of communication open and strong. So, from now on, you’ll be hearing directly from the person leading the charge on the High Street.

“I’m delighted to announce that I’ll be handing over this column to Sergeant Gary Grove, who will be heading up the new High Street team. They’ll be your go to source for updates on the work being done in the area.

“I encourage you all to engage with Sergeant Grove and their team. Share your feedback, voice your concerns, and continue to be an active part of making Erdington better.

“Thank you for your continued support.”

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless

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Erdington drug dealer jailed for possession with intent to supply thousands of pounds worth of crack cocaine and heroin

Words by Ed King

(Left) Drugs seized by officers during search of Kenyjah James car and residential address, (right) Kenyjah James following arrest for possession with intent to supply / Pics supplied by West Midlands Police

An Erdington drug dealer has been jailed for possession with intent to supply Class A narcotics including crack cocaine and heroin, taking thousands of pounds of dangerous drugs off the streets.

The arrest and processing through the courts comes as the Operation Fearless policing initiative continues to clampdown on crime in Erdington Town Centre – working alongside the recently introduced Erdington High Street police team and local partners.

Appearing before Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday 10 April, Kenyjah James, aged 25, pleaded guilty to the charges against him and was sentenced to four years in prison – avoiding a longer term for a crime that could have seen him face life imprisonment, based on the amount of drugs and his role within the supply chain.

Officers on patrol on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Operation Fearless and High Street officers apprehended James after responding to reports of criminal damage and anti-social behaviour on Tuesday 25 February, after the police were alerted to a man damaging a car park gate.

Whilst attending the scene, officers detained James and searched his vehicle – discovering around 190 ‘wraps’ of both cocaine and heroin and two mobile phones, with potential links to a drug dealing operation.

Following a further search of his home address, police officers discovered yet more Class A and Class B narcotics and charged James with possession and intent to supply a controlled substance.

Sign outside Birmingham Crown Court / Photgraph by Ed King

After sentencing, a spokesperson from West Midlands Polcie confirmed: “A man [has] been jailed for drug offences after he was arrested by our Operation Fearless officers in Erdington.

“Kenyjah James, aged 25, was sentenced to four years in prison when appeared at Birmingham Crown Court last Thursday (10 April).”

They added: “He had pleaded guilty to two charges of possessing Class A drugs including crack cocaine and heroin, with intent to supply.

“The drugs were… confirmed as being approximately 190 wraps of cocaine and heroin, with an estimated value of around £2,000.”

Operation Fearless has been in action across Erdington Town Centre since January 2025, making over 140 arrests (at the time of writing) and stamping down on crime and anti-social behaviour in the once troubled retail district.

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

Handing over from the main Operation Fearless team, as they begin to deploy officers in other hot spots across the city, Erdington High Street has also welcomed a dedicated police team – including a Seargent and six uniformed officers that will focus on crime in and around the Town Centre.

The Erdington Business Improvement District (BID) is also “beefing up” their High Street security and leading a High Street Community Team of local partners and community groups, to further support the incoming High Street police team and retail hub.

A spokesperson from the Erdington BID told: “The extra policing we’ve seen this year, under Operation Fearless and now with the new High Street police team, has made a significant impact on the crime in Erdington Town Centre – but it needs our support to make it last.

Rainbow falls on Erdington Town Centre sign by Six Ways Island / Photograph by Ed King

“We will be beefing up our High Street security, who have a strong relationship with the retail community here and know many of the repeat offenders – and who can directly support both the Operation Fearless and new High Street police team through joint patrols and intelligence sharing.

“We will also be establishing a High Street Community Team, made up of local community groups and volunteers – to help with everything from supporting a series of family friendly events on the High Street, to litter picking and looking after the green spaces.”

They added: “Erdington High Street was once one of the busiest in the city, and whilst many businesses have moved online we still want a Town Centre that is a vibrant and family friendly place to shop and socialise.

“Following in the footsteps of Operation Fearless, the new dedicated High Street police team – supported by our Street Wardens and local community groups – gives us a chance to break the cycle of crime and make a real and lasting change in the heart of Erdington.”

To find out more about working with the Erdington Business Improvement District to support the High Street and Town Centre email: [email protected]

For more on Operation Fearless direct from West Midlands Police visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-fearless

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NEWS: Erdington High Street gets dedicated police team in a “sustained effort to reduce crime” alongside Operation Fearless

Words by Ed King

Rainbow reflection on Erdington Town Centre sign near Six Ways Island / Photograph taken by Ed King

Erdington Town Centre has been allocated its own dedicated High Street police team to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the once troubled retail hotspot.

Working alongside the Operation Fearless policing initiative, the Erdington High Street police team will bring six constables, led by Sergeant Gary Grove, to the Town Centre – creating “a high visibility presence on the High Street to tackle the issues that matter to residents, shoppers and traders”, according to a West Midlands Police spokesperson.

The officers will also work with the Erdington Business Improvement District (BID) Street Wardens, conducting joint patrols on the High Street and sharing intelligence about criminal activity and regular offenders in the area.

Officers on patrol on Erdington High Street as part of Operation Fearless / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police)

The team will also work alongside local partners including Birmingham City Council and Transport for West Midlands, to further tackle crime and anti-social behaviour and build on the work already being delivered by the responsible authorities.

The dedicated Erdington High Street police force, led by Sgt Grove, has been operational since 4 April, working in tandem with the Operation Fearless team to share information and continue the “sustained effort to reduce crime” in the retail hub.

Alongside the 140 arrests made by the Operation Fearless, Sgt Grove’s new High Street police team have made a further 17 arrests in the past few weeks – keeping the pressure on criminals who have operated in the area, including those involved in drug dealing and shoplifting.

Officers talking to members of the public on Erdington High Street / Photograhp taken by Ed King

Sergeant Gary Grove told: “It’s clear to see the difference [Operation] Fearless has made to Erdington, and we’re committed to building on that.

“Myself and my colleagues have experience working as part of the Erdington Impact Area team – and we’re working hard to build on existing relationships around the area.”

Underlining the importance of working with Erdington locals, the business community, and the wider general public visiting the area, Sgt Grove added: “If you’re out and about in Erdington or have any concerns you’d like to discuss, please come and say hello to us.”

The Erdington BID is also currently establishing a High Street Community Support Team to work alongside Sgt Grove and his team – made up of local volunteers and community groups and addressing non-response issues.

The Erdington BID High Street Community Support Team will be investing more into High Street security, and offering help with activities including consumer and visitor advice, litter picking, maintaining the High Street’s green spaces, and helping busy businesses report lower level crimes.

A spokesperson for the Erdington BID, who act as the link between the local police and retail community, told: “Erdington High Street needs a constant, uniformed, public facing police presence – with the power to arrest criminals and process them to the courts – and having a dedicated High Street police team will be a huge support to the local business community.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sergeant Grove and his team to the area and offer our full support.”

They added: “Operation Fearless, and now Sgt Grove and his High Street police team, have given Erdington a real chance to properly challenge the criminal activity in Erdington Town Centre – but we can all help.

“If we want to keep the crime away, and to further deter those repeat offenders who have got away with too much for too long, it should be a team effort. If you live or work in Erdington, or just want to help make a difference to our Town Centre, then please get in touch about joining [the Erdington BID] High Street Community Support Team.”

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Operation Fearless

Operation Fearless was launched in January 2025, bringing a dedicated team of 20 officers to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour into Erdington Town Centre.

The initiative was supported by £880,000 from the Proceeds of Crime Fund, as allocated by the Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster – who has been a regular visitor to Erdington Town Centre, meeting with both businesses and the general public on the High Street.

Led by Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, the Operation Fearless team have made over 140 arrests [at the time of writing] and seized an array of contraband off the Erdington streets – including an arsenal of offensive weapons, and illegal drugs worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Operation Fearless lead Detective – Detective Superintendent Jim Munro / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

As the Operation Fearless team start to hand over to Sgt Grove and the High Street police team, alongside the pre-existing Neighbourhood Police Team (NPT) that covers Erdington Town Centre, a WMP spokesperson confirmed: “The [Operation] Fearless team will continue to provide support and resources to the new High Street team, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained effort to reduce crime.”

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro added: “The new dedicated High Street team will be a constant presence in the area, and although Fearless is expanding to a new location – our Fearless officers will be using their impressive local and operational knowledge to support them.”

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OPINION: A message from Paulette Hamilton, MP for Erdington

Words by Paulette Hamilton MP

Paulette Hamilton MP with police on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

Three years ago, when I was first elected, I made a promise, to tackle the crime and antisocial behaviour plaguing Erdington High Street.

Today, I’m proud to report that Operation Fearless, launched in January with £880,000 in funding from the Proceeds of Crime Fund, is delivering incredible results.

At my latest High Street meeting, Inspector Shameem Ahmed provided a detailed update on multiple arrests and seizures – proof that our community’s persistence is paying off.

Traders who once lived in fear now speak of real transformation, something I saw firsthand during my walkabout with Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster and DS Jim Munro last week.

Paulette Hamilton MP with Inspector Shameem Ahmed at a meeting about crime on Erdington High Street, held at St Barnabas Church / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

But while we celebrate progress, we cannot ignore the recent knife attack in Kingstanding. My heart goes out to the victim, and I pray they make a speedy recovery.

As someone who has recently spoken in Parliament about rising knife crime and as an aunt whose own family has felt its devastating pain, I’m calling for action. That means tougher measures and longer-term, sustainable funding for initiatives like our Violence Reduction Partnership.

Beyond crime, as Chair of the Hospices APPG, I’m also fighting for dignity in dying. Places like John Taylor Hospice in Erdington provide incredible care, yet rely too heavily on charity. They deserve long-term funding, and I’m determined to keep pushing to make that happen.

Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott are stronger when we stand together. We’ve already shown what we can achieve, so let’s keep pushing forward.

For more on Paulette Hamilton MP for Erdington visit www.paulettehamilton.org

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NEWS: Evacuated Perry Common residents allowed home after “suspicious items” found during raid on Hastings Road

Words by Ed King

Police car outside residential address on Hastings Road, Perry Common / Pic by Ed King

Perry Common residents have been allowed back home after being evacuated early today, following the discovery of “suspicious items” at a residential address on Hastings Road – just off Witton Lodge Road.

At around 9am on Thursday 20 March, locals living on and around Witton Lodge Road were asked by police to quickly vacate their homes, to make way for a bomb disposal unit which had been brought in to investigate findings of an early morning raid.

Concerns were raised by the police after a “pre-planned warrant” was executed in the early hours and officers found objects that may have been linked to explosive devices.

After cordoning off Witton Lodge Road, from Perry Common Community Hall up to College Road, police at the scene evacuated all residents – with some seeking refuge at Perry Common Hall, whilst others rested at the  popular Jacy’s Café on ‘the ring’ or waited on the central grassy area.

Police searching residential address on Hastings Road, Perry Common / Pic by Ed King

After a few hours, at around 11:15am, the police tape was finally lifted and residents were allowed back to their homes – with some having had to leave so quickly they were still in dressing gowns and pyjamas.

Residents with mobility issue were also asked to move, with police at the scene helping those that needed it to reach a safe place beyond the cordoned off area.

One local resident told Erdington Local: “The police knocked on our door and at first just wanted us to stay indoors, but then they came back not long afterwards and said we had to leave.

“It was still morning, and I hadn’t got dressed yet – it’s just a good thing it’s a nice {sunny] day.”

Police officers remained at the Hastings Road address, after evacuated residents were allowed back to their homes.

And whilst the officers at the scene were able to confirm there was no threat to public safety, the uncertainly about what caused the road closure and mass evacuation remained a mystery for most of those affected – with some residents reporting the army had been drafted in and others stating an old WWII bomb had been discovered.

Police removing bags of items seized from residential address on Hastings Road, Perry Common / Pic by Ed King

Erdington Local saw officers from both the local police teams and specialist units oustide and searching an address at Hastings Road – on the corner of Witton Lodge Road and opposite Story Wood Primary School – and removing several bags of items from the residential address and loading them into the back of unmarked police vehicles.

The neighbour of the Hastings Road address that was the focus of police activity, told Erdington Local: “I don’t know what happened, they just knocked on my door this morning at around 9am and told me I had to leave.

“I wasn’t given any information… [all the residents] were just told we had to leave [our homes].”

She added: “I’m allowed back in now, but they’re still here [and searching the address]. And I still don’t know what’s been going on next door.”

Police outside residential address on Hastings Road, Perry Common / Pic by Ed King

A spokesperson for West Midlands Police confirmed: “A cordon was put in place this morning after suspicious items were discovered during a pre-planned warrant at an address on Hastings Road.

“This cordon has now been lifted after the Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team confirmed there was no risk to the wider public.”

They added: “Nearby residents who were evacuated as a precaution have now returned to their homes, and we thank them for their patience.”

Police search a residential address on Hastings Road in Perry Common following mass evacuation

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NEWS: Residents evacuated on Witton Lodge Road amidst reports of bomb squad investigation

Police blocking off entrance to Witton Lodge Road by Perry Common Hall / Pic by Ed King

Words by Ed King

Residents on Witton Lodge Road were evacuated from their homes this morning amidst reports of the army and bomb investigation personnel attending the scene – with the area from Perry Common Hall to College Road cordoned off.

Police cars could be seen blocking the entrance to Witton Lodge Road by Perry Common Hall, with a bomb disposal unit seen further behind the police tape with several officers investigating.

Local residents at the scene told Erdington Local that police had knocked on their doors earlier this morning telling them to stay in their houses, before returning some minutes later to ask they fully evacuate the area.

Police blocking off entrance to Witton Lodge Road by Perry Common Hall / Pic by Ed King

Concerned locals then gathered around the grassy roundabout – colloquially known as The Ring – as well as local cafes and shops. Some residents were reportedly given refuge at Perry Common Hall as police and investigating officials conducted a search of a residential address.

“I had a knock on the door this morning,” told a resident from Witton Lodge Road, “with the police telling me to stay inside – then after a while they came back and told us to leave. I hope my cats are OK.”

Another family were also turned out of their house without knowing why, with one member still in their dressing gown as they stood behind the police cordon.

“I was heading to work at about 8:45am and I saw a few police,” confirmed one woman. “Then by the time I’d got back the whole road [from The Rin to College Road] had been asked to leave their houses.

Jacy’s Cafe on Witton Lodge Road / Pic by Ed King

Jacy’s Café on Witton Lodge Road housed several residents as they waited to be allowed back home, with many taking the time to grab a breakfast and check out if friends and neighbours were OK. Staff at the café, a popular local eatery, had not been told much information by local law enforcement but were keeping concerned residents safe and well fed.

Whilst Erdington Local were at the scene, at around 11:15am, police started taking down the blue and white tape and letting residents back into their homes – with officers at the scene stating there was no threat to public safety.

Police removing cordon and letting residents on Witton Lodge Road return home / Pic by Ed King

A spokesperson from West Midlands Polcie confirmed to Erdington Local: “We’re currently dealing with an incident at Witton Lodge Road. We will provide more details as soon as we can.”

Erdington Local has asked West Midlands Polcie for any further information they can release.

At the time of writing, all police cordons had been lifted on Witton Lodge Road and residents had returned to their homes

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OPINION: A message from Paulette Hamilton, MP for Erdington

Words by Paulette Hamilton MP

Paulette Hamilton MP by the Houses of Parliament / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

The first duty of any government is to keep its citizens safe. That’s why I’m proud this Labour Government is increasing defence investment 2.5% of GDP by 2027, the biggest sustained boost since the Cold War.

This commitment strengthens national security and ensures we have the capabilities to protect the UK and our allies.

But security isn’t just about national defence, it’s about keeping our communities safe too. After 14 years of Conservative neglect, our armed forces are stretched thin, and crime and anti-social behaviour are rising. Undoing the damage of the past will take time, but Labour is committed to rebuilding Britain and delivering for our communities.

Locally, I took a firm stand against an HMO application on Mason Road, leading a campaign backed by 386 residents. Birmingham City Council rejected the application, sending a clear message that enough is enough.

HMOs bring increased crime, put pressure on local services, and undermine initiatives like Operation Fearless, which aims to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

I joined West Midlands Police for an all-out day on Erdington High Street. With a new Public Spaces Protection Order in place and Operation Fearless making an impact, traders and shoppers are seeing a real difference.

I also held a coffee morning in Kingstanding, where residents raised crime and anti-social behaviour as top concerns. I’ll keep working with the police and local partners to tackle these issues.

From community campaigns to coffee mornings, I will keep fighting for a safer Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott.

For more on Paulette Hamilton MP for Erdington visit www.paulettehamilton.org

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DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors – as identified against each article – and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent, or the view or positions of Erdington Local.

If you wish to contact Erdington Local about any comments or contributions made, please email: [email protected]

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NEWS: Erdington man jailed for over five years after pleading guilty to Chudleigh Rd shooting

Words by Ed King

Mugshot of Desie Dalton-Byrne after being arrested following shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

An Erdington man has been jailed for over five years after pleading guilty to charges related to a shooting on Chudleigh Road in July 2024.

Desie Dalton-Byrne, who lives on Chudleigh Road, received his sentence at Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday 6 March – with West Midlands Police now releasing more details of the case.

Dalton-Byrne pleaded guilty to charges including possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, possession of a firearm, and possession of ammunition for a firearm without a certificate.

Mugshot of Desie Dalton-Byrne after being arrested following shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

The most serious of the charges faced by Dalton-Byrne, possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, could have seen him sentenced to a decade behind bars for that crime alone.

The other charges could also have carried jail time of between 5-10 years each – as directed by the sentencing guidelines from the Crown Prosecution Service.

Firearm found on Low Wood Road during investigation of shooting on Chudleigh Road / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

The 21-year-old was arrested in September 2024 after police scoured CCTV from across the area and talked to witness.

Chudleigh Road sits between Reservoir Road and Marsh Lane – two busy thoroughfares connecting Erdington Town Centre to Stockland Green – with the firearm eventually retrieved from a garden on neighbouring Low Wood Road.

From the evidence gathered by investigating officers, Dalton-Byrne can be seen on CCTV brandishing a weapon – with reports stating shots were fired at a group of people on Chudleigh Road at around 6:30pm.

Dressed in what appears to be a black tracksuit with white trims, he can be seen leaving the driver’s side of a parked vehicle, before waving the gun above his head, then aiming it down the street whilst standing in the middle of the road.

Entrance to Chudleigh Road from Reservoir Road / Image taken from Google Maps

No one was injured during the shooting, and as Dalton-Byrne pleaded guilty to the charges he was not asked to explain his actions in court. After sentencing, a spokesperson from West Midland Police stated: “the motive of the shooting has never been revealed.”

Detective Inspector Matt Marston, from WMP’s Major Crime Unit, added: “Firearms and drugs play a significant role in criminality on our streets. It persistently erodes communities, ruining lives and blighting communities.

“As a result of this discovery, we’ve taken a deadly weapon off the streets, and an individual with direct access to it is behind bars.”

He added: “We hope this sentence will offer a deterrent to other criminals who act in this way.”

CCTV footage of gunman brandishing firearm on Chudleigh Road

Erdington has had significant investment from West Midlands Police over recent months, with two policing initiatives being launched in the constituency – Operation Skybridge in October 2024, and Operation Fearless in January 2025.

Operation Fearless, which is focusing activities on and around Erdington High Street, has seen a team of 20 specially recruited officers tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in the Town Centre.

Since its launch in January 2025, Operation Fearless has seen 75 arrests for crimes from shoplifting and possession of an offence weapon, to assault and possession with intent to supply. The initiative has also seized hundreds of thousands of pounds in illegal drugs and contraband.

Detective Superintendent Jim Munro on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

In an exclusive update to Erdington Local, Detective Superintendent and Operation Fearless Lead Jim Munro told: “Since Operation Fearless launched on 7 January, we’ve now made 75 arrests and carried out 120 stop and searches. Of those 75 arrests, 44 people have already been charged and are now going through the courts.”

“Many of you have noticed a real improvement on the High Street, with comments like “What a difference Operation Fearless has made! Not only is it looking cleaner, but people seem a lot happier – a definite buzz of positivity in the air!” This kind of feedback, and the positive interactions our officers have received while out on patrol, confirms we’re on the right track.”

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police

He added: “We still have a lot of work to do and we’re not slowing down. In fact, we’re working even harder. We’re teaming up with great partners and we’re always looking for ways to do better.

“We’re listening to you and working hard to make things better for the residents of Erdington. We’re all in this together, and we’ll keep you updated on what we’re doing.”

For details on how to report a crime in your area call West Midlands Polcie on 101, or visit: www.westmidlands.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously via the independent charity, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

In case of an emergency, please dial 999.

 

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NEWS: The Swan pub raises over five thousand pounds to support John Taylor Hospice

Words by Ed King

The Swan on Erdington High Street / Image supplied by Stonegate Group

The Swan pub recently raised over five thousand pounds to help support John Taylor Hospice in Erdington.

The popular local boozer organised a series of fundraising events to raise money for Birmingham Hospice, the charity which manages end of life and palliative care facilities in both Erdington and Selly Oak.

Events including hamper raffles, toy drives, clothes collections, and book sales, saw The Swan raise a total £5,140 from generous regulars and local residents.

Fundraising sign / Image supplied by the Stonegate Group

Throughout January, staff at The Swan also gave up alcohol in bid to raise even more funds for the hospice charity, with bar top collection buckets getting a steady stream of donations.

Staff at The Swan thank the generosity of the Erdington community, with many local residents and pub regulars having personal connections to John Taylor Hospice.

Pub operator Wayne Hinton told: “To see the community come together to support such an important charity was a heartwarming and prime example of what makes the Erdington community so brilliant.

“The hospice is very close to all of us in the area and I’d like to personally thank every single person who has been generous enough to give money to a fantastic cause.”

He added: “A huge thanks must also go to our own staff who have not been afraid to get stuck in, raising a huge £5,140, and we’re not going to stop there! We have plenty more fundraising efforts to come in the coming months so watch this space!”

The Swan, located at 65 Erdington High Street, is a longstanding and popular community pub, operated as part of the Stonegate owned Craft Union Pub Company.

Drinks on draught / Image supplied by the Stonegate Group

Recent fundraising efforts are part Craft Union’s ‘Make it a Million’ campaign, which started in 2024 and aimed to raise £1 million for local causes through its network of over 600 pubs across the year.

At the time of writing the national portfolio of pubs and licenced had raised approximately £972,660 during the twelve month campaign, with staff at Stonegate’s support team contributing a further £96,813.

For more on The Swan visit www.craftunionpubs.com/swan-erdington

For more on Birmingham Hospice visit www.birminghamhospice.org.uk