Guess what’s making its long-awaited return to thrill and delight all in one night?
That’s right, the beloved Witton Lodge Community Quiz – held at Perry Common Hall on Friday 3 October, as organised by Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA).
So, dust off thinking caps and refill your lucky pens for some quizzical fun with friends, family and neighbours.
After an absence of more than three years our popular brainteasing bonanza is back bigger and better than ever.
Running from 7pm to 8.30pm, this is your chance to enjoy a laugh-out-loud evening for young and old alike. You can expect rounds packed with fun twists and cheeky surprises.
So why not come and pit your wits against some of our community’s very own Stephen Fry’s and Carol Vorderman’s.
Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph by Ed King
The Witton Lodge Community Quiz is £2 per person with payment on the door. Teams of up to six people are allowed with children aged under 10 admitted free.
You can’t afford to miss the quiz that’s more than just a night of questions and answers, it’s a night of connection, laughter sprinkled with a little friendly competition.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Community anchor organisations across Birmingham are invited to join the ranks of a new collaboration network aiming to transform local lives and revitalise our neighbourhoods.
The offer is open to all community-led groups who deliver services which benefit city communities and the people living and working in them.
The Birmingham Community Action Network (B:CAN) brings together some of the most dynamic and influential community organisations in support of one strategic goal – to drive and deliver impactful change across the city.
A number of B:CAN led initiatives have already taken shape in communities across Birmingham. B:CAN Mental Health is being coordinated and delivered by five partners who deploy friendly service advisors to help people on a range of issues.
B:CAN Energy, supported by Energy Redress funding, involves teams of Community Energy Advisors providing people with accessible energy advice to help them save money, reduce household energy use and support with suppliers and debt issues.
Strength in numbers
Now, organisations are being invited to apply to join the Network to further strengthen collaboration, improve provision and extend the reach of services to those people who need it most across Birmingham.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a proud member of B:CAN with Chief Officer, Afzal Hussain leading the network as its current Chair. He said the Network’s potential to impact lives and create a legacy of positive change for Birmingham is an opportunity not to be missed.
“This new network has come together to do things differently in tackling and reducing inequality and deprivation in Birmingham and local communities need a central role in the decision-making process, so effective change is delivered where it is needed most,” told Afzal.
He added: “We welcome applications from organisations and groups based in Birmingham that share our ethos of community-led action. This is a fantastic opportunity to not only strengthen the B:CAN network and reach more residents but to make new connections and access funding opportunities.
“Whether you’re a small, local group just starting out, or a larger established organisation, B:CAN is your chance to develop sector connections that will help develop and grow your business while enhancing the Network’s reach and output.”
So far, 21 of the city’s most respected community organisations have joined B:CAN to work together to collaboratively bring positive and impactful change across the city.
Join B:CAN
Applications are now being invited from Birmingham based community organisations to join the network as either a Member or Affiliate and we also welcome applications from partners who are interested in funding the B:CAN network or B:CAN projects.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Kingstanding police helping distribute school uniforms at McDonald’s in Kingstanding / Photograph supplied by WLCA
Words by Witton Lodge Community Association
Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) were thrilled and privileged to support a wonderful school uniform giveaway which has given local families a timely boost ahead of the new academic year.
Kingstanding Police Constable, Faye Purcell, came up with the fantastic idea of kitting out primary school children, while sitting in her garden three weeks ago!
Community collaboration
More than 40 families have benefited from the Back-To-School initiative which was delivered in partnership with Vision 4 All, Perry Common Community Watch, and Remmer Restaurants (McDonald’s).
“A few weeks ago I was on leave, just sat in my garden and thinking to myself, what can I do to give something back to the local community,” said Faye.
“Then the school uniform idea just popped into my head and I felt it was something that could be achieved. I made a couple of phone calls to see if people would be interested in supporting the idea and lo-and-behold here we are, three weeks later, giving families and their children a real boost. It’s fantastic.”
An appeal was put out to Erdington families with children aged from five-to-11 years inviting them to claim free school essentials including uniform, stationary, pencil cases and bags.
Within 24-hours of the project being posted on social media all the had been claimed; issued to parents on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Vision 4 You helping distribute school uniforms at McDonald’s in Kingstanding / Photograph supplied by WLCA
Families benefit
Two sessions, one held at Witton Lakes Eco Hub and the other at the McDonald’s restaurant on College Road in Kingstanding gave families the chance to collect their items.
Franchise Manager at McDonald’s Nikki Remmer, said: “It’s been really wonderful to support families in the local community in this way.
“As soon as we heard about the project we wanted to get involved.”
The uniforms were donated by Vision 4 All.
Founder of B Major CIC, Bianca-Jade Adeniran, said: “This was the group’s second annual school uniform giveaway which is an amazing initiative, especially in these times that are challenging for so many families.”
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Groundwork West Midlands Corporate Volunteers working at Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Photograph supplied by WLCA
Words by Witton Lodge Community Association
A partnership project with Groundwork West Midlands saw a team of Corporate Volunteers pour into Witton Lakes Eco Hub to carry out landscape improvements.
Volunteers from HS2 were on site to help to demolish the Community Orchards existing raised beds, relocate Compost Bins and repaint several metal benches.
Supported by volunteers from the Friends of Witton Lakes (FOWL), they also completed preservation treatment works on the Eco Hub’s fencing and wooden play equipment.
Chair of Witton Lodge Community Association, Linda Hines MBE, who has the same position with FOWL, praised the collaboration effort.
“Several years ago, Groundwork West Midlands got in touch with us to inform us that they organise groups of Corporate Volunteers to help with community projects.
“Over the next three years we had volunteers from different organisations come to help us twice a year. Today’s visit has been fabulous!! The volunteers worked solidly all day long and have transformed the grounds. We are really proud of what they have done and they are rightly proud of themselves too.”
Groundwork West Midlands Corporate Volunteers working at Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Photograph supplied by WLCA
Rachel Riley, Healthy Lifestyles Project Officer at Groundwork West Midlands, helped to coordinate the work.
She said: “We brought 21 volunteers to Witton Lakes Eco Hub. The site is beautiful and very well run by the staff and volunteers.
“We were made to feel very welcome by the team at Witton Lodge Community Association, so I just want to say, on behalf of all of us, a big thank you.”
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
On your marks, get set and go go go and enjoy an Active August at Witton Lakes Eco Hub!
Our action-packed schedule of fun family-friendly activities means there something for everyone to savour, every weekday from Monday 4 to Friday 29 August.
You can unleash your creative instincts with our arts and crafts sessions and Bulls in The City workshops; get closer to local wildlife with Duckling Watch and give those green-fingers a good work out with gardening activities which include growing fruit, herbs and vegetables.
You can also learn how to build your own planter.
Family enjoying summer activities with Witton Lodge Community Assocation / Photograph supplied by WLCA
For the more adventurous of you why not share your detective skills in our scavenger hunts or put your imagination to good use with our creative sessions or in our newly opened Makers Yard!
With a range of outdoor games, workshops and a food/gardening events, every appetite is catered for – so get involved and make sure this August is your most active yet!
Most Active August activities are FREE – check the flyer for full details.
It all kicks off on Monday, 4 August from 1pm at Witton Lakes Eco Hub, off Faulkners Farm Drive, B23 7XX.
If you have any questions or need further information please call our friendly team on (0121) 227 3200.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Witton Lodge Community Association are delighted to once more throw the doors open on our annual live music event Track Friday.
Residents are invited to enjoy a showcase of singing, dancing and poetry at Perry Common Community Hall on 11 July when some of North Birmingham’s most creative young talents take centre stage.
Once the lights go down people can enjoy the artistry of Chyna Victoria, Zach Gallagher, Tee Leonie, Ray Ritess, Sensei Jay, Spencer, Amadeus TMM, Satch, Chardevaughan, Rochae, Dsix Seven Ess, Roman, and Raja. A special artist hour will also feature Juddah James and Rufus Rose.
Local singer Jamie Lee, who appeared at last year’s Track Friday, will be back to wow the crowds again. Having stolen the show 12 months ago, Witton Lodge’ directors booked her to perform at our 30th anniversary gala in November!
Performing artists and event founder, Dellano Lewis (second from right), at Track Friday 2024 / Photograph supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
Dellano Lewis, Community Engagement Officer at Witton Lodge, established Track Friday in 2016. The annual community engagement showpiece provides a platform for the organisation to connect young people to some of its services.
Dellano, who will also be performing at the event as his creative alter-ego, BeeNiice, said: “Track Friday is more than just a live music show.
“It gives the performers, and everyone who attends the show, the opportunity to access Witton Lodge services which can support their education, training and employment needs.”
This year’s event is being sponsored by, and delivered in partnership with, Birmingham Metropolitan College; with a number of its students set to perform.
Hosted by Junelle Jae, with music courtesy of DJ Gaz H, and featuring guest speaker Evo Wiser, the doors open on Track Friday 2025 at 5.30pm at 87 Witton Lodge Road (B23 5JD) with the live performances starting at 6pm. There will also be a prize raffle, food and refreshments.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
If you would like to develop new skills, meet new people and enjoy new experiences, then you should try volunteering.
Whether your passion is gardening, cooking, DIY, engineering, IT, marketing or childcare, there’s something for everyone.
On Thursday, 12 June, a Volunteer Recruitment event takes place from 11am to 2pm at St Barnabas Church on Erdington High Street.
A range of organisations will be attending to promote all their volunteering opportunities and offering advice and guidance on how you can support local people and local communities while learning something new.
So, if you have a few hours to spare each week, why not start a new adventure. Volunteering has so many benefits.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Outside of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development, taken from Mason Road (photograph by Joe Marchant)
Say it loud, say it proud, the former Erdington Baths is 100 years old this May!
The building on Mason Road opened to the public on 6 May 1925, offering the local community a range of exciting new recreational activities with its swimming pool, washing baths for men and women, and Turkish baths.
An Art Deco-inspired design captured the imagination of users and passers-by alike; sleek lines, elegant curves and distinctive brickwork with ornate detail; the facility’s rich history owes as much to its distinctive aesthetic charm as much as the activities it housed.
But after decades of service to the community, Erdington’s much-loved-landmark was closed down in 2014 after falling into a state of disrepair. But with its legacy still casting a proud shadow of former glories across the town, its centenary year brings us onto the cusp of an exciting new era for local residents.
Erdington Baths ticket booth circa 1925 / Photograph supplied by WLCA
The 100 year anniversary of Erdington Swimming Baths is a time to reflect on the cherished memories it gave local people, the bond it cemented with the local community and to use those special attachments and emotions to shape a bright new future for the site.
Witton Lodge Community Association is very proud and privileged to be leading on a project to transform the building into a state-of-the-art Enterprise Hub.
Funded in partnership with Birmingham City Council and the West Midlands Combined Authority, work on the £4million project kickstarted with the creation of a vibrant pocket park and recent strip out works getting the building ready for surveying.
The main entrance and former pool hall will be converted into a co-working space with studio pods and meeting rooms. A restaurant, creche and smaller offices are also included in the new design.
(L-R) WLCA CO Afzal Hussain, with BMet Principal/CEO Pat Carvalho and WM Mayor Richard Parker at launch of ‘Phase One’ of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph by Joe Marchant)
Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association, said Erdington’s past can be the springboard for shaping a future where it thrives.
“First of all, we, as an organisation, are thrilled to be breathing new life into this much-loved building,” he said.
“Community and people are at the heart of everything we do and want to achieve. We have held a number of engagement events at the site on Mason Road, so people can come and find out about the plans to transform the building into an enterprise hub and, most importantly, help co-design the look and feel of the building.
“We’ve heard so many wonderful stories from residents about learning to swim at the baths and how they took their children there for classes and met people who became their friends and family.
“The baths hold a special place in the hearts of local residents so it was always a priority for us to include those people in the development process; talking to them about how the building should be brought back into use, what should it look like, what services should run from there.”
WLCA welcome local residents and community volunteers to ‘Phase One’ of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph by Joe Marchant)
To underline this connection to the 100 year old baths, here are just a few of the comments captured from local people:
“It’s great for the area and will put Erdington on the map in a positive way.” – Mia Werson, Erdington resident and member of Friends of Witton Lakes
“This is exactly what Erdington needs. it will bring the community together.” – Angie Chapman, from The Recovery Foundation
“It is an exciting use of an historic building and a great opportunity to support Erdington’s economic growth.” – Rebekah Roebuck, Erdington resident
“It is nice to see the old swimming pool being used again on a community level.” – Elizabeth Walker, Erdington resident
Visitors see inside of Erdington Bath as ‘Phase One’ launch of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph by Joe Marchant)
These sentiments and more are the reasons why, as Afzal explains, the new hub will play a key role in shaping and sustaining success for residents and the community at large, for years to come.
“Our vision goes beyond simply transforming the physical structure and appearance of the former baths,” he said.
“We are committed to creating a facility that provides on-site support which nurtures local talent and empowers budding entrepreneurs and social enterprises to develop and flourish.
“As it did in the past, this historic building will sit at the very heart of Erdington life, bringing the community together, so that in 100 years from now, people will have just as many stories to tell and memories to share.”
Thanks to the support and guidance of Intervention Architecture Ltd, work has already been completed on a vibrant new pocket park outside the front of the building.
Dedicated volunteers, alongside members of the public and Erdington Walking Group worked tirelessly for two months, through rain and shine, to paint new life into the exterior of the former baths. Colourful planters and railings now entice passers-by.
To mark the baths centenary, Erdington Walking Group organised a special Commemorative Walk on Tuesday (5 May), also marking the hundredth birthday of Erdington Court Bowls Club later in the month.
Local volunteers working on pocket park outside the Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph supplied by WLCA)
With more than 150 members on its books, the bowls club is part of Erdington Recreational Trust, a registered charity that has existed for over 100 years. Bowls became part of the Club in 1925.
Starting on Mason Road, the 30 minute walk took participants on an information laden stroll to the Bowls Club on Bowling Green Close where people were able to tour the venue and take in its historical photographic exhibition; before returning back to the meeting point.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Eco Together members at Witton Lakes Eco Hub – outside / Image supplied by WLCA
Witton Lodge Community Association is delighted to announce that we will be running our third cohort of Eco Together – Witton Lakes, this May.
If you are passionate about the environment and want to make a positive impact but don’t know where to start? Join the Eco Together programme at Witton Lakes Eco Hub!
What is Eco Together?
Eco Together is more than just a course, it’s a community-driven movement powered by local people who care deeply about the environment and want to make a real, lasting difference right here in our neighbourhood.
At its heart, Eco Together is about bringing neighbours, friends, and colleagues together to explore practical, everyday actions that address the eco-crisis. It doesn’t require megaphones or superpowers, just a willingness to try something new and share the journey with others.
The Eco Together programme, held at Witton Lakes Eco Hub, is completely free and open to everyone, with no prior experience or expertise needed. The course runs over six sessions, with each session held in the welcoming, eco-friendly surroundings of Witton Lakes Eco Hub, a space designed with sustainability and community at its core.
Eco Together members at Witton Lakes Eco Hub – inside / Image supplied by WLCA
Each week, the group focuses on a different theme, including energy, transport, food, and resource use, exploring simple yet effective ways to make positive changes.
Sessions are interactive and supportive, encouraging everyone to select small actions to try out and then report back on at the next meeting, fostering a sense of shared purpose and accountability.
Read some of the brilliant reviews from previous cohorts below:
“I’ve enjoyed focusing on different topics each week as this has made me think about areas I haven’t done before.”
“There were many interesting speakers, I would like more courses like this!”
“It was great to meet likeminded eco-warriors.”
Ready to make a difference?
Join the 6-week programme starting Saturday, 3 May, running on selected dates until 19 July at Witton Lakes Eco Hub!
Participants must commit to at least four of the six sessions and will receive hints and tips. useful resources and engaging activities to support their ongoing eco-journeys. Spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to book your spot early.
Join Witton Lakes Eco Hub and let’s work together for a greener, more sustainable future!
To reserve your place, contact Scott at (0121) 227 3200 or email [email protected]
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) are thrilled to announce the upcoming Shaping Birmingham’s Future Together (SBFT) Marketplace Roadshow, coming directly to Perry Common Community Hall and delivered by WLCA.
This incredible community event is designed to bring vital local services and resources right to your doorstep. This event is perfect for everyone in the Erdington and North Birmingham community, whether you’re:
Seeking employment support
Looking for housing advice
Interested in health and wellbeing services
Wanting to get involved in community initiatives / volunteering
John Cotton, Leader of Birmingham City Council said: “The Shaping Birmingham’s Future Together Marketplace Roadshows are a great opportunity for people to learn more about the services and support available from Birmingham City Council and a wide range of partner organisations and community groups.”
He added: “These events showcase our city at its very best.”
WLCA at Perry Common Community Hall / Image by Ed King
Event details Date: Wednesday, 26 February 2025 Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Location: Witton Lodge Community Association, Perry Common Community Hall, Witton Lodge, 87 Witton Lodge Road, Erdington, B23 5JD
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
