Hello Solihull 👋

A huge well done to everyone who took on the London Marathon today, whether you were running, supporting, fundraising, tracking someone from home, or simply feeling inspired by it all, there’s something brilliant about seeing thousands of people pushing themselves for causes, people and stories that matter. Proper goosebumps stuff.

Closer to home, we’ve got another packed week across Solihull and the surrounding area, from local sport and community updates to live music in Solihull, family activities, food finds and bigger events worth booking ahead.

So whether you’re recovering from marathon tracking, planning your Bank Holiday weekend, or just looking for a few easy local ideas, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s get into it.

— Max

It’s been a big week for one of Solihull’s local sports clubs. Solihull Karate Club travelled to the City of Liverpool Youth Championships this weekend and came away with an impressive 19 medals against some seriously strong competition.

A special mention goes to Sensei Thomas, who marked his final youth competition in style and was crowned Grand Champion after winning both Men’s Kata and Kumite.

That alone is rare. He also picked up The Kathy Hutchinson Most Outstanding Competitor Trophy, becoming the first person to win it twice since it was introduced, a huge achievement and a reflection of his all-round ability.

Behind the scenes, there was also a big team effort, with thanks to coaches and volunteers helping make the day run smoothly. And they’re not slowing down…

The club is now gearing up for the British Championships on 9 May, where they’ll be looking to build on this momentum.

If you’ve ever thought about trying something new locally, whether for fitness, confidence or discipline, this is one of those clubs quietly doing amazing things in the community.

👉 You can find classes and get involved here: Solihull Karate Club classes

Inspired by the London Marathon? Acorns Children’s Hospice is the official charity partner for Run Solihull 2026, giving local runners a chance to take on a Solihull challenge while supporting children and families who need specialist care.

Run Solihull takes place on Sunday 9 August, starting from Malvern Park in Solihull town centre. Entry through Acorns is free, with a minimum sponsorship pledge of £50-£250 depending on your distance.

A lovely one if you want to turn that marathon motivation into something local.

👉 Join / Support Team Acorns here

A lovely local group is looking for someone who can help keep things moving behind the scenes. Tidbury Green Scouts are looking for a lead volunteer, helping support the local Scout group and the children who benefit from it each week.

Scouts plays such a big role in helping young people build confidence, learn practical skills, make friends and try things they might not otherwise get to do, but like so many community groups, it relies on volunteers giving their time and energy.

You don’t need to be Bear Grylls. You just need to be organised, willing to help, and up for supporting something that makes a real difference locally.

👉 Find out more here

A quick thank you from us this week. Last week, we shared the Wake Green AFC Juniors fundraiser, helping the Shirley-based junior football team raise money for new kits, training wear and essential equipment for next season.

As part of that, Solihull Spotlight pledged to donate 50p for every valid referral to the newsletter. And thanks to you, we had 57 referrals this week. 👏

That works out at £28.50, so we’re rounding it up and donating £30 to the Wake Green AFC fundraiser. Their GoFundMe is aiming for £2,300, and every bit of local support helps grassroots football keep giving young players confidence, friendships and opportunities.

Massive thanks to everyone who shared Solihull Spotlight with a friend, neighbour, WhatsApp chat or local football family this week. It genuinely makes a difference, both for us as we grow, and for the local groups we’re trying to support along the way.

All the best to Wake Green AFC Juniors with the rest of the fundraising. We’re cheering you on. 💛

👉 Support the fundraiser here

Farm-to-table food & countryside views. If you’re looking for somewhere that feels like a little trip out without going too far, The Barn at Berryfields is a lovely one to have on your list.

Set on Berryfields Farm in Meriden, it serves breakfast, lunch and dinner through the week, with a signature Sunday roast, children’s menu, and a big focus on produce from the on-site farm, bakery and kitchen garden.

It’s the kind of place that works for a few different plans: Sunday lunch with family, a slower breakfast, or a treat-yourself dinner with countryside views.

👉 Book / view menus here

A Solihull favourite for a reason, The Farm Inn in Shirley is a restored farmhouse pub with plenty of character, good food and a relaxed setting.

The menu includes wood-fired pizzas, dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood, with the pub open from midday through the week and until 10:30pm on Sundays.

It’s a strong shout if you want somewhere local that still feels a bit special, whether you’re heading out with family, catching up with friends, or just refusing to cook on a Sunday.

👉 Book / view menus here

Looking for things to do in Solihull? Here are a few local events, classes, live music nights, family activities and active ideas worth having on your radar.

• Bin collections: https://digital.solihull.gov.uk/BinCollectionCalendar/
• Council news + updates: https://www.solihull.gov.uk/news
• Travel disruptions (West Midlands): https://disruptions.tfwm.org.uk/

Thanks for reading Solihull Spotlight 💙 let’s chat again on Thursday! Hit reply and tell me what you want more of next week: family, events, food, deals, walking routes, live music, sport, or hidden gems.

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