Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council and Good Hope Hospital have launched a photo exhibition created by residents which celebrates the ‘soul’ of Sutton Coldfield.

Photography enthusiasts were invited to enter a ‘Soul of Sutton’ photography competition, submitting their favourite images that captured the best of the Royal Town.

Cllr John Perks, mayor of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, selected the winning entries.

Due to the variety of high-quality entries received, the Town Council wanted to share these images more widely with the community.

Many of the entries showcased themes of health and wellbeing and highlighted the positive effects that nature, social interaction and creativity can have on people’s lives.

With Good Hope Hospital looking to brighten up the walls of their Treatment Centre to bring comfort and joy to patients, visitors and staff, they agreed to showcase some of the entries.

Thirteen entries are on display in the Good Hope Hospital Treatment Centre, each one offering a different perspective on what makes Sutton Coldfield such a special place to live, work and visit.

Residents featured are Austen Evans, Adrian Whittle, Catherine A. D'Costa, David Shiner, Judith Sawbridge, Owen Griffiths, Martin Tierney, Martin Whitehead, Pat Fereday and Tracey Babington.

Martin Tierney, creator of the ‘Station Steps’ image, said: "I am truly delighted that my photograph is part of the exhibition and is now on display at the Treatment Centre in Good Hope Hospital.

“As a photographer, this opportunity means so much to me. It's a way to express my deep pride in Sutton Coldfield, the town I've called home for the past 40 years. I hope this resonates with the community, as I share these feelings with all of you."

Tracey Babington, creator of ‘Nighttime at St Michael’s Church’, said: “I am very happy that my photo of St Michael's church in Boldmere, Sutton Coldfield with Christmas decorations hanging from trees, is on display.

“This photo is very special to me. It was taken last year when we attended the Christmas memorial service that was held by Hazel & Sons Funeral Directors, for my mother who passed away. I took this photo just before heading in.”

David Shiner, creator of ‘Exmoor Ponies in Sutton Park’ said: “It's fantastic to see my photo being displayed at the Treatment Centre, and I really hope that it can give some pleasure to people visiting the building.”

Mayor Cllr John Perks said: “It is fantastic to witness the civic pride which resonates with the residents of Sutton Coldfield and each image has captured life in our town so wonderfully. 

“I would like to extend a huge congratulations to all the featured artists.”

Simon Jarvis, Good Hope Hospital executive director, said: “As well as being able to offer the Town Council a light and bright space within the heart of the Sutton community, we know that art is therapeutic for our patients and visitors, contributing to an overall enhanced patient experience.”