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Trustees and partners gather for Chair’s Reception 2025

Last Friday evening Dr Francis Murray, the chair of the Trustees of Sutton Coldfield Charitable Trust, welcomed fellow Trustees, team members and valued partners to Lingard House for our annual Chair’s Reception.

Image: SCCT Chair Dr Francis Murray presents flowers to Lyn and Steven Dudley, the wife and son of former chair Keith Dudley, who passed away last year.

This yearly get-together allows us to celebrate what has been achieved in the last 12 months, as well as looking forward to the challenges, opportunities and projects that lie ahead, as we approach the Trust’s 500th anniversary in 2028.

Dr Murray paid tribute to Keith Dudley, the Trust’s previous chair who passed away last year, and presented flowers to his widow Lyn and son Steven.

He said: “When I joined the Trust, Keith was so welcoming and friendly, and this never changed. He gave a lot of time to the Trust and to other charitable works, while also being incredibly dedicated to his family. He will be missed very much.”

He also praised former Chief Executive Tina Swani, who stepped down last year after five years in the role.

In the past year, the Trust has seen the roll-out of a new digital grants system, and an ongoing maintenance programme at the almshouses in Walmley.

Dr Murray said: “Our new digital grants system comes at a time when there is a lot of need in the community. Although many people view Sutton Coldfield as an affluent place, there are still residents in need of help, which we are committed to providing.

“In addition, we’ve put a lot of money into our almshouses and meet regularly with our residents to seek their feedback. It’s a very productive relationship and we look forward to achieving more for them here on the site.”

Lastly, with preparations beginning for Sutton Coldfield’s Quincentenary in 2028, Dr Murray paid tribute to SCCT’s long-time close relationship with Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, which is growing ever-stronger in the countdown to this landmark event.

He said: “The Town Council and the Trust have been mutually supportive for so long. We look forward to building on that relationship for the town’s 500th anniversary celebration – we aren’t too far from our own Quincentenary!”

Sir Andrew Mitchell MP, who was unable to attend the event, sent his support, saying: “The Trust’s unwavering commitment to enhance the quality of life in our Royal Town is truly commendable.

“From the significant refurbishment of the almshouses at Lingard House, providing safe and comfortable homes for our elderly residents, to the generous grants supporting vital community services, your efforts have made a tangible difference in the lives of many.

“As we look forward ahead to the 500th anniversary of Sutton Coldfield’s Royal charter in 2028, the Trust’s role in fostering community cohesion and resilience is more vital than ever.

“I would like also to take this opportunity to acknowledge the exemplary leadership of chair Keith Dudley and the invaluable contributions of retiring trustees – your guidance and service have been instrumental in steering the trust towards continued success – and wish Dr Francis Murray the very best as chair.”