What Staffy Is All About

At heart, Staffy is a cheerful Staffordshire Bull Terrier character created to spark curiosity about the many wonders of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. The project is the result of a creative collaboration between the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) and households-known animation studio Carse & Waterman.
Rather than a static figure, Staffy is envisioned as an ongoing tour guide — a friendly face that helps residents and visitors alike explore the County’s:
•    rolling countryside,
•    heritage sites,
•    world-class attractions,
•    outdoor adventures and family experiences.

A Three-Year Strategy to Grow Tourism

The introduction of Staffy isn’t just about cute vibes — it’s part of a three-year plan to grow Staffordshire’s tourism economy, which is already worth more than £2.7 billion. 
According to Arthur Barnard, Chair of the LVEP, Staffy provides a fun and friendly way to show the country why Staffordshire is “the nation’s playground”, bringing together the county’s natural beauty, heritage, and hospitality in a way that’s easily recognisable and engaging for audiences of all ages. 
Martin Murray, Staffordshire County Council’s Acting Leader, emphasised that the County’s visitor economy has grown strongly since the pandemic, and that Staffy will help attract even more visitors to discover hidden gems and support local businesses across the region. 

The Staffy Trail – A Towns-Wide Adventure

One of the most exciting elements tied to the launch is The Staffy Trail — a new public art experience set to debut on Staffordshire Day (1 May). Visitors will be able to wander through:
•    Stoke-on-Trent City Centre
•    Stafford
•    Tamworth
…where they’ll find large-scale Staffy sculptures designed by local artists and inspired by ideas submitted by local schoolchildren. Each piece is intended to showcase unique stories and spark exploration across town centres — all while supporting nearby cafés, shops, and visitor attractions. 

Get Involved: Staffy Supporters

The LVEP and Staffordshire County Council are inviting businesses and organisations to become Staffy Supporters — offering sponsorship opportunities for the trail sculptures and involvement in Staffordshire Day programming. This is a great way for local enterprises to gain visibility while championing the county’s cultural and tourism spirit. 

Why Staffy Matters

Beyond its friendly look, Staffy is a strategic move to:
•    strengthen Staffordshire’s identity as a top UK destination,
•    boost economic activity by encouraging visitors to stay, explore, and spend,
•    celebrate local creativity and community pride,
•    connect cultural heritage with contemporary experiences. 

With exciting events planned for the year ahead and a growing network of partners helping bring Staffordshire’s story to life, Staffy is more than a mascot — it’s a symbol of ambition, community, and shared experience 

So why do we make them? New Year’s resolutions are more than just a chance to feel guilty about the leftover mince pies. They’re a little spark of optimism—a chance to hit refresh, to challenge ourselves, and maybe even surprise ourselves with what we can achieve. They’re also a brilliant excuse to stock up on shiny new gym gear that might get used.

For me, this year, my resolution is bold: finally get past week 1 of Couch to 5k. That’s right. Week one has defeated me in previous years, but 2026 is the year I conquer it… maybe. (Don’t tell my sofa.)

Of course, not everyone’s resolutions involve running—or kale smoothies, or early mornings. Some people are taking the slow and steady approach, like dedicating more time to friends, reading more, or simply being kinder to themselves. And then, of course, there’s a brilliant bunch of folks who are just saying: “You know what? I’m good as I am. No resolutions this year, thanks.” Fair enough - the honesty of it is pretty refreshing too.

Whatever your approach—whether you’re sprinting into the new year, tiptoeing in, or happily ignoring the resolution hype—there’s one thing we can all agree on: a new year is a chance to laugh, learn, and maybe try a little something new (even if it’s just a different route to the fridge).

So, here’s to 2026! Whether your resolution is daring, daft, or “do nothing at all,” let’s make it a year worth smiling about. And hey—if you see me jogging past, feel free to cheer… or at least offer a coffee at the halfway point.

Whether you’re here for the storytelling, the shopping, the food, or simply the atmosphere, this is one Christmas event you won’t want to miss.

What’s Happening Around Town?

Eccleshall will be alive with entertainment from start to finish, offering something special on every corner:

🎭 Narrated A Christmas Carol Walking Trails

Experience Dickens’ classic tale as you journey through Eccleshall’s historic streets. Follow Scrooge’s transformation as your guide brings the story to life, blending festive theatre with the charm of our beautiful town.

🎅 Meet Santa at Holy Trinity Church

A must-visit for families! Santa will be waiting to hear Christmas wishes and spread joy throughout the afternoon.

🌲 Christmas Tree Festival

Holy Trinity will also host its much-loved Christmas Tree Festival. Wander amongst dozens of beautifully decorated trees and cast your vote for your favourite.

💫 Carols & Light Switch-On at the Crossroads

As the evening draws in, gather around the tree for the magical light switch-on. Warm up with BBQ bites and toasted marshmallows as carols fill the air — the perfect way to round off a festive day.

🛍️ Shop ’Til You Drop

Support local this Christmas by exploring Eccleshall, a town brimming with independent retailers, gift shops, eateries, and bars.  Pick up unique presents, seasonal treats, or enjoy a cosy drink as you soak up the atmosphere.

🎁 Treasure Trails for Adults & Kids

Take part in one of our exciting Treasure Trails, with versions for all ages. Thanks to the generosity of Eccleshall businesses, prizes include:

Panto tickets, Luxury tipples, Clutch bags and jewellery, Hair & beauty vouchers, Fibre optic trees, Chocolates…and much more!

A fun way to explore the town — and maybe win something special.

🎤 Live Music & Meet the Panto Cast

Enjoy festive tunes throughout the afternoon, and look out for the panto' cast making appearances to meet families and join in the fun.

🍽️ Special Offers Across Town

Many shops, cafés, bars, and restaurants will be offering exclusive discounts, festive menus, and themed treats throughout the day. From mulled drinks to gift bundles, there’s something for every taste.

Come and Celebrate, the Eccleshall Way

A Very Eccleshall Christmas is all about community, celebration and coming together to share in the joy of the season. Whether you're visiting for a quick browse or planning to spend the whole day, they can’t wait to welcome you.

Get yourself down this Advent Sunday for a day filled with Christmas cheer, seasonal sparkle, and unforgettable moments.

It’s Christmas… the Eccleshall way. 🎄✨

For the full schedule of what's happening, where visit: www.bentsbh.com/a-very-eccleshall-christmas

Tragically, Gracie passed away in February 2025, but her spirit of generosity lives on through the "Gracie May’s Dream A Little Dream" fundraiser. Organised by her family, this initiative aims to support the Royal Stoke Children’s Oncology and Wards by funding day trips for young patients and their families, as well as providing iPads, projectors, toys, and crafts. Additionally, the fundraiser seeks to assist other local children’s cancer charities.

The community has rallied behind this cause with various fundraising activities. 35 of Gracie May's friends and family are undertaking a vintage bike ride from Newcastle-under-Lyme to Rhyl, in May, while others are preparing for events like the Wolf Run in June. These efforts embody the collective commitment to honour Gracie's legacy and bring joy to children facing similar battles.

To date, the fundraiser has garnered £4,640 from 182 donations, reflecting the profound impact Gracie had on those around her. Every contribution, big or small, helps continue her mission of spreading love and support to young patients in need.

To learn more about Gracie May’s Dream A Little Dream or to make a donation, please visit the official GoFundMe page:

👉 Gracie May’s Dream A Little Dream

Steven is currently walking 1,880 miles: the distance from Acorns Children’s Hospice to the Sahara Desert, all to raise money for them.  Acorns are a charity that provides vital care and support for life-limited children and their families. And at the heart of his mission is his brave and beautiful niece, Megan.

Megan was born with a rare chromosome condition. Her organs were fused at birth, she is non-verbal, and she requires round-the-clock care. But what Megan may lack in words, she more than makes up for in strength — and in the way she inspires everyone around her, especially her uncle Steven.

“Everything I’m doing is for Megan,” Steven says. “She can’t walk or talk, but she still lights up a room. I want to do something that shows just how powerful love is — and how much children like Megan deserve support.”

Steven’s journey isn’t just physically demanding — it’s emotionally powerful. Every step is a tribute to Megan and a call for awareness about the vital role hospices like Acorns play in supporting families through their toughest days.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and support for their families. The charity relies on fundraising efforts like Steven’s to continue its crucial work.

You can hear more from Steven on the Early Birds Breakfast Show — he joined us on Saturday 3rd May between 9–10am, sharing stories from the road, the challenges he's faced, and what keeps him moving forward.

💚 If you’d like to support Steven and help him raise funds for Acorns, visit: https://justgiving.com/page/saharayomp4acorns

Follow his journey, cheer him on, and share his story — because walking for love is the most powerful kind of journey there is.

#WalkingForMegan #StevenDuffield #AcornsHospice #EpicWalk #Inspiration #FamilyLove #EarlyBirdsShow

Once upon a time, we navigated the world with nothing but a giant road atlas, a questionable sense of direction (I've still got this), and a co-pilot shouting, "I said LEFT!" But these days, sat navs do all the thinking for us. Perhaps that's not a bad thing - gone are the days of consulting your A to Z on the steering wheel whilst (hopefully) heading to the right destination.  While that’s convenient, it also means our map reading (and road sign reading) skills might be a little... rusty.

So, we’re putting your road sign knowledge to the test! Can you confidently decipher these THREE common but often misread road signs? Or have you been making some mistakes on the road? Let’s find out! 🚦🤔

1.  

a. Slippery Road

b. Adverse camber

c. Bend in the Road

2.     

a.Service area 30 miles ahead

b.Maximum speed 30 mph

c. Minimum speed 30 mph

3. 

a. Two-way traffic

b. Narrow Bridge

c. Diversion in place

I'm sharing details of my word of the week here.  You can also get details on my Sunday show, every week between 3-5pm.

The plan with this is to create a chart of music from our guests – if nothing else, you’ll realise the first single you bought wasn’t so bad.  Or maybe it might cause you to reminisce and be transported back to a moment in time, when……

I asked the same thing of my friends’ at the weekend – what was your first single? - and discovered I definitely am not one of the cool kids.  I had a response that included Bohemian Rhapsody and Elvis.  Mine? Thought you might ask that.  Mine was Criag McLachlan – Hey Mona. I’m holding my head high when I state that; in fairness I think I was only about 7, although you could argue that’s old enough to know better.  It was a cassette tape that I carried around religiously in my Walkman.

It's fair to say that my taste these days is much more eclectic but I still have a penchant for what I’d term ‘happy tunes’.  That’s why my go to song has to be Chesney Hawkes.  Give I Am The One & Only a listen, now.  I challenge you not to feel uplifted and be smiling by the end of it!
Watch this space for more details on our Community Guests’s Chart.