With the new year now upon us, we have taken a quick look back at five of our favourite heartwarming new stories from 2021.

1. Kenilworth Kindness Campaign

2021 kicked off with a new initiative launched by Forrest Coffee House that was designed to spread some positivity during January.

Residents and fellow businesses were encouraged to share little gifts and pieces of joy to brighten up somebody's day.

From free cups of coffee to just talking to strangers in the street, ideas came from all across town.

Read the full story here.

2. Mystery photos of 1970's Kenilworth wedding found

Back in March we spoke to a Leeds-based furniture company which had found 12 photos of a wedding in the back of an old dresser.

The company's owner had managed to trace the photos back to St Nicholas Church in Abbey Fields.

But as yet the original owners still haven't been found.

Could they be someone you know? Click here to find out more.

3. Students cycling plans

Two local students have gathered over 1,000 signatures on a petition calling for better cycling facilities in the town.

The petition, which specifically wants safer cycling for the new Kenilworth School, has been launched by two teenagers from the town.

And the petition clearly struck a chord in the town, having hit the 1,000 mark in just a matter of days.

Read the story here.

4. Four-year-old marks Remembrance Sunday

The return of the Remembrance Sunday parade in 2021 saw four-year-old Sophie Cartwright lay a wreathe on behalf of the local Poppy Appeal.

Sophie had been volunteering as a collector for the appeal throughout November with her parents and was asked to be the service's youngest participant this year.

Dad, Jamie, said: "I am really proud of Sophie, but the point is that people will hopefully follow her example and get involved in the Royal British Legion."

Read more here.

5. 30-year-old business keeps its doors open

A Kenilworth lingerie shop which first opened its doors over 30 years ago has been given a new lease of life by its new owner.

Undies Unlimited in Millar Court has been taken over by Lisa Gough after previous owner Josie King, 86, decided to sell the business.

But Josie will still be working in the shop one day a week.

Read the full story here.