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Inside...
10 Win a Caravelle New York Women’s
Crystal Wristwatch Courtesy of H.S. Johnson
December 2017 12 22
12 A Window on the Past
Call the doctor?
20 A walk along the Heritage Trail
By Kate Gomez
22 Your Image Competition
Calling all photographers and artists
32 Christmas Gifts for Her
Discover the perfect festive gift
Welcome to CITYLIFE
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Welcome to CITYLIFE in Rugeley, a monthly magazine bringing you our pick of the area’s news, events and stories. Each month CITYLIFE in Rugeley is delivered to 11,000 businesses and homes in Rugeley, Ravenhill, Etchinghill, Slitting Mill, Armitage, Handsacre, Colton, Hill Ridware and Hamstall Ridware, completely free of charge; bringing you the best that the area has to offer. Each issue features heritage stories exploring the rich history of our area, plus competitions, interviews and the latest in fashion and style. Got a story or charity event you want to share with our readership? Think you’ve snapped an image that captures the spirit of the region? We want to hear from you!
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CITYLIFE Contacts Editor - Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048
josscitylife@gmail.com Deputy Editor - Kate Gomez 07742 917708 katecitylife@gmail.com Advertising-
Steve Brown 07740 166497 stevebrowncitylife@gmail.com Rebecca Hill 07970 513144 rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com Production - Helen Smith 07967 154187 helencitylife@gmail.com Citylife In Lichfield Ltd PO Box 7126 LICHFIELD WS14 4JS CITYLIFE in Lichfield and CITYLIFE in Rugeley magazines are not connected to any other publication or publisher, and are wholly owned by CITYLIFE in Lichfield Ltd. Citylife In Rugeley
Citylife in Rugeley does not endorse any business or organisation appearing in these pages, and the publication of any advertisement, editorial, event listing or advertising editorial does not constitute an endorsement by Citylife in Rugeley or Citylife in Lichfield Ltd.
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Happy Christmas
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from Citylife
ack in November last year we decided to launch a brand new magazine - Citylife in Rugeley, and this month marks the publication of the 13th issue. Thirteen might be unlucky for some, but we can honestly say we feel incredibly lucky to be part of your community. I’ve met some wonderful people over the past fourteen months. I am truly astounded by the time and care that so many of you put in to making the town, surrounding villages and countryside such great places to live. I know how hard you all work to make this happen. On that note, everyone at Citylife would like to wish you a very, very merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous new year.
See you all in 2018! Joss Editor
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WIN a Caravelle New York Women's Crystal Wristwatch
itylife in Rugeley has got together with H.S. Johnson of Anson Street, Rugeley to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a Caravelle New York Women’s Crystal Wristwatch.
This Ladies Caravelle New York Rock Crystal Watch retails at ÂŁ99 and is fastened with a gold tone metal bracelet. This exquisite piece mixes glamour with intrinsic style. To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the following question. H.S. Johnson can be found at: A. 8 Anson Street, Rugeley B. 8 Brewery Street, Rugeley C. 8 Market Street, Rugeley
To enter, just send your name, answer A, B or C to Ladies' Crystal Watch Competition, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS or email citylifecompetitions@gmail.com by the competition closing date of 12th January 2018. Please note H.S. Johnson may contact entrants with news, information and offers. If you do not wish to be contacted include the words OPT OUT in your entry. For full terms and conditions see page 34.
M.O.T
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A Window on the Past Call the doctor?
Over the next few months seasonal coughs and colds will see many of us visiting pharmacies and GPs – but before the NHS, what did the people of Rugeley do when they fell ill? Here, The Landor Society takes us on a guided tour of healthcare before the National Health Service.
Up until the start of the National Health Service in 1948 medical care had to be paid for by the patient or by various charitable institutions. In Rugeley, a Mrs and Miss Levett in 1862 founded a charity ‘The Levett Convalescent Home’ and Parish Magazines were soon describing the Home as Rugeley Cottage Hospital. In 1865 a Dispensary and Medical Club was organised. Two years later its membership had reached 984. Donations and members’ ‘weekly pence’ provided medical attention and medicines for members and their families. It worked in close co-operation with the Home and four beds for members were established there. During the following years numerous subscribers’ donations and three bazaars raised nearly £1,300 which enabled a Cottage Hospital to be built in Brereton Road. Patients had to pay for their hospital stay, though a number of free beds were made available for the neediest. Many events were held in the town to raise funds for the Hospital’s upkeep. There was an annual ‘Hospital Sunday’ when friendly societies and youth groups paraded from St. Augustine’s to St Michael’s collecting money en-route. From 1923 until the outbreak of WW2 there was also a ‘Hospital Saturday’ each July with a carnival procession. By the 1930s this had developed into a whole week of fund-raising activities.
1. The Levett Convalescent Home in Church Street. 2. The stone commemorating the opening of the hospital on 10th August 1871 by Mrs Horsefall of Bellamour Hall. Her husband
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had donated £250 towards the building and continued to subscribe 10 guineas (£10.50) annually. 3. Rugeley Cottage Hospital in around 1900. 4. Many patent medicines were available ‘over the counter’. Samuel Morecroft of Armitage manufactured ‘Good Samaritan’ pills and ointment which were available from Bass, the chemist in Upper Brook Street. The empty pots made excellent egg cups! 5. The annual ‘Carnival Cracker’ included the programme for the events of Carnival Week, which concluded with a ‘Grand Procession’ and a dance on Saturday. 6. This image shows the accounts for the Rugeley District Hospital Linen League in 1939. The League was founded in 1933 to provide linen for the wards, household linen for the nursing and domestic staff and clothing for the use of patients. By 1939 the accounts show that these aims had been expanded.
The Landor Society is a focus for those who wish to learn more about the history of Rugeley and its surrounding parishes. It was founded in 1953 and was named in honour of Walter Noble Landor, local and county historian, who became the Society’s first President. More information is available at www.landor-localhistorysociety-rugeley.btck.co.uk Please note that these images may not be reproduced, copied, or used in any way without express permission from Citylife in Lichfield Ltd and The Landor Society.
Continued on page 14
My Month in Parliament
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By Amanda Milling MP
he last few weeks have been very busy in Parliament and I have spoken in a range of debates on topics including electric vehicles, waste site fires, the armed forces and switching energy suppliers - to name a few! One of the biggest local issues that I have been working on all year is ensuring that we do not see a repeat of last winter's problems on the Chase Line. Whilst the electrification of the line will mean that in due course we have faster and more frequent trains with more capacity, these improvements will not address the problems this Autumn. I recently met with both London Midland and Amazon to discuss the situation and it is evident that they have both been preparing for this Autumn, with both companies taking steps to address overcrowding and other issues. Amazon have taken a number of steps to reduce the demand on the Chase Line, such as increasing the number of buses serving their site at a much reduced fare, encouraging staff to car share, and reviewing shift patterns. London Midland will be carrying out more ticket checks on the line and will be taking action against passengers involved in anti-social behaviour on the trains. They have also worked hard to ensure there are as many carriages as possible available for peak time services. Hopefully these efforts will see many of last year’s issues and complaints reduced. When I met with Amazon I also raised once again the issues of HGV fly-parking as this has been a real problem for residents and businesses in and around Rugeley and Brereton. I was encouraged that they are looking at various ways of addressing this. As ever, if there are local issues you would like me to look into or you need my help in any way please do get in touch on 01543 877142 or email me onamanda.milling.mp@parliament.uk. I would like to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Competion Winners
Congratulations to S. Ashley, S. Mottram, J. Cass, C. Elson and R. Dutton
who gave the correct answer of 'Margo, Edith and Agnes' and have all won a Children's Minions Ceramic Set courtesy of Arthur Price.
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Collecting Silver
By Richard Winterton of Richard Winterton Auctioneers
ollecting antique and modern silver objects is an area enjoyed by both the novice and seasoned professional - the breadth, depth and price range on offer makes it enjoyable for all. Some focus on one theme, for example, Charles Horner hat pins; Nathaniel Mills castle top card cases; Victorian and Edwardian pin cushions in the shape of animals or anything related to wine such as corkscrews, wine funnels, claret jugs or decanter labels. The joy of silver is partly in the fact that it is such a tactile material. It does require a little work to keep it shining brightly but modern-day cleaners are often enhanced with an ingredient to prevent re-tarnishing, something our ancestors would have greatly appreciated. One benefit of collecting British silver is the fact that it carries hallmarks - a series of marks punched on to the piece which may well be the oldest forms of consumer protection still in existence. This system came about back in medieval England in the reign of Henry II. Due to the softness of silver in its purest form it needs to be mixed with an alloy to give it strength. A mix of 92.5% silver to 7.5% copper gave an excellent alloy and the king made a law
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to say this was the legal standard and hence sterling silver was born. Hallmarks have varied over time and city assay offices have come and gone but fortunately records have been kept and it is generally easy to identify marks. Collecting silver need not break the bank and a Charles Horner silver thimble might cost you around £10 at auction; a hatpin by the same maker around £30 - £40 and an enamel and silver pendant by him around £200. At the other end of the spectrum Georgian and Regency silver by some of the most famous British silversmiths can sell for over £100,000. The forthcoming Fine Silver sale takes place on Monday 21st March 2018 (entries are now being invited with the closing date Tuesday 20th February 2018). Free Valuations take place every Tuesday from 9.30am till 4pm at The Lichfield Auction Centre, Wood End Lane, Fradley Park, WS13 8NF.
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Rubys
for Capricorns
If you were born between December 23rd and January 20th you were born under the Zodiac sign of Capricorn. Intelligent, tenacious and determined, Capricorns are high-achievers with an admirable ability to see the ‘whole picture’ and a true love of family. The gemstone associated with Capricorn is ruby – and its deep, sumptuous colour reflects the depth of this complex sign.
£369
Are you a confident sales-professional with a proven track record, or do have the enthusiasm and personality to transfer your current skills to a sales role? Do you enjoy meeting new people and building long lasting customer relationships? If so, we want to hear from you!
Ruby necklace Available at H.S. Johnson
H.S. Johnson, 8 Anson Street, Rugeley, Staffordshire. WS15 2BB. Tel. 01889 583141 www.hsjohnson.com
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Rugeley will be getting in to the seasonal spirit on Friday 24th November, with late night Christmas shopping and festive fun on offer. With many shops and businesses in the town centre and Brewery Street Shopping Centre opening until 8pm, it’s the perfect opportunity to pick up the perfect Christmas gift for family and friends. Entertainment in the town starts at 2pm with a bucking reindeer in Brook Square, an ice skating rink in Market Square and snow machines throughout the town. Santa arrives in the Market Square at 5pm, when the lights will be switched on and the evening will end on a high note with a fireworks display at 8pm.
Could this be you?
£302.50
Ruby earings. Available at H.S. Johnson
Late Night Christmas Shopping in Rugeley
Citylife in Lichfield Ltd is looking for a sales professional to join the team – selling advertising space across our titles. This is a full time role, but a part time role may be also be possible for the right candidate. Attractive remuneration package plus commission offered. To apply, please email your CV to josscitylife@gmail.com before Friday 29th December.
Sewtastik
Sewtastik is run by experienced seamstress, Annette Kinsella and offers repairs and alterations to both ladies’ and gents’ clothing. As a family business, Sewtastik is committed to offering the very best service to every customer – no job is too small and a next day service is also available. Sewtastik can be found at Brewery Street Shopping Centre, 17 Brewery Street, Rugeley, WS15 2DY and there is free parking adjacent to the shop. For enquiries, please contact Annette on 07980 567423.
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A walk along the Heritage Trail at Slitting Mill By Kate Gomez
The Cannock Chase Heritage Trail runs from High Green in Cannock to Rugeley town centre via Hednesford and the ten mile walking and cycling route incorporates a number of sites of historic or environmental interest. Here, Kate Gomez explores the section of the trail which passes through Slitting Mill village, along the Rising Brook. At Slitting Mill, traces of a lost industry can be found reflected in the village’s name and in the surrounding waters. Horns Pool (also known as Dutton’s Pool), near to the pub of the same name, was created to drive the wheel at what is thought to have been the first slitting mill in the Midlands. The mill is believed to have been built by Thomas Chetwynd in the early 17th century and its purpose was to split sheets of iron in to rods using the power of water. The irons rods were then distributed to nail makers (many of whom were women and children working in their own homes) via ‘middle-men’ who would then buy back the nails. In the graveyard at Christchurch, Burntwood, there are a number of initialled stone anvils which would have been used by those involved in this cottage industry. Other than the pool, and the sluice gates along Rising Brook, no other traces of the mill are thought to remain. It was demolished in 1921 (and the South Staffordshire Waterworks pumping station, built in 1932 and the first of its kind to use electric pumps rather than steam engines, was built on the site). An interesting discovery was made when the mill was demolished - the British Numismatic Society Journal describes how: ‘An uncertain number of coins, said in one report to date from the seventeenth century, and in another to be of both that and the following century were found ‘in the walls’ of the Old Mill House when it was pulled down to make way for a new pumping station for the South Staffs Waterworks Company. It is not absolutely certain that these constituted a hoard; they may have been a number of stray coins.’ Alongside the mill was a cottage and the last inhabitants were Mary Sant and her husband William. The part of the brook which ran past their home became known as Sant’s Brook as Mary would provide refreshments for those who came to paddle and picnic there until the cottage was demolished in the 1930s. Other interesting features on this section of the trail include three stones believed to date to the later 18th or early 19th century and to mark the boundary with Rugeley and less obviously, several Bronze Age Burnt Mounds. These prehistoric monuments are often found alongside streams, and though their exact purpose is unknown, there are suggestions that these could be have been sites where our ancestors cooked, or perhaps even enjoyed a sauna! What is certain is that the Rising Brook has been drawing people to this site for thousands of years and with such a fascinating past and beautiful scenery, it will no doubt continue to do so. Sources: historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1396554 www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/custom/HeritageTrail/slitting_mill_ village.html The British Numismatic Journal: Including the Proceedings of the British Numismatic Society, Volume 40 thechasethroughtime.blogspot.co.uk/2017/04/ content.historicengland.org.uk/images-books/publications/ihaburnt-mounds/burntmounds.pdf/
70th Anniversary of the Association of the Friends of Cannock Chase
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he roots of the original Association of Friends of Cannock Chase can be traced back to 1934 when a fellow named Meshach Wright formed the society. Better known as Mac he was a distinguished gentleman who served on and chaired many committees in and around Cannock and wrote books about the district under his pen-name ‘Pitman’. He was extremely passionate about Cannock Chas, and with the beauty and history of the area - so much so that when he heard of the proposed demolition of Beaudesert Hall, the former home of the Marquis of Anglesey, he set up the first Friends of Cannock Chase to campaign against it being knocked down. Mac was appointed Chairman and Secretary of the Association but sadly the campaign was lost. However what it did do was to bring Cannock Chase wider publicity and put the area on the map. In 1937 the original ‘Friends’ were disbanded due the death of Mac who was only 58. The Association was reformed a couple of
years after the Second World War in 1947 due to the enthusiasm of Dr Peter Jennings, again campaigning but this time against the area being developed by the Military. The objectives of The Friends of Cannock Chase are the same now as they’ve always been and that is to promote conservation, preserve the unique character of the area, guard against residential and industrial encroachment and liaise with various other bodies such as the County Council, Forestry Commission and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Unit. With the government relaxing the laws and allowing companies to extract shale gas (known as fracking) on sites of outstanding natural beauty throughout England it becomes even more important that the Association gets involved in any future plans for our area. At present there are over eighty members and many volunteer their services to do conservation work in various parts of Cannock Chase, such as plant and moth
surveys, and woodland and heathland management in liaison with the Staffordshire Country and other Council organisations. A lot of this important work goes unseen by the general public but it’s all part of protecting the area for future generations to enjoy. The Association of Friends of Cannock Chase which is a voluntary organisation celebrated its seventieth anniversary in November and there are plans to set up displays in various locations such as libraries throughout the coming months. They also arrange walks and visits to places of interest throughout the year but very often it becomes more than just a social gathering, it’s also a history and nature lesson as the members who lead the walks are conversant with the area and often will hand out information sheets to those in attendance. Within the group there is also a photographic society and once a year the photos are aired and shared with other members. The current chair of The Association is June Jukes who was awarded a M.B.E for her tireless and enthusiastic work. New members are always welcome. More information about the Society can be found by accessing www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/friends
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Your Image Competition calling all photographers and artists!
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ver the coming months, we’d like to see your photographs, drawings and paintings of Cannock Chase and the surrounding area. Each month we’ll publish a new selection of the work received, and the final winning image (announced in the June 2018 issue) will receive a £100 prize and ‘Your Image’ Trophy. For terms and conditions see page 34. The competition is open to all ages. Photographs, paintings and drawings should be of Cannock Chase and the surrounding area and countryside. Please note that you should own the copyright to any image that you send in and the image should be your own
Cannock Chase by Laura Barnes
work. If sending in a photograph, please make sure that you have permission to submit the image from any individual who may be pictured in your work, and also appropriate permissions if the photograph was taken on private property. To enter, email your images to citylifecompetitions@gmail.com or post them to Your Image Competition, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. Apologies but we cannot return images sent to us, so if submitting a drawing or painting you may want to send us photographs of your work rather than original artwork.
Shugborough Sunset by Sue Smialowski
Copyright of these images remains with the creators and Citylife in Lichfield Ltd and they may not be reproduced by any unauthorised individual or organisation.
Cannock Chase by Laura Barnes
Armitage Canal by Henry Maj
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The Old Chancel by Keith Marriott
Christmas Cannock and District Ladies Probus News T By Jill Gooch
By Rotary Club of Rugeley
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he group has recently enjoyed entertaining talks from two excellent speakers. Bob Kermeen told us the story of Soraya, Empress of Iran, sometimes known as ‘The Sad Princess’. Soraya was married to the Shah of Persia in 1951 in a glittering wedding attended by 2,000 guests. Bob’s photographic montage showed a woman who had almost every detail of her life captured on camera. Following a vote of thanks to Bob, our Chair Pam Clarke welcomed new member Maureen Marsh, taking our total membership up to 61. During another meeting, Derek Poulson took us on a whistle stop tour of dialects from around the British Isles in his talk, ‘It’s not
what you say but the way that you say it’. Using Scottish, Irish, Welsh ‘up north’ and ‘down south’ accents, he explained how British language and speech has been influenced by invasions and working conditions. Derek’s talk was followed by a short business meeting and the celebratory cutting of the C&D Ladies Probus 24th birthday cake, which everyone enjoyed a slice of. Our meetings are held at The Chase Golf Club on the first Thursday of the month at 12 noon. Guests and prospective new members are very welcome. For further information, please contact the membership secretary on 01543 505107 or find us online at www.probusonline.org
lans are now well under way for our annual trip around the streets of Rugeley along with Father Christmas and Rotary and District Lions Club. The schedule appears on page 8 in this issue. Due to a falling membership we are urgently appealing for volunteers to help with the street collection. Anyone interested should contact us on our Facebook page, Rugeley Rotary.
We are very pleased to have recently enrolled Redbrook Hayes School Brereton as the latest school to join the Rotary Books4Home scheme. President Ron Ashley and V.P. John Wilson along with the scheme co-ordinator, Beverley Ricketts recently delivered the first consignment of books to Lorraine McCandless at the school. The school are very keen to encourage their pupils to read at home as well as at school and so the scheme is perfectly suited to this. They are planning to operate a book exchange scheme so that pupils can also make good use of their own unwanted books. Books4Home collect unwanted children’s books in good condition and then distribute them through schools for children to take home to keep or return as they wish. In the past two years, 20,000 books have been rehomed throughout Staffordshire, Shropshire and West Midlands via this scheme. Any school that is interested in taking part, or anyone with books that they would like to contribute, can contact us via our Facebook page, Rugeley Rotary. In September, we presented British Heart Foundation at their shop in Rugeley with a cheque for £500. This was the funds received for marshalling the Staffordshire Iron Man. Our crown green bowling team recently won the Rotary District final against Rotary Club of Ellesmere and were presented with the trophy from District Governor Carol Reilly. Inter club competitions take place throughout the year in a variety of popular sports. Anyone interested in joining us to take part in these and other Rotary activities can contact us at www.rugeleyrotary.org.uk.
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Your Image Competition
Continued Cannock Chase by Laura Barnes
View from the top of Etchinghill by Sian Brockhurst
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A view from Abbots Bromley looking toward Rugeley power station. Geoff Bishop
Goldfinches by Andy Pointon
A ladybird going for a stroll on a fern in Cannock Chase by Rebecca Jenkins
A Winter’s Evening by Geoff Bishop
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Rugeley Art Society
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he Rugeley Rose Theatre was temporarily transformed into a gallery, when the Rugeley Art Society held a showcase of their work at the end of October. Around 250 paintings were on display, all of which had been produced by members of the group, some of whom were exhibiting their paintings in public for the first time. The exhibition was well attended, with both members of the public and civic guests coming along to view the impressive range of local talent on display. The Art Society meets at the theatre every Wednesday evening, between 7.30pm and 9.30pm, and members enjoy expert guidance from local artist Derek Jones. Derek, a published artist, has been painting for 57 years - he was given his first box of oil paints for Christmas at the age of nine! For him, the sessions are about encouraging people to get involved in art. There is an emphasis on having fun and noone’s work is ever judged by anyone other than themselves.
Rugeley Remembers
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he sun shone on Sunday November 12th as the people of Rugeley came together to honour the fallen on Remembrance Sunday. An impressive turnout made this a moving commemoration.
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The art classes are run in association with Rugeley Town Council and are free to attend. With members ranging from school children to octogenarians, the society has no age limit and welcomes people of all abilities, from complete beginners to experienced artists. Anyone interested in joining the group can pop along to the next Wednesday night meeting, or call 01889 584036 for more information. Derek Jones, Barbara Truman and Chairman of Rugeley Town Council, Cllr Ian Hodgson
Mr B’s Upholstery
Advertisement Feature
Advertisement Feature
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r B’s Upholstery, Cannock, are specialists in upholstery and reupholstery. They can transform your upholstered furniture, turning an old chair or sofa into a stunning piece to be treasured for years to come. Are you considering purchasing new chairs, sofas or soft furnishings for your home? Why not talk to Mr B’s, who have years of experience in the transformation of well-loved and used furniture, bringing them back to life for a fraction of the cost of replacing old furniture for new.
The lovely people at Mr B’s are friendly, approachable and knowledgeable and can offer free, no obligation advice and quotes. They’re a local, family company who are dedicated to providing the very best service possible. In addition to their reupholstery services of sofas, chairs, foot-stools, dining furniture, headboards etc, Mr B’s upholstery are also experienced in upholstery for caravans, camper vans and ‘rock n roll’ beds. Their years of experience also mean that they can offer top quality car re-trims and commercial re-upholstery for pubs, clubs, salons, care homes and restaurants. Mr B’s Upholstery also manufacture high quality furniture and bespoke items. For a no obligation chat, call 01543 500677, or visit their Facebook page for more information. Mr B’s Upholstery can be found at Unit 5 West Cannock Way, Walkers Rise, Rugeley Road, Hednesford, Cannock WS12 0QU.
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Blush Lingerie Boutique
lush Lingerie Boutique, Rugeley, offers a great range of exquisite lingerie, nightwear and swimwear from leading brands such as Fantasie, Freya, Elomi, Charnos, Lepel, Wonderbra, Naturana and more. With over 17 years’ experience in the business, owner Alison offers a friendly professional fitting service with a large private changing room and aims to create a perfect balance between comfort and fit to transform the feel and look of your clothes. Call in for a no obligation chat and browse through their fantastic ranges of both fashion and everyday items. Blush also stocks a fantastic selection of scarves and accessories including hosiery to suit all tastes with a gift wrapping service available to complete your purchase. Gift vouchers are available all year round and in-store after hours private parties are very popular, simply get together with a minimum of three friends or family and enjoy a professional fitting in a relaxed environment whilst enjoying a catch up with the girls. You will receive a complimentary glass of fizz and 15% discount on all purchases on the night. If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift, pop in to Blush! Blush Lingerie Boutique can be found at 23a Market Square, Rugeley. Call 01889 582947 or go to their Facebook page for more information. Open Monday to Saturday (closed Wednesday but can open by appointment).
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Lions Approach Busiest Time of the Year
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By Rugeley & District Lions
ugeley and District Lions are approaching their busiest time over the Christmas period and are hoping that local people will help us to make this another successful year. We are once again appealing for toys to help needy children this Christmas with our Christmas Toy Appeal starting on Monday 13th November. Unwrapped new or unused toys can be handed in at authorised drop off points at St Josephs Community Centre, Lichfield Street (during weekend opening hours); Tesco, Power Station Road, Rugeley and Gymophobics, Market Street, Rugeley. All donations need to be received by Sunday 10th December when they will be taken by Rugeley Lions to The Salvation Army Christmas Toy Service for distribution to children who would otherwise receive nothing
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Santa and his Elves will be in the Grotto at Wyevale Garden Centre on Saturdays and Sundays starting December 2nd to Saturday December 23rd, between 10.30am and 3pm approximately. He will provide toys for the children or just a photo opportunity (for all ages!) in consideration of a modest donation. If you want to bring a group outside normal times, this can be arranged, contact the Lions through social media or email at randdlions@hotmail.com Once again Santa has asked Rugeley Lions and Rugeley Rotary Clubs to escort him around the Rugeley area to meet the children, both young and old. The Christmas Float routes have been picked and you can see is in this magazine on page 8. The tour starts on Monday 4th December and finishes Friday 15th December. Hopefully you will all come out to wave and cheer Santa on his merry way. Up to date
The Ridwares W.I. By Dot Boulton
efore the formal meeting commenced, The Ridwares W.I. welcomed Fran Locker, representing Ridwares Against HS2, who revealed HS2 plans to use the main road through Hill Ridware as a construction road, with 376 large haulage lorries per day passing through. Furthermore, hedgegrows and established oak trees were to be obliterated to facilitate this. This was followed by Byron Lewis, Proprietor of Lichfield Garden Centre, then took the floor to advise the ladies on plants to add colour and interest throughout the Autumn and Winter seasons. After taking questions from the floor, he judged the competition 'A Vase of Garden Foliage' which was won by Karen Wakefield. Several members attended Staffordshire
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over Christmas. This is the fourth year of the Toy Collection and over 1100 toys have been collected in the past thanks to the generosity of the people of Rugeley and we are looking to repeat that favourable result again this Christmas. Please help us put smiles on faces. For further details please contact Lion Deb Coburn on 07970380746
Federation W.I. Annual Council Meeting at The County Showground and were very pleased to learn that The Ridwares W.I. had been awarded the Freda Houldcroft Trophy for the best design of a W.I. Welcome Card. Credit must go to Gaye Tayler for her superb design skills! The next meeting of The Ridwares W.I. will be on Tuesday, 21st November, when 'A Members' Craft Evening' will be held. The annual Tinsel and Trimmings Evening will be held on Thursday, 30th November, commencing at 6.30pm. Featuring Brass Band, Choir, Cake Stall, Mulled Wine and Mince Pies. The Christmas lights will be lit at 7pm. Everyone is welcome! New W.I. members are always welcome. Just come along or telephone 01543 492136 for details.
information will be found on the Facebooks of both Clubs nearer the date. We would like to thank Waymax for the donation of the lorry, 50-50 for allowing us to park Santa’s sleigh for the duration and to PRS for donating the licence to play music in public.
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A Guide to Lasting Powers of Attorney
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By Richard Wells, Managing Partner at Philips Legal Solicitors
ccessing someone’s finances if they become incapacitated or ill is a complex and protracted process, which could make things very difficult for a spouse, partner or children. Bills could go unpaid and if cash is needed for any purpose, it would be inaccessible. Setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows someone that you trust to act on your behalf should the need arise. Your chosen person can then manage your affairs in your best interests. This could be in the long term or until such time that you are able to take up the reins again yourself. There are two types of LPA, both of which Philips Legal Solicitors can help you with. A Property and Affairs LPA This allows your nominated person to: • Manage your finances and property • Make sure your bills are paid • Make decisions about your assets
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A Health and Welfare LPA This allows your nominated person to: • Make decisions about your medical treatment • Decide whether it’s best for you to continue to live at home or whether residential care would be more appropriate If you haven’t set up an LPA, your loved ones may have to pay out a lot of money on your behalf. The Court of Protection would have to appoint a deputy to manage your affairs, which is both time-consuming and costly. An LPA will avoid the distress of a delay and also preserve your assets to pay for the care you may need in the future. With Philips Legal Solicitors, setting up an LPA is a pretty straightforward process. Simply call us free on 0800 228 9988 and we will happily give you more details or arrange a meeting.
Happily-ever-afters from Rugeley Welfare for dogs Flo and Lola are slowly becoming best friends
Luther was handed in to the rescue
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Bobby spent a while in kennels before finding his forever home
This lovely guy was a stray and found in a bad way
Max was handed in to the rescue as his previous owners couldn’t cope
Staffy Jess was found as a stray
his month, the team at Rugeley Welfare for Dogs bring us some festive cheer with more of their success stories. All of the pooches pictured above came to the charity with their own story but Ruth and Pauline have made sure that these dogs’ tales have a happy ending. Max, Bobby, Jess, Flo, Lola and Luther have all now been found their forever homes and will be enjoying the first of many Christmases with their new owners.
For more information on Rugeley Welfare for Dogs, or if you think you could offer a new home to a dog in need of re-homing, then please call Ruth on 07900 090993 or Pauline on 07971 817877. Alternatively visit facebook.com/rugeleydogswelfare. Please note that a home check and a donation will be required.
Why do computers slow down over time? By Neil Fletcher
Remember the awe you felt when you turned on your new computer and it loaded in a flash? Your computer was the envy of your friends and you weren’t afraid to bathe in that glory. Button on, ready to go, those were the days! After a year or two though, it doesn’t seem to be quite as zippy… no, you’re not imagining it. It really has slowed down, not just in comparison to newer models and your expectations. There’s a measurable drop in speed and power that has nothing to do with worn out parts. The good news is a little maintenance can have that baby cruising at top speed again. Let’s take a leisurely walk through the system and spot the culprits: Start-up applications: It’s super convenient to have Skype start automatically and your antivirus too. In fact, many of the applications starting themselves with the computer are essential to your experience. But some of them
are getting a little too ‘helpful’. For example, iTunes helper loads in the background to speed things up when you connect your device – but if you can’t even remember the last time you ran iTunes on your computer, then it can go. Programs like that are holding on to a portion of your processing power and adding to your speed issues. The average home computer automatically loads around 75 programs at startup! Temporary junk: Computers are kind of messy. They leave temporary files and snippets of information all over your hard drive, each action leaving a trail rather like a roaming toddler with a sticky sandwich. Every webpage, every image on that webpage, every program you run and every game you play leaves something behind. It may be the tidbits of information called “cookies”, saved game files, auto-restore files or even a log so that you can hit the undo button 100 times while it remembers your actions for you. The more junk your computer builds up, the slower it gets.
Viruses and malware: These infections sit in the background consuming resources while doing various nightmarish things. They may be spying on your actions, stealing your information or reaching out through your network to infect others. Occasionally, the impact is limited to seeing your computer slow to a crawl, however the flow-on financial costs of an infection can easily reach into the thousands. Bloating: With every new version of software comes a new set of features, introductory sequences and design improvements. The problem with this is the application becomes larger and larger with each new version, requiring more system resources to install and run – and slowing your computer down. Just like a car, computers need regular maintenance – click IT – Computer Solutions offer a Tune-Up service to bring your computer back to its original speed and extend its life. Give us a call at ClickIT 01889 579 990 to book a computer Tune-up!
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£215
£65
£60
ChloBo MR2733 Women's Inner Love Set of two Rings. Available at H.S. Johnson.
Rachel Galley BB300-SV-LG Women's Bubbly Ring. Available at H.S. Johnson.
£5,995 A Stunning 18ct white gold dress ring set with three carats of diamonds £5,995. Available at City Jewellers Range of scarves and accessories including purses, makeup bags and glasses cases. Prices from £4 to £8. Available from Blush Lingerie Boutique
Bra £26, thong £11 and short £14. Available from Blush Lingerie Boutique
Wolf 301002 Chloe Medium Jewellery Case. Available at H.S. Johnson.
£17.50
Satzuma Gold Bar Mouse. Available from Click IT
Perfect Christmas Gifts for Her Our area is home to so many great, independent shops, and we’ve been out exploring so we can bring you our selection of perfect Christmas gifts for women.
Bras £30 and briefs £14. All available from Blush Lingerie Boutique
From £165 Shaun Leane tusk earrings, available in silver or gold vermeil in three sizes. Available at City Jewellers
£3,995
from £9.99
Ladies Christmas Gift Box filled with contents of your choice. Available from The Little Wool Shop
18ct white gold wide dress ring, pave set with two carats of diamonds. Available at City Jewellers
£48.50
1930s Shelley Primrose Coffee Set consisting of coffee pot, five cups and saucers, sugar bowl and cream jug. Available from Decodance
£14.79
Boxed China Teapot. Available from Keeren’s Kardz
£25
£10
£5.49
Shoulder Bag. Available from AJ’s Closet
£7.49 Lavender Jug: £5.49 and Tulip Jug: £7.49. Available from Keeren’s Kardz
£95
£120
9ct diamond and tanzanite Snowflake on a 9ct gold chain. Available from MW Jewellery & Repairs
£95
£45
Amber Sterling Silver Ring. Available from MW Jewellery & Repairs
Jewellery Box. Available from Poppies Vintage Shabby Chic
Dressing Table Mirror. Available from Poppies Vintage Shabby Chic
£67.50
£24.95
14ct gold earrings. Available from MW Jewellery & Repairs
Acer Iconia Tab 8W. Available from Click IT
£14.95
£55
Reconstituted opal and cubic zirconia Sterling Silver ring (other styles available) Available from MW Jewellery & Repairs
£35
Sterling Silver oversized heart pendant with freshwater pearls. Available from MW Jewellery & Repairs Gift Vouchers for Furniture Painting Workshop with French Chic paint. Poppies Vintage Shabby Chic
9ct cubic zirconia heart on a 9ct gold twist chain. Available from MW Jewellery & Repairs
£125
£50 French Art Nouveau wall plaque. Available from Decodance
French Art Deco lady lamp. Available from Decodance
Stockists: H.S. Johnson, 8 Anson Street, Rugeley, Staffordshire. WS15 2BB. Tel. 01889 583141 www.hsjohnson.com City Jewellers, 39 Market Street, Market Square, Lichfield, WS13 6LA, 01543 416412 Blush Lingerie Boutique, 23a Market Square, Rugeley, WS15 2BN MW Jewellery and Repairs, Unit 1B, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley, WS15 2DY Decodance, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley, WS15 2DY Click IT, Unit 26, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley, WS15 2DY Keeren’s Kardz, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley, WS15 2DY The Little Wool Shop, Unit 1B, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley, WS15 2DY
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MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTORS WANTED
Earn extra money delivering magazines in various areas. Must be over 16
Call Marie 07548 682576
Competition and Prize Draw Terms and Conditions 1. By entering the prize draw/competition, you agree to the terms and condition stated. 2.The closing date is stated on each individual prize draw or competition. 3.Where stated in the competition that a clearly stated competition partner will contact the entrants after the competition with news, stories and offers, entrant’s contact details will be passed to this competition partner for these marketing purposes only. As stated in the competition/prize draw, if you do not wish to receive marketing information from the competition partner stated, please add the words OPT OUT to your entry. For a copy of Citylife in Lichfield Ltd’s privacy policy please write to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. 4.By entering the competition/prize draw, entrants agree to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd using or publishing materials provided by the entrants in any of their publications and online. 5.Citylife in Lichfield Ltd accepts no responsibility for any breach of copyright or breach of any other legislation entailed by entrants in their creation or submission of materials. 6.Only one entry per prize draw/competition, per reader. 7.Except in the case of cash prizes, no cash equivalent will be offered and the prize
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is non-transferable. 8.All prizes are subject to availability and the prize suppliers' terms and conditions. 9.No purchase necessary. 10.Prize draws and competitions are only open to UK residents aged 18 years or over (unless otherwise stated). 11.Competitions and prize draws may not be entered by any employee or individual associated with any employee, agent or third party of Citylife in Lichfield Ltd. 12.Winners will be selected at random in the case of applicable prize draws and competitions, or by an independent judge in the case of photographic/art/applicable competitions from all entries received. 13.Winners will be notified by Citylife in Lichfield Ltd up to 28 days after the closing date of the competition/prize draw by the contact details provided by the entrant. 14.A list of the surnames and county of residence of the winners will be available by writing to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd no earlier than six weeks after the competition closing date. 15.When the prize draw/competition winner has been selected, this decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 16.Citylife in Lichfield Ltd accepts no responsibility for the prize being lost, damaged or delayed in transit. When the prize is provided by a third party, Citylife in Lichfield
Ltd accepts no responsibility for any change to the prize, or for the quality of the prize provided. 17.Competitions may be amended or withdrawn at any time. 18.By entering the competition or prize draw, you agree to having your name, (photograph, where stated) and city or county of residence published in any of Citylife in Lichfield Ltd’s publications and online. 19.Unless otherwise stated, the promoter is Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. 20. Citylife in Lichfield Ltd do not express any warranty or endorsement of any competition prize, information, service or product provided in connection with a competition by printing or otherwise publicising any competition. 21.To the full extent of the law, Citylife in Lichfield Ltd shall not be liable for any loss, claim, punitive, indirect, incidental or consequential damages of any kind incurred as a result of entering this prize draw or competition. 22.By submitting photos, text or artworks as part of competition/prize draw entries you agree that you own these photos text or artworks, that it is your original work to which you own all rights to distribute, and that your entry is accurate, moral and legal.
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