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June 2017 12 20
Inside...
12 A Window on the Past
A walk through the history of Brereton 20 Looking for Rugeley’s Cutest Pet
Is your pet Rugeley’s cutest?
24 Rugeley Welfare for Dogs
Helping our four-legged friends 26 The Victorian Walled
Kitchen Garden By Barry Walker
28 Gifts for Dad
Father’s Day inspiration
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Welcome to CITYLIFE
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
Advertising-
Steve Brown 07740 166497 stevebrowncitylife@gmail.com Karen Wraxton 07791 635019 kaz.citylife@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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Cannock and District Ladies Probus’ Annual Lunch
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By Jill Gooch
he Annual Lunch was held at The Chase Golf Club with 85 members attending, including members and Chairmen Peter Arnold, Sheila Yard, and Paul Snape of other Probus in the region. The event which was for the second year, proved to be an enjoyable success in the leadership of Chairman Pam Clarke. Grace was said by Margaret Thompson; and a Toast to Absent Friends was given by Vice-Chairman Sheila Burrows. The speaker Roger Browne from Stockport Probus delivered light entertainment in the form of his individual style of jazz and musical theatre in a ‘Journey from New Orleans to New York’. Roger’s interpretation of Gershwin, Jerome Kerr and Scott Joplin, were interspersed with anecdotes and explanations. Del Johnson gave the vote of thanks. Thanks were also conveyed to the organisers: in particular Barbara Bowman. After a three course meal and entertainment, guests had the opportunity to win one of 20 raffle prizes. The next meeting will be held at The Chase on Thursday 1st June at 12 noon. For further information contact membership secretary 01543 505107 and www.probusonline.org
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First Responders Afternoon Tea
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Charity Afternoon Tea Event was held at St Joseph's Community Centre, Rugeley, on the 1st April in aid of Rugeley and District Community First Responders. Fay Cotton Cooper, community first responder commented: “We had wonderful support off local businesses including the Snug Coffee and Tea Emporium, Lottie Ann Vintage China Hire, Finishing Touches Chair Cover Hire and St Joseph's Community Centre to name a few as well as an endless list of local businesses and people who donated fabulous raffle prizes to us! “Seventy four local people purchased tickets, our responders provided table service and the event was a massive success as everyone had a fabulous time and we managed to raise £1,135 for Rugeley and District Community First Responders. As we are a registered charity and all of our responders are volunteers these fundraising events help raise our profile and provide vital funds to allow us to continue to respond to the local community in their time of need. Thank you once again to the local community for your continued support and to Citylife for their help publicising the event.” For more information on Rugeley and District First Responders to go their Facebook page or visit www.radcfr.com
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Rugeley & District Lions Club Update By Peter Fielding
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t was interesting to read the article in last month’s Citylife on Rising Brook as this is where we hold our Duck Race - this year’s being held on Saturday 8th July. When we first obtained permission to use the brook we were informed it was actually a river! As promised last month, we can now announce that tickets for the Duck Race are now available from the following outlets in Rugeley Town: Creature Comforts, Starstruck Costumes (Brewery Street Market), Brewery Street Cafe, Caketins, Cake Emporium, Holly’s Cafe (Rugeley Indoor Market), Floral Studios and Gymophobics. We thank all these people for their support. Hopefully we will also be present at Wyevale Garden Centre on Tuesday afternoons. In April four members assisted the British Legion at the annual ANZAC. Members were also present helping out with car parking duties at a recent Cannock Motocross and we are looking at the possibility of assisting at the Staffordshire Ironman competition. We certainly get around! A presentation of cheques for £500 was made to two students from Hagley Park School who are due to take part in a school expedition to Cambodia helping local communities – especially children. We had agreed to support them in exchange for their help in our Service and Fundraising activities working towards a Young Lions in Service Award. If you would like to come along and join in with us to see exactly what we do (and how we do it) we can be contacted via Facebook or e-mail at randdlions@hotmail.com . You are assured a warm welcome.
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A Window on the Past
A Walk Through the History of Brereton
This month we take a look at the history of Brereton through these wonderful pictures from the Landor Society who told Citylife that: “Much of the material for this month’s history page is taken from ‘Reflections of Brereton and Ravenhill’ by Harry Thornton (available to purchase from Brereton Parish Hall). The Landor Society is grateful to Mr Thornton for permission to use his research. “Brereton civil and ecclesiastical parishes have a convoluted history, which is explained in detail in Harry Thornton’s booklet. Many think of Brereton as part of Rugeley, but the former mining village still retains its sense of community, despite the changes of the past seventy years or so.” 1. These thatched cottages (that stood in Coalpit Lane) were unfortunately burnt down in around 1908. 2. Brereton’s War Memorial, unveiled in 1922 by Col. W.A Wetherall. 3. The Cedar Tree Hotel, with its cedar tree. It was originally built c.1820 as a private residence known as Cedar Tree Lodge. 4. The Main Road, looking towards Rugeley. The building with the ‘church’ window is the school built in the 1890s and latterly known as St Michael’s C of E Primary School. It replaced a school built in 1826 by the Misses Sneyd. The low building is a remnant of that school. The row of cottages was demolished in the 1960s.
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5. This image shows the Main Road again, this time looking towards Lichfield. 6. The County Branch Library opened in July 1960, and replaced the mobile library service. It was itself replaced by a new building adjoining Redbrook Hayes School. The trees on either side were gifts to the people of Brereton by Brereton Guides and Brownies and St Michael’s Youth Club. 7. An Edwardian view of St Michael’s church. 8. Ravenhill House, the reputedly haunted 18th century building which during the First World War was used as an Auxiliary Military Hospital for convalescing soldiers. In 1948 it was rented by British Electronic Products (later Lancashire Dynamo and then Thorn Automation). It was demolished in 1993.
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.landorlocalhistorysociety-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.
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Collecting Medals and Militaria By Nick Thompson, Medal Valuation Consultant at Richard Winterton Auctioneers
here are so many areas for the collector and enthusiast these days, but in my opinion, none offers as much scope as Military Medals and Militaria. When it comes to Military Medals, the world is your oyster and you can build a collection that represents our Military History, in so many ways, no matter how deep your pockets. Take for example the collecting area of World War One medals. Over 6.5 million medals were struck, representing all branches of our Forces. Collectors often specialise in battles, actions, regiments, dates, casualties, rare units etc. As an example of this, a medal relating to a soldier who was killed in action on 1st July 1916 (the first day of the Battle of the Somme) from a sought-after Regiment (for example, the North Staffordshire Regiment) could realise easily in excess of £500 at auction. If you were to add the fallen soldier’s Memorial Death Plaque, and the parchment scroll, the price goes way above £750. The same collecting areas apply to most of the wars and conflicts that British Forces have been involved with over the years. Often medals relating to servicemen or women who paid the ultimate price during these conflicts attain higher prices at auction than those of serving personnel who survived.
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Militaria items too are very well collected, and go hand in hand with medals. At Richard Wintertons Auctioneers we see items, from the quite common, to the extremely rare. Sometimes vendors have the provenance of such items which may have belonged to a family member, or written ephemera which adds value at auction. From swords, daggers, firearms to military equipment, we see them all. As in all cases, condition is vital. We recently acted in the sale of an archive from a retired Major in the British Army. Over the years, many items had been accumulated including books, prints, uniform items, badges, etc. We were fortunate enough to receive great interest from the bidding public, and many prices were achieved in excess of guide prices. What about Medals and Militaria from other countries I hear you ask? I probably see more Imperial German and ‘Nazi’ medals and badges than any other country after UK forces. The German market however is a tricky one due to the existence of so many copies and fake items that flood the market. It can be very difficult to distinguish the genuine item from a copy, but again with time and a little research we are in the main able to offer the vendor an accurate guide price for items placed into sale.
What strikes me about medals is that there is always a story behind the name and rank impressed or engraved around the rim. It’s the collector that finds out that story, and in this way the recipient of the medal lives on. If you have any medals or military items that you would like valued, please look out for our regular Valuation Days at Fradley Park, and come and see us, you may be pleasantly surprised with what you may have.
Free valuations every Tuesday from 9.30am to 4pm at the Lichfield Auction Centre, Wood End Land, Fradley Park, Lichfield, WS13 8NF. Free valuations on Mondays 12th June, 26th Jun at The Trinity Center, Mill Street, Sutton Coldfield, B72 1TF, 2pm to 3.30pm.
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Cutest Pet Competition Citylife in Rugeley’s
Cutie of the Month! Congratulations to Lola, Citylife in Rugeley’s Cutie of the month for June! Lola’s owner Kerry told Citylife: “She loves nothing more than sunbathing, plastic bottles, chasing people's feet and having cream on her belly.”
Tag - Tag is owned by Gaynor
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Skye - Skye is owned by Lesley
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his is the last instalment of Citylife in Rugeley’s Cutest Pet before the winner is announced in the July issue! This has been without doubt one of the most enjoyable competitions we have ever run here at Citylife. We have loved seeing pictures of your pets - thank you to everyone who has sent in their pictures. We think that every one of your furry and feathered friends is just gorgeous. If you haven’t done so yet, and you want to submit your pet pics to the competition, you still have time. As long as we receive them by 31st May 2017, they can still be considered for the top prize of £100! The July issue is out on Saturday 15th June where we’ll announce the final winner of Citylife in Rugeley’s Cutest Pet 2017! To enter your pet into the competition, send your pet pics to citylifecompetitions@gmail.com or post them to Citylife in Rugeley Pet Competition, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. Please clearly mark your entry ‘Citylife in Rugeley’s Cutest Pet’ and tell us a little bit about them. Apologies but we can’t return pictures posted to us. For terms and conditions see page 34.
Daisy - Daisy’s owners Pat and Karen told Citylife: She's a two year old Cavachon. Her Mum was a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and her dad was a Bichon Frise. She is exceptionally well natured, loving, protective and playful. She enjoys her walks on The Chase and at the seaside but does not like getting her fur wet.”
Dodger - Dodger is owned by Tracey who told Citylife: “He's playful and so cuddly and loves his belly tickled.”
Teddy - Teddy is owned by Chelsea
Winston - Winston is owned by Astrid
Bat Walk
Join Staffordshire Bat Group for a guided Bat Walk around the Wolseley Centre’s stunning grounds on Saturday 15th July from 9pm till 11pm The walk will be preceded by a short talk and introduction to bat detectors. Proceeds raised will go towards the work of Staffordshire Bat Group and Staffordshire Wildlife Trust. Price/donation of £3. Booking is essential. The Wolseley Centre, Stafford near Rugeley, Staffordshire, ST17 0WT Tel: 01889 880100.
Our Community Needs You!
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ommunity Engagement Support Services (better known as CESS) is a local voluntary organisation which serves Rugeley and The Chase by offering support and help on a not for profit basis. Currently CESS is involved with a befriending scheme for the elderly and vulnerable and a signposting service to address individual needs. It’s also working with youngsters in local schools and is involved with summer activities and the Christmas Lantern Parade plus a weekly youth club for young people with learning difficulties. CESS has only been working in the community for the last five years but in recognition of their achievements they have been awarded the prestigious Queen's Award for Voluntary Service. There are ambitious plans for the future but CESS needs you to help: • by serving on the committee which convenes once a month, and, if prepared, to take on the responsibilities of the chairperson or treasurer • by being an active volunteer All our staff and volunteers will have enhanced DBS clearance and will be given an induction course so if you can spare a few hours why not come and join this award winning team? For further information contact Key Worker Kitty Leech on 01889 358402/07734 596693, email info@cess.org.uk or visit them on Facebook.
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Cutest Pet Cont... Citylife in Rugeley’s
Betsy, Buffy and Binx - Betsy, Buffy and Binx are owned by Steff Matilda - Matilda’s owner Karen told Citylife: “She is a six months old French Bulldog crossed with a Pug. She loves her run on the field and chewing her favourite toy bear.”
Charlie - Charlie is nine weeks old and is owned by Karen
Rugeley Rugby Club Family Reunion Day
Roxy - Roxy is a dumbo rat who loves eating peas and is owned by Maisy.
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2017 will mark Rugeley Rugby Club’s 70th anniversary. To mark this occasion a number of club members are putting together a ‘Family Reunion Day’ anniversary event on Saturday 5th August at ROSA’s St Augustine’s field (situated at the back of St Augustine's church). The day will start at approximately 2pm and every ex and current member is invited, along with their family members, children and friends. The event is admission free, and the club are aiming to provide lots of activities to
Eddie - Eddie is four months old and owned by the Holbrook family.
take place on the day including a bar serving some traditional beers; a kids’ sweet shop; BBQ; kids’ fun area (to include face painting and bouncy castle) plus a photo booth, classic cars and scooters display and lots more. The event is a family reunion day where past and present members and friends can share a drink and talk about old and current times etc. We are encouraging members to bring their children and families. A highlight of the day will be a tug-of-war competition, and Rugeley Rugby Club are
looking for teams to take part – so if your pub or club would like to put a team together go to rugeleyrugby70th@outlook.com to register your interest. Many Rugeley Rugby Club players have gone on to play for well-known clubs such as Moseley Rugby Club and Leicester Rugby Club. One of Rugeley Rugby Club’s founder members was the Earl of Shrewsbury, and the club has welcomed many guest players including Terry Cobner, who went on to play and Captain for Wales and the British Lions. Mick Novakovic, member of Rugeley Rugby Club commented: “There are ex-players coming from all over the place to attend this event including Ireland, Spain and France, as well as from all over the UK. We are currently trying to arrange to let every ex and current member have a memento for this occasion that will be given out on the day. As well as ensuring everybody has a great day we are hoping to make as much money as we can to help facilitate the future of the club especially helping the younger members. This year was a great year for the playing side with the 1st team winning the Rubery Owen Cup Final and finishing fourth in the Midlands Division 4 West (North).” For more information go to: rugeleyrugby70th@outlook.com
A Rugeley Success Story
PW Installations, established in October 2000, are a small, caring local business based in Rugeley. From day one their ethos has been to supply the very best products at the right price and expertly fitted complete with after sales back up. They come highly recommended. Whether it's doors, windows or conservatories, PW don't use salespeople or high pressure sales tactics. Paul, the owner, will visit your home to discuss their products, and find the best solutions to match your requirements. You will normally be given a quote on the first visit (except for conservatory projects). A written quote will then be emailed to you, and you will be left to make your decision with no further phone calls. Contact them for a free no obligation quote on 07815 110415. PW Installations can be found at Unit 22 Lea Hall Enterprise Park, Wheelhouse Road, Rugeley, WS15 1LH. www.pwinstallations.net
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Rugeley Welfare for Dogs
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By Joss Musgrove Knibb
ecently, Citylife in Rugeley’s editor Joss Musgrove Knibb interviewed Pauline Roberts and Ruth Dewis of Rugeley Welfare for Dogs about the fantastic work that they do helping the ‘four legged friends’ of our region. J.M.K: Can you tell me about Rugeley Welfare for Dogs? P.R: We set the charity up ourselves 11 years ago. It started really just from a couple of conversations. We both work at Armitage Shanks, and one day we got into conversation there with someone who’d got some spare dog bedding and asked us if we knew where they could take it. Then someone else asked if we could maybe rehome their dog and it escalated from there. R.D: We help people to rehome their dog and in 10 years we’ve found new homes for over 600 dogs. Ordinarily, there’s a good chance that these dogs might have ended up in dog shelters. They might even have been put down. There’s lots of reasons why someone might ask us to help them rehome their dog. They might having health or financial difficulties; or a marriage split up. We’ve seen some very sad circumstances. It can be heart-breaking. J.M.K: How do you go about rehoming dogs? P.R: When someone contacts us asking if we can rehome their dog, we ask about the dog and then we check our book that contains all of the details of people who have told us they want a dog. Then we go and meet and assess the dog and ask questions like ‘are they good with cats and children or do they need training?’ We then match the dog up with people that want that size and temperament of dog. So our book is full of people who want a dog - and we see people who need to rehome their dogs and then we pair them up. R.D: Also we’ve got two websites that we advertise dogs that need rehoming on. If we think we’ve got a dog and a possible new owner that might match we arrange for a meeting between the dog, the old owners and the new owner. We also have a lady called Eileen who fosters dogs for us. J.M.K: How is Rugeley Welfare for Dogs funded? R.D: The main way that we spend any money raised is through veterinary costs so we fundraise
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very hard to get monies in to help a dog that needs an operation. This isn’t always so that the dog can then be rehomed. We’re helping a gentleman at the minute who absolutely adores his dog and it needs an operation and he’s just run out of funds, so he’s turned to us for help. That way we can help keep the dog at home where it belongs. We try to help the owners too. We ask for a £40 donation to rehome a dog and we spend that money on vets bills and surgery. Veterinary bills are our biggest expense, as we like all dogs to be spayed, and we have to often start vaccinations from scratch too. We also buy bowls, bedding, collars and lead so that some new owners can have a pack to get started with. We take no wage from it at all, and we pay for our own petrol, raffle books etc. P.R: We’ve met some amazing people doing what we do and made some very good friends. People donate items that we can sell at car boots and raffles, and they help us do fundraising. All the pet shops in Rugeley are very good and Number 1 Vets in Rugeley gives us discounts with operations and things. We like to make sure that any dog we have rehomed goes to the new owners spayed and with any medical problems sorted out. Getting this done for the dog is our greatest expense and its where most of the money raised fundraising goes. P.R: I retire this year work from Armitage Shanks who have been very good, they set up the website for us. If we stopped tomorrow I don’t know what would happen to all these dogs and people. We try to help the new owners too when they’ve taken on a new dog. We’re always at the end of the phone for advice and help. Also, we have behaviourists who can help try to sort out a dog with a problem to try to stop the needing rehoming in the first place. We cover all aspects of welfare for dogs. J.M.K: Where do the dogs stay where they’re waiting to be rehomed?
P.R: We don’t keep the dog that needs rehoming at our home. The dog stays with its owner and we advertise it or try to match it up with someone wanting a dog – so the dog goes from one home to another. Sometimes once a dog gets into kennels it can worsen any behavioural problem it might have. Some dogs just don’t react well to kennels so we try to avoid it. Sometimes a dog that’s been in kennels can be tricky for them to rehome and they ask us to step in and see if we can help. We’ve got a good rehoming rate, we don’t succeed every time but I would say it’s 85 to 90%. R.D: We do see some very sad cases. One of our local kennels is very good and if we need to put a dog in for a little while they will let us, while the owner who’s struggling can get their circumstances right again so that their dog can come back to them. A lot of people help us – Armitage Shanks, and lots of local people who we know round here now. Cash 4 Clothes Rugeley is also very good. They give us blankets, towels etc for bedding and we collect it and take it to various kennels and whoever needs it.
Watch out for up and coming issues of Citylife where we’ll be printing a selection of dogs who are looking for new homes. For more information go to Facebook, www.rugeleywelfarefordogs.co.uk or Rugeleydogswelfare.webs.com
* T&C’s apply
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The Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden
By Barry Walker of the Landor Society
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he 19th century was the heyday of the walled garden that lasted up to the First World War. After the war the world of the large country estates started to change and with it the slow demise of that horticultural gem.
Move on to the mid twentieth century. Many great estates have been broken up and sold off; the stately homes demolished or turned into a hotel, with many of those left struggling to survive. In all this turmoil many walled gardens became overgrown and neglected; home to long grass, grazing sheep and chickens. A lost world of horticultural excellence where innovation and experience went hand in hand to produce food fifty-two weeks a year in all weathers for the estate.
In the Rugeley area we had estates that had walled gardens, among them: Armitage Lodge; Bellamour Hall; Blithfield Hall; Beaudesert Hall; Bishton Hall; Kings Bromley Manor; Shugborough Hall and Wolseley Hall. Each garden would be ruled by a head gardener, who in many cases was equal in status to the butler.
The walled garden at Shugborough Hall is a good example of the design and scope of a large kitchen garden. It was designed by Samuel Wyatt and built in 1805 as part of the second phase of an ambitious development of the estate by Thomas, 1st Viscount Anson. By 1817 the glass houses were producing such fruits as grapes, peaches, figs - and the most prized fruit, pineapples.
In the early years the head gardener was a Mr W. Nicol, who had a staff of about twenty who worked six days a week, with an average pay of 1s 8d (20p) per day. In 1847 the area of the
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walled garden was reduced by the building of the Trent Valley Railway which cut across the southwest corner of the garden. The development was strongly opposed by the Earl of Lichfield and compensation was paid for the ‘Injury to the Residence’ to the sum of £30,000.
The records show that from 1857 to 1858 the head gardener was a Mr. Williams. It was recorded that the excess produce from the gardens was sold, and the total monies received in 1858 was £76, which was a substantial sum for the period. To put that figure of £76 into context, in 1892, when the head gardener was George Mclean, the average fortnightly wage for a gardener was between £3 and £3-3s (£3.15).
The First World War had a direct affect on many walled gardens with young gardeners volunteering to fight for King and Country. At
The vinery Shugborough their places were taken by six German prisoners of war, watched over by a guard with a rifle and bayonet, who worked from six in the morning till five in the evening. By about 1934 the walled garden had ceased to function as the estate kitchen garden and was leased to a market gardener. During the Second World War the Land Army Girls worked in the walled garden.
Recently the National Trust has taken over the responsibility for the running of the Estate and one of their aims is to restore the walled garden to its former glory. That would be a fitting tribute to the many gardeners who lived and worked at Shugborough.
Barry Walker is a member of the Landor (Local History) Society Images shown are printed here by kind permission of ‘Staffordshire Past Track’.
Gardener’s house and glasshouses
A view of the walled garden
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Clash of Knights!
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n Saturday June 17th the beautiful village of Mavesyn Ridware will be bringing to life a medieval story of battle, loss and love through the lives of three sisters. Set in the 14th century and based on true events, Clash of Knights is a play that has been written by students from the Hart School in Rugeley. Three young sisters are thrown into a feud between two families – how will they survive and thrive? This fascinating tale is an exploration of two families of the ‘Ridwares’ (meaning river folk), and will be performed by students from the Hart School. The whole village is involved, and the play begins in the beautiful church of St Nicholas in Mavesyn Ridware. Each scene then takes place in a different spot in and around the 12th century church and 14th century gatehouse. Actors and audience will process, accompanied by musicians, a short way to a different spot for each new scene as the story unfolds. There are two performances. The first is at 11am (preceded by a coffee morning at 10am to 10.45am) and at 2.30pm (followed by tea and cakes from 4pm to 5pm). Tickets are £10 each for adults and this includes refreshments. Children under 12 years are free (if accompanied by a parent/carer with a ticket). To book your ticket contact Sunny at clashofknights2017@gmail.com or go to their Facebook page ‘Church of St Nicholas Mavesyn’. There’s plenty of free parking available and the route is wheelchair accessible (there are ramps available to access the church). The event is in aid of St Nicholas’ church.
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! Contact Citylife at josscitylife@gmail.com
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Town Talk
News from Rugeley Town Council
Rugeley Rose Theatre and Community Hall The Perfect Venue to Host Your Wedding or Event
The Rugeley Rose Theatre is a beautiful and dramatic setting that is available to hire for weddings and other private events. The Theatre is licensed for wedding ceremonies, allowing the whole day to be set in one place from wedding breakfast to evening reception. There are two rooms to use, The Phoenix Theatre which seats up to 210 people and the Landor Suite which seats up to 80 people. A fully stocked bar is also available and catering can be organised for you, or you can source your own. We can personalise your wedding to make it your perfect day. The Phoenix Theatre stage is a great place for your ‘top table’, and there is also a projector available which can show pictures throughout the event. We also have a starry night illuminated backdrop to give a magical feel to your wedding. With free parking and disabled access throughout, we aim to make your day hassle free and relaxed. To discuss dates and costs please call 01889 584036 and ask for Laurie Goode. The Rugeley Rose Theatre and Community Hall can be found at Taylor's Lane, Rugeley, WS15 2AA.
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Town Talk
News from Rugeley Town Council
How to contact Rugeley Town Council
Councillor Ian Hodgson Leader of the Council
Rugeley Town Council held its annual meeting in May and was pleased to elect Cllr Ian Hodgson as Leader of the Council for his second year.
Councillor Wanted!
Following the recent resignation of Cllr Bowater, a vacancy has arisen for a co-opted councillor on the town council. It is an unpaid position but does allow for an individual to get actively involved in maintaining and improving life in Rugeley Town.
To be eligible to apply, you must be a Commonwealth or British Citizen or Euro national, and be aged over 18. In addition ONE of the following must apply:
• Be on the local electoral register • Own property or land in the area for the past 12 months • Work in the parish for the last 12 months • Have lived within 3 miles of the parish for the last 12 months.
Should you wish to apply, please send a letter describing why you would like to be on the Town Council to Rugeley Town Council by 19th June 2017. We look forward to hearing from you.
Rugeley Town Council, Rose Theatre and Community Hall, Taylors Lane, Rugeley, Staffordshire, WS15 2AA Tel: 01889 574074 Email: clerk@rugeleytowncouncil.gov.uk Website: www.rugeleytowncouncil.gov.uk
Hilary Goodreid Becci Mason
Richard Alexander Pat Ansell Angi Cooney Bob Dipple David Gaye Gary Grant Chris Green Mick Grocott Dave Hancock Pat Hancock Ian Hodgson Ray Jones Chris Panter-Hood Sarah Rose Neil Stanley Glenis Turner Steph Whitehouse Jeff Winter
Grants
Officer Contacts
Locum Town Clerk Assistant Town Clerk
Town Councillors
EH (Cons) WSs (LibDem) EH (Trader) H (Traders) EH (Independent) H (LibDem) WSn (Ind) co-opted WSn (Independent) H (Ind) co-opted H (Independent) H (Independent) EH (LibDem) WSn (Independent) EH (UKIP) co-opted H (Independent) WSn (Independent) EH (UKIP) H (Labour)
Each year, Rugeley Town Council awards grants to support the work carried out in the community through local voluntary groups, clubs and societies. Application forms are available from our website or from the town council offices.
clerk@rugeleytowncouncil.gov.uk finance@rugeleytowncouncil.gov.uk 01889 586869 01543 685262 07866 610894 01889 800271 07866 750139 01889 803822 01889 800644 01889 570670 01889 586640 01889 586640 01889 800644 01889 574074 01889 574074 07983 535509 01889 570783 01889 574074 07816 444000 07887 633941
Hagley Fields flood risk works – update
During April the main activity has been piling – this is noisy and generated a number of complaints. Later in May, will see the clay imported to Hagley Fields. A road sweeper will be active throughout this period. The second phase of piling will start in June and last for four weeks. Residents on Bank Top and Hagley Drive will be most affected.
www.rugeleytowncouncil.gov.uk
The Town Council have recently launched its new website. On here will be the copies of Agendas and Minutes of the council meetings and the committee meetings – we have committees overseeing the local Festivals, Planning, The Rose Theatre and the Finance & Management of the Council. We also post information about upcoming events or just interesting articles for you. Why not take a bit of time and find out more about your local council?
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Home welcome
JR Properties was established in 2011 by Director James Richards in his home town of Rugeley, and has quickly grown into one of the leading estate agents in the area. James together with his team have a wealth of experience in the ‘world’ of estate agency and a great understanding of the market in an area that he knows and loves. It is this level of local knowledge that gives them the edge over their competitors. Looking for a property with great transport links and schools? Looking to beat the rush in an ‘up and coming area’ – JR Properties can guide you through the process to find your dream
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home. JR mix the highest levels of professionalism with a friendly and approachable attitude and years of combined experience. They work with every home-owner to create an individual service so that your property is put in front of the right audience; and if you’re looking for your new home they can help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Are you a landlord looking to rent your property, or perhaps you’re looking for a great new rental home in Rugeley or the surrounding villages? JR Properties take the hassle out of the entire process so that you can be confident your property is in safe
• Buying • Selling • Renting • Letting
hands. Why not drop in for an informal chat with James, Monique Mcpeake (Branch Manager) or Dawn Goodwin (Negotiator) you’ll be glad you did. JR Properties Ltd, 25B Horsefair, Rugeley, WS15 2EJ. Tel: 01889 577731 enquiries@jrpropertiesstaffs.com www.jrpropertiesstaffs.com
JR Properties Ltd, 25B Horsefair, Rugeley, WS15 2EJ. Tel: 01889 577731 enquiries@jrpropertiesstaffs.com www.jrpropertiesstaffs.com
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Rotary Ride in aid of Polio Eradication
MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTORS WANTED
Earn extra money delivering magazines in Rugeley, Cannock, Lichfield and Tamworth.
Must be over 16
Call Marie today! 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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R
otary Club of Rugeley is joining hundreds of other Rotary Clubs across the UK to organise a local bike ride in aid of End Polio Now - taking place on Saturday 17th June at Birches Valley, Cannock Chase. There will be a choice of various rides ranging from 2km up to a more adventurous ride for experienced cyclists. Entry is £5 for adults and £3 for children (£12.50 for a family of one or two adults and up to four children). There will also be a skills course for young riders taking place to test their cycling ability. 100% of all entry fees will be passed on to End Polio Now. The full cost of organising the ride will be paid by Rotary Club of Rugeley. Since 1985, Rotary International has been at the fore in raising funding for a worldwide vaccination programme to completely rid the world of this debilitating disease. When the project launched, there were 2500 cases of polio every week. In 2016 there were less than 40 in the whole year. This ride will help with the final push so that just like smallpox, the World Health Organisation can declare the world to be free from polio. Entries will be accepted on the day between 10am and 2pm, or can be made in advance at www.rugeleyrotary.org.uk Every pound raised from this event will be tripled by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation so your £5 entry fee will be worth £15 in total. 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
Rugeley Swimming Champion Smashes Personal Record
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ugeley champion swimmer Richard Hinsley took five minutes off his personal best record in the recent Swimathon for the Marie Curie charity. The 32 year old completed the 5k challenge at the Rugeley Leisure Centre. Richard commented: “It was fantastic to beat my own record by such a large margin. It was taking part in the Marie Curie Swimathon a few years ago that gave me a passion for swimming. I want to thank my family and friends for helping me raise money for such an amazing charity.” Richard swims for Staffordshire and is currently ranked 3rd in the Midlands for Butterfly and Front Crawl. He trains with Lichfield Swimming Club at the Friary Centre. In his latest win he picked up two gold medals, a silver and a bronze at the Staffordshire Masters competition in Stafford. Richard was one of thousands of people who took part in the annual fundraising swim which was held across the UK in over 600 participating pools. It raised vital funds for Marie Curie, the UK’s leading charity for people living with a terminal illness and their families.
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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