Citylife in Lichfield April 2016 by Citylife In Lichfield

Welcome to CITYLIFE

Welcome to CITYLIFE in Lichfield, a monthly magazine bringing you our pick of the city’s news, events and stories. Each month CITYLIFE in Lichfield will be delivered to 18,000 businesses and homes in Lichfield, Kings Bromley, Fradley, Alrewas, Whittington, Stonnall, Shenstone, Little Aston, Hammerwich, Burntwood and Longdon, completely free of charge, and we’re looking forward to bringing you the best that the city has to offer. Each issue will feature 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 city? We want to hear from you! Our business is bringing you Lichfield’s city life.

APRIL 2016

In This Issue

6 WIN Afternoon Tea at Netherstowe House Hotel Win Afternoon Tea for Two People. 20 A Lichfieldian’s Life on Screen Meet Tobias James Samuels. 32 The Lost Locals of Lichfield Pubs we have loved and lost.

36 Flower Power Add a touch of floral luxe to your wardrobe.

44 Beautiful Outdoor Spaces in 2016 Top trends for the year ahead. 44

Cover by Carl Knibb Issue 2 April 2016

CITYLIFE CONTACTS Editor - Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048

josscitylife@gmail.com

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Steve Brown 07740 166497 stevebrowncitylife@gmail.com Rebecca Hill 07970 513144 rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com Production - Helen Smith 07967 154187 pebblesdesignagency@hotmail.co.uk Citylife In Lichfield Ltd PO Box 7126 LICHFIELD WS14 4JS CITYLIFE in Lichfield magazine is not connected to any other publication or publisher, and is wholly owned by CITYLIFE in Lichfield Ltd. Citylife In Lichfield

20 32

Win Afternoon Tea at Netherstowe House Hotel

e are delighted to be able to offer our readers the chance to win a Traditional Afternoon Tea at the exquisite Netherstowe House Hotel. This award winning, Grade II listed venue offers everything from fine dining to bistro gastronomy, and their scrumptious Afternoon Teas are just the right combination of elegance and laidback informality. The Hotel has welcomed many VIPs through their doors, including Hollywood stars Idris Elba, Sir Roger Moore and Helen Baxindale and much loved celebrities Barry Norman CBE and Claire Sweeney. Netherstowe House Hotel has twice been voted ‘Restaurant of the Year’ in the Taste of Staffordshire Awards, and holds a coveted AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence and Michelin Guide recommendation. Netherstowe House

Hotel is a wonderful venue for anniversaries, birthdays, weddings and events, but also offers intimate and relaxed dining in a truly beautiful setting. With attentive and friendly staff, and a boutique ‘Country House’ feel, Netherstowe House is the perfect mix of contemporary luxury and old world ‘Downton Abbey’ elegance.

Afternoon Tea

Traditional Afternoon Tea - £19.95 per person. Traditional Afternoon Tea with a flute of Champagne - £30.45 per person. Afternoon Tea is available every day from 1pm until 5pm (last serving at 3pm). Fancy an extra special get-together with the girls? Ladies Day is every Wednesday when Afternoon Tea served with a Bucks Fizz aperitif is just £19.95.

To win Traditional Afternoon Tea for two, just unscramble the anagram below, and re-arrange the letters to find something that comes in all the colours of the rainbow!

amoacnor

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To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to ‘Netherstowe House Hotel Competition’* at josscitylife@gmail.com or by post to Citylife In Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield WS14 4JS by the competition closing date of Saturday 23rd April 2016. One entry per household, multiple entries will be excluded. Winners will not be offered a cash equivalent. *Netherstowe House Hotel will contact the winner to arrange their prize, and may contact entrants with information, offers and news. Congratulations to Mrs Jenny Chapman of Birchwood Road, Lichfield who gave the correct answer of 'chocolate cake', and solved the competition anagram in the March issue.

Eoin & Vicky

Jesus Christ Superstar comes to Garrick

NDREW Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's global phenomenon Jesus Christ Superstar is coming to the Lichfield Garrick. Lichfield Operatic Society is recreating the rock opera 45 years after the show opened on Broadway. This timeless work is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universallyknown series of events but seen, unusually, through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Set in Jerusalem it follows the highs and lows of Jesus and his disciples throughout the last seven days of his life. Taking on the role of Jesus in this legendary piece is long-time member Eoin Edwards who joined the society back in 2002 for the company's production of Guy and Dolls. Of his new role, he said: "Having been fortunate enough to play Judas in a previous production of Jesus Christ Superstar last year, I am really looking forward to playing Jesus so I can view the show from the other side â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as long as I can remember to sing the correct part! "I'm looking forward to treading the boards with such a fantastic cast, and working with such a brilliant production team." The ground-breaking score features many of musical theatre's most legendary songs from I Don't Know How to Love Him, Heaven on Their Minds and Gethsemane through to Superstar. Alongside Eoin will be Vickie Beck in the role of Mary and Phil Bourn as Judas, who achieved acclaim for his portrayal of Jerry in The Full Monty. Phil is reprising the role he played at the Garrick 13 years ago. The show runs at the Lichfield Garrick from April 12th-16th. For tickets, call the box office on 01543 412121 or go to www.lichfieldgarrick.com

Julian Lloyd Webber photo by John Millar

Julian Lloyd Webber 10

New Festival Patron

ichfield Festival has announced that Julian Lloyd Webber is to become one of its Patrons. The celebrated former cellist, who recently took up the post of Principal of Birmingham Conservatoire, is a passionate advocate for the Midlands music and arts scene. He joins the Festival’s two continuing patrons; Russian conductor and artistic director of St Petersburg’s famous Mariinsky Theatre, Valery Gergiev, and Lichfield MP and arts enthusiast Michael Fabricant MP. Julian Lloyd Webber commented: “I am delighted to become a Patron of Lichfield Festival. It has been an honour for me to perform at the Festival which has always been one of the finest in the land! I am pleased to see that it continues with its innovative programming which means that there is always something for everyone in this beautiful cathedral city.” Artistic Director, Sonia Stevenson added: "It gives me the greatest pleasure to welcome Julian Lloyd Webber as Patron of Lichfield Festival. Julian is one of the most highly respected classical musicians in the country, and is now an equally admired leader in the education sector and these are two of the things that we value most as a festival: championing the best talent in the land, and nurturing the stars of the future. We look forward to working with Julian and forging closer links with Birmingham Conservatoire."

Lichfield Festival is one of the most eclectic in the UK and this year marks its 35th anniversary. The festival will run from 1-10 July and programme details will be announced soon.

Mother’s Day Play and Stay

reschool at Footsteps Day Nursery in Lichfield had lots of fun on Friday 4th March, making their very own ‘God’s Eyes’ using willow and different coloured thread. All of the mothers and grandmothers were invited along for their Mother’s Day play and stay, to make different craft items in the forest school and enjoy hot chocolate made especially on the fire!

The dangers of DIY divorce

he discovery of a fault on the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own divorce portal late last year has once again highlighted the dangers of DIY divorce. Thousands of divorces may have been voided, if an incorrect formula on the Susan Davies Ministry of Justice website was used to calculate the financial settlement. Since the withdrawal of legal aid for most family law cases, many people have been tempted to opt for a 'quickie', do-it-yourself divorce, online. Promoted as a cost saving service this might seem like an appealing route. However, one in four DIY divorce petitions are flawed and have to be returned for correction due to errors in procedure, lack of information or in some cases, failure to enclose the correct fees. For the majority of couples, separating your emotional and financial ties is not that straightforward and the benefits of instructing a Resolution accredited family solicitor far outweigh the potential cost savings of trying to handle it yourself. There is a lot more to getting divorced than just ending your marriage. The court will want to know where you and your children will live and how often they will see the other parent. You will also need to reach a financial settlement, deciding on how assets like your home, business, pensions and savings will be shared. You should never sign an agreement without taking legal advice, as you may be bound to terms you did not know about. Susan Davies, head of family law at Ansons Solicitors in Lichfield has seen the confusion and vulnerability of people who divorce without representation. With this comes a tendency to be on the defensive, refusing to speak to anyone from the other side, refusing to negotiate or agree anything. This all adds to the time and costs of the divorce in the long term. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At Ansons we promote open negotiation above anything else. We recommend collaborative law to our clients and know that this is the best way to agree arrangements for your children, your home and finances,â&#x20AC;? says Susan. If you do end up going to court, representing yourself within divorce proceedings without help from a solicitor is rarely straightforward. The rules are complex, and there will be no one from the court service to advise you what to do. Your solicitor will advise you whether an agreement is fair, and be there to guide you when your judgement may be clouded. An online service cannot replace the years of experience, and knowledge of the Lichfield courts that a local solicitor can provide. For confidential advice on divorce, arrangements for children and financial settlements contact Susan Davies, head of family law at Ansons Solicitors in Lichfield on 01543 267 190 or email sdavies@ansonsllp.com.

Making a home for wildlife

Lichfield District Council’s park rangers recently visited Stowe Pool’s manmade islands to build up the structures with material, including willow, dogwood, turf and marginal plants taken from Beacon Park. Refreshing the wildfowl islands takes place at this time each year, so they are ready for the birds to build their nests on them later in the spring.

ouncillor Andrew Smith, Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks for Lichfield District Council, said: “The islands are popular with birds each year, attracting various species of wildfowl, including grebes, coots and moorhens, among others, which use them to keep their nests safe, away from the shore. They also provide excellent perching sites for herons and cormorants.” If you would like to volunteer and get involved in conservation events on sites such as Stowe Pool and Beacon Park, please email parks@lichfielddc.gov.uk or call the Ranger Station 01543 308867.

George Hotel

The George Hotel in Bird Street, Lichfield has presented a cheque for £750 to the We Love Lichfield Fund. The money was raised during the year through raffles held at the hotel’s popular flower arranging demonstrations, and the hotel donated a percentage of their takings from special events like the Bower Day and Lichfield Food Festival in 2015.

donates T £750 to WLLF

he We Love Lichfield fund helps Lichfield district based voluntary groups and has given back nearly £50,000 in grants since it was created just over 4 years ago. Beneficiaries include Burntwood Scout Group, Lichfield Gospel Choir and the University of the Third Age, to name just a few. Angela Burns, Chief Executive said: “We are delighted to have been able to

help We Love Lichfield which makes a difference to so many good causes in Lichfield and the surrounding district. We would like to say a special thank you to our customers who donated generously during the year”. For more information about The George visit: www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk For more information about the We Love Lichfield Fund visit welovelichfield.com

McKenzie’s Restaurant

McKenzie’s Restaurant, with its warm and friendly atmosphere, is a place where you can just be. We’re proud of our service and the provenance of our ingredients which are sourced from the best possible suppliers – suppliers who are key to bringing you the finest produce. Our meat partner is the renowned Aubrey Allen Butchers, who support our high standard in meat cuts. Aubrey Allen Butchers ensure that only herds bred for beef are served in McKenzie’s Restaurant.

uch of the beef that is sold in this country comes from dairy cattle. Cows bred for milk are incapable of putting on fat (which gives meat flavour) and meat in the same way that beef cattle can. These cattle (a by-product of the dairy industry), are fed and bred quickly. By contrast, traditional beef cattle (the great Aberdeen Angus and beautiful Hereford and Devon breeds amongst others) are bred slowly and grass-fed with access to clean, clear drinking water for at times almost twice as long as their dairy counterparts. It is the care given to the animals on the farm, in

addition to the dry ageing thereafter that allows cattle to develop depth of flavour. Aubrey Allen’s approach allows us to guarantee that we have beef cattle rather than dairy cows in our restaurant. Our homemade Scotch Eggs come from our Cumberland Sausages that are created from pork made only from Sows, ensuring a sweeter flavour. We know the story and a provenance of our ingredients, and use local produce and ingredients that have been ethically bred with full traceability. The beef that we use, is chosen carefully using a stringent selection criteria to create the perfect steak. The beef is dry aged on the bone in the time honoured way to intensify the flavour and succulence. The result is meat that once in the kitchen and brought to room temperature, undergoes a chemical reaction in the pan called caramelisation – giving the diner a sweet sensation on first bite. The second bite will reveal an intense, beefy flavour and succulence and a desire to eat more! McKenzie’s Restaurant pay a little more for our produce and ingredients, but we know that were bringing the diner food that has been cared about all the way from farm to plate. Our wine and craft beer partner is the award winning supplier ‘Corks Out’. At McKenzie’s Restaurant we take people back to a time where food was pride of the plate; freshly prepared with an honesty and purity, and served by people who put family values first. We welcome every person into our world as strangers and treat them as we would our own family. We’re very proud of our beautiful restaurant interior, with its galleried lounge area and cupola. The lounge is a place where you can stop and truly relax. We are open every day of the week, from 11am through to 9pm (later at weekends and busier nights). We take bookings over the phone on 01543 417371 As we produce the menu on site we can change and add ingredients if required. Families are welcome and for our younger generation expect food that is fresh and asks them to be little adults.

Tobias with Philip Glenister and members of the cast

A Lichfieldian’s Life on Screen Do you recognise this man?

This is Tobias James-Samuels, who may very well look familiar to you. Tobias has been appearing in some of the most highly regarded TV series and film block-busters of the last 13 years as a Supporting Artist, a role that includes Special Actions, Walk-On, Body Double, Armed Response and Stunt actions. His work has taken him to fascinating places and introduced him to some of the greatest film stars of our age, involving him in everything from Father Brown to Mission Impossible and Star Wars – The Force Awakens.

obias is 38, and lives with his family in Lichfield. A life-long love of diving, sailing, canoeing and wind-surfing (Tobias is also a qualified power-boat instructor) led to an initial career crewing private luxury yachts (including that of the Sultan of Brunei). These skills, and putting himself through drama school, led him into the world of TV and film, where he regularly appears when performers are needed to tackle tricky jobs that include physical action and special skills. I interviewed Tobias recently about his work. J.M.K: What kind of work are you usually called to do in film and TV? T.J.S: I do a lot of police for TV roles, and for film it’s usually police, soldiers, armed response and army roles – anything where you might need to restrain someone or handle firearms, although in the last Mission Impossible film I was a Diplomat so it varies a lot. I’m a regular police officer on Father Brown, and I’m looking forward to filming starting on the new season. My very first job was Doctors in 2003 where I played a man on a park bench looking romantic with his girlfriend. I still work on Doctors as a regular cop. It’s filmed in Selly

Oak and it’s lovely not to have to travel to London. Most times for London jobs I’m up at 1am for a 5am call. Roles differ a lot, on Holby I was a crash victim, and my sole job was to lie on a bed, covered in fake blood and scream my head off! In 2003 I was in Island at War with Philip Glenister. He’s a really nice guy. Ordinarily it’s not OK for us to bother the ‘Principles’ when they’re preparing, as you can put them off their stride (principle actors – Ed). It’s not OK to ask for selfies for instance, but Philip came and chatted to us. It’s fine to chat to them when you’re working on a scene, in fact it’s necessary to let them know what you’re going to do – if you need to move them. A lot of times I have to throw people around. You make sure not to physically hurt anyone but some actors really go for it. I’ve been a police officer in Hollyoaks and worked a lot on Wire in the Blood as armed reponse. J.M.K: What are principle actors like when they’re off camera? T.J.S: It’s amazing to watch how principle actors change when they get in front of the camera. Ray Winstone is a lovely guy, very friendly, always introduces himself. In ‘All in the Game’ I was waiting in the changing room

By Joss Musgrove Knibb with him before he went out to do his scene out on the pitch. He was playing an aggressive football manager and had to get pumped up before going out, so he started pacing and roaring, and all the while I was standing there scared to death! I remember being in a mini-van going from one set to another with other lads in prison warden uniform. Incidentally, when I’m dressed as a police officer, I have to carry authorisation from the Metropolitan Police that gives me permission to wear the uniform. In the van with us was an old man, scruffy, gray-haired. I was on the phone to my wife cursing about our broken boiler. Turns out the old man was Jim Broadbent in costume. He’d even put stones in his shoes so that he walked with a limp. He was

On location Mission Impossible

unrecognisable! Before Tom Hardy was famous he was in ‘Stuart: A Life Backwards’. We were in Kingston upon Thames in a courthouse, as cops, and he was playing a sort of thug and we were all thinking- this guy doesn’t deserve this opportunity ‘cos he was pratting around, talking between takes. To us he was just a random actor, and it turned out he was a method actor and it was all part of the preparation. J.M.K: What’s it like playing police roles? T.J.S: Sometimes being in police uniform on set can be... interesting. On Shameless, we were filming in a dodgy area of Manchester, and we got a lot of grief from the locals. On the other hand working on Father Brown as a cop is one of my favourite jobs. The crew are lovely and it’s very laid back – ‘Costume’ let you take your jacket off in the summer for instance. Mark Williams (Father Brown) is a Midlander himself and he always says hello, it’s a nice atmosphere. J.M.K: Do you have to do a lot of preparation? T.J.S: You don’t always get the parts you really want. In Spectre I was up for a part bodydoubling for Daniel Craig - torso, hands and arms. So I hit the gym and lived on chicken and rice. It was a lot of preparation but I didn’t get it. You have to go to a lot of ‘workshop days’ or rehearsal days where the director and the main principle gets to see you and what the scene

will look like with you in it. You see them scanning the room with their fingers, making a square in front of their eyes, so that they can imagine a camera’s eye view. These days can include firearms and combat training, so it’s very physical – working with stunt coordinators who are our bosses on a production. Days can be 14 or 15 hours. There’s a fair bit of waiting and on films it’s hard because they take your phones off you, so you can’t go online to look for other jobs. We have to sign confidentiality forms. On a recent big film that I can’t talk about they put a sticker over your phone’s camera and let you keep your phone which was great. If you tried to take it off to take a sneaky pic you couldn’t put it back on again, so they’d know you’d broken the agreement. J.M.K: What’s the biggest film you’ve ever done? T.J.S: Star Wars is probably my biggest film, where I was an Empire Soldier. The costume was really hot as it was summer. I was blown up a lot and I was in the evil empire space ship. It’s a physical set, they built it. J.M.K: Do you ever get any strange requests? T.J.S: I was on Rush with director Ron Howard, and he came running up, speaking at the speed of light saying: ‘I Don’t care what you do, just entertain these models, make them laugh’, so I told them about my last night out in

Lichfield. I’d had a heavy night and I repeated it! In A Theory of Everything I was a waiter, luckily I’d got silver service as I’d done it in the Isle of Wight years ago! I really enjoy my job, it can be hard work and long hours but I wouldn’t change it.

On location Father Brown

Specsavers School Screening Blues and Jazz Festival 2016 Lichfield Arts have announced the line-up for this year’s Lichfield Blues and Jazz Festival. Some of the finest national and regional jazz and blues musicians will be visiting Lichfield between June 24th and 26th, playing a wide range of genres from jazz rock, to acoustic blues, in the Guildhall, the George Hotel , Wade Street Church and many other venues throughout the city.

T 22

he festival starts during the evening of Friday 24th June, where music fans will be able to see the critically acclaimed Matt Schofield Band in the Guildhall, whilst Wade Street Church will see the jazz/folk crossover music of the Tim Amann Xtet. Saturday features all day music at the Guildhall including performers such as The Birmingham Jazz Orchestra, The Callum Roxburgh Swing Orchestra, Steve Ajao Blues Giants and Rebecca Downes, with The Steve Waterman Quartet playing at Wade Street Church. Sunday will feature music at The George

embers of staff from Specsavers in Lichfield recently handed over radical new online vision screening software to the staff and children of Queen’s Croft High School. This three-minute screening test can detect the most common eye problems that affect children, such as long and short sight, lazy eye and squints. This software has been developed and funded for Specsavers’ Screening for Schools campaign, following a recent study which revealed millions of children have never had a sight test. Specsavers Lichfield store director, Praful Patel, said: “A child’s eyesight will continue to develop up to the age of eight years-old and a number of conditions can be corrected by an optician if detected before this time. However, there is still a lack of general awareness among some parents and teachers about the importance of regular sight tests from the age of three or four. We have seen some cases where children have been misdiagnosed with dyslexia, ADHD or learning difficulties when in fact the child simply needs glasses.”

The vision screening software is now available to all primary and secondary schools in the UK. Schools not already signed up can register at www.screeningforschools.co.uk

Hotel, with leading solo bassist Fred Thelonius Baker, the roof raising Nick Dewhurst Quintet, and the Zappatistas, the cream of jazz rock musicians, including such luminaries as Annie Whitehead, John Etheridge, and Steve Lodder in their musical tribute to the life and music of the iconic Frank Zappa. Sunday will also see music at the Guildhall with performances from South Staffordshire Primary Schools Jazz Orchestra, the Staffordshire Youth Jazz Orchestra (East), and Lichfield’s favourite bluesman, Kent Duchaine. As well as all of these performances, there will be a programme of workshops, and free

Steve Ajao

John Etheridge live music in many Lichfield pubs and other venues. Tickets are Annie Whitehead available for i n d i v i d u a l concerts, days, or for the whole festival, with a special early bird full weekend ticket for £45, until May 1st. For further details, and to book tickets visit www.lichfieldarts.org.uk, telephone (01543) 262223, or call into the Lichfield Arts Box Office in Donegal House, on Bore Street.

MP Backs HS2 Mitigation

Michael Fabricant MP is backing calls by the HS2 Action Alliance to mitigate further the route of the railway line in Staffordshire and the rest of the country. The Alliance has written to Robert Syms MP, the Chairman of the Parliamentary HS2 Committee to ask that its recommendations be included in the legislation.

ichael Fabricant commented: “It is unfortunate that HS2 will travel through countryside so far unspoiled by man and destroying ancient woodlands. While we have seen a number of changes to improve the route around Lichfield including lowering parts of the line into cuttings, there will still be huge environmental damage. For that reason, I have written to Robert Syms in support of the Alliance letter and hope that appropriate changes can be made to the legislation. I have worked closely with the HS2AA and their letter makes reasonable demands. I will continue to oppose the HS2 Bill when it is next voted on in Parliament. “While I recognise the need for extra north-south rail capacity, the line should either use upgraded existing track or travel along current transport corridors such as motorways to minimise the environmental impact. In any event, the route needs a major rethink: lines north of London should connect directly with the continent and with major airports. The current route does not.”

Lights Out at The George

Tim Samson and members of the team.

At 8.30pm on Saturday 19th March, The George Hotel in Bird Street, turned off all non-essential lights for an hour in support of the global Earth Hour “Lights Out” initiative.

arth Hour is a World Wildlife Fund initiative which started in Sydney Australia in 2007 to focus the world’s attention on the need to protect the planet and to take action on climate change. The staff at The George joined millions of people in over 7,000 towns and cities in 172 countries who switched off their lights last year to pledge their support for the planet. Global landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Rome’s Colosseum, Edinburgh Castle, The London Eye and Buckingham Palace also stood in darkness. On Saturday 19th March The George’s lights were dimmed everywhere, all external lights were switched off and Darwin’s restaurant and the bar were lit by candles for the hour. Angela Burns, Chief Executive at The George said: “At The George we are very proud of our commitment to environmental issues and sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. While the 60 minutes of energy saved during the event is important, Earth Hour also demonstrates that by taking personal responsibility for turning off lights and unplugging electrical items each of us can make a positive difference. In past years our guests seemed to enjoy the experience of dining by candlelight and the fact that, in more ways than one, their meals did not cost the earth”.

Congratulations to Body Beautiful

ody Beautiful Day Spa and Salon has just won a prestigious national award - Salon Of The Year 2016. The award was based on exceptional customer service, client care and outstanding treatments. The award was presented in London by Arnaud Diaz, International director, following an award ceremony at The Brewery London with Stephen Mulhern. The luxurious salon has something to offer everyone and also caters for hen parties and Group bookings. Body Beautiful offers treatments ranging from waxing, nails, massage and facials to holistic treatments including reiki healing, hopi ear candles and reflexology. The salon is set over three floors with boutique style treatment rooms, a relaxing snug area, courtyard garden and a retail area where you will find a selection of quality brands which are used in treatments, such as Thalgo face and body products (which is a well known brand that is marine based delivering scientifically proven results), Nailtiques, which will care for every nail concern and Jane Iredale make-up which is used in bridal make-up and is created with 100% pure minerals, and is supported by the Skin Cancer Foundation Trust. Body Beautiful also offers Aromaworks massage oils, Advanced nutrition which provides supplements for all concerns, Fake Bake, St Tropez, Opi, Vinylux and CND Shellac. Why not come and see for yourself and experience our friendly welcoming and highly trained staff.

What is Gymophobics? Do you hate traditional gyms? Do you feel self-conscious about exercising? Are you time poor?

When Gymophobics Lichfield opened back in 2003 the goal was to attract women who might not consider joining a conventional gym. It is now one of the

The Lichfield Prize 2016

most popular and successful inch and weight loss systems in the country. After an assessment, all members are given their own personal 30 minute plan to use in the gym, which is equipped with ‘air’ resistance equipment – as used by sports professionals and Premier League footballers. There’s no queuing at Gymophobics, with a traffic light system in place to

ensure everyone can complete their prescribed, personalised exercises in a stress-free, comfortable environment. The ‘resisted tension’ programme integrates four types of exercise: Isotronic; resistance Isometrics; muscle contracting and squeezing Callisthencis - free movements using your body weight and Cardio aerobic conditioning. Additionally there are a number of special classes available to join each week. Call 01543 252700 to find out more.

he Lichfield Prize returns for its third year in 2016 with prizes worth £1000. emporium, in association with Lichfield Festival, is looking for emerging and established artists across the UK to participate in their annual visual arts competition.

Under the exhibition title of Shadow* artists are invited to creatively interpret this theme with paintings, drawings, printmaking, sculpture, textiles, mixed media, or photography. First Prize is £500 cash sponsored by tinyCOW plus a solo exhibition at emporium.

Finalists work will be exhibited within Lichfield Cathedral alongside an exhibition of selected entries at emporium for the duration of the Lichfield Festival.

Entry Forms can be found at w w w. e m p o r i u m - g a l l e r y. c o . u k Closing date for entries is Tuesday 31st May 2106.

For further information please contact emporium on 01543 256624 or email emporiumartgallery@gmail.com

Knitique

J HOWELL & DAUGHTERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS LICHFIELD & ALREWAS

NOW LICHFIELD & ALREWASâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ONLY FAMILY OWNED FUNERAL DIRECTORS 24 hours a day

We are proud to be Lichfield's longest established family run funeral directors offering a wide range of choices to suit all requirements. Horse drawn, non religious ceremonies, floral tributes and memorials are but a few services we offer. Pre-paid funeral plans are also available.

For a truly personal service please call

01543 255776

Private Chapel of Rest 116 Netherstowe, Lichfield, Staffs. WS13 6TS

01283 792923

36 Main Street, Alrewas, Burton Upon Trent. DE13 7AA

On 1st March Knitique opened its doors for the first time in Tudor Row, Lichfield. Knitique has been trading for almost three years at the Heart of The Country Shopping Village, Swinfen and the move to Tudor Row was prompted by the need for bigger premises, to expand their range of quality yarns, patterns and accessories and to meet the increasing demand in for Knitiqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s knitting and crochet workshop programme. Details of their products and workshops can be found at www.knitiqueonline.com. Saturday 30th April sees the third national "Love Your Yarn Shop Day" which Knitique will be participating in. On the day they will be offering 10% off full priced yarn, free limited edition goody bags and there will be tea, coffee and cake for all customers. Knitique is glad to have relocated into the heart of historic Lichfield and they welcome customers old and new.

upils and staff at Lichfield Cathedral School, one of Staffordshire’s top independent schools, are celebrating today following an excellent inspection

report. Inspectors from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) praised the academic achievements and personal development of pupils and the welcoming, creative and caring Christian environment in which they thrive. The inspectors found: “The curriculum is excellent in its breadth and flexibility… Pupils of all ages have highly positive attitudes to learning. They are eager to learn, take pride in what they achieve and persevere with their tasks.” Particular strengths of the school curriculum were noted by the inspectors: “The academic achievement of pupils is significantly strengthened by their excellent achievements in extra-curricular activities… At all stages creativity flourishes with excellent outcomes, notably in art, as

observed in the excellent displays around the school, and in drama and music… In performances both nationally and abroad, pupils achieve significant instrumental and choral successes.” The report also pays tribute to the fine personal qualities of pupils. “The pupils’ strong spiritual development is encouraged by the Christian ethos of the school and their exploration of Christian values… Pupils develop their individuality, becoming selfconfident young people with a clear sense of their own beliefs.” The team also said that pupils recognise and respect the faith and cultures of others and that they celebrate diversity. The huge array of charity, volunteering and fund-raising for the less fortunate are all acknowledged. The report continues: “The quality of pupils’ personal development is excellent throughout the school, evident from the very youngest pupils to the sixth formers. By the time they leave, pupils are self-assured individuals who are articulate and confident in social situations.”

Head Teacher, Susan Hannam, said that she was delighted with the inspectors’ findings. “They have recognised the Cathedral School’s high standards of teaching and learning, our superb staff, wide-ranging extra-curricular programme and exceptional pastoral care. It is rewarding to know that the things in which we pride ourselves, as summarised in our core values of learning, leadership, faith and service, were not only recognised by the inspectors, but were articulated to them by our pupils.” Colin Hopkins, chairman of governors, commented: “It is wonderful to see the word ‘excellent’ used 40 times in the report. In everything we do, we focus on educating pupils as individuals and I’m delighted this glowing report celebrates how much outstanding work goes on at Lichfield Cathedral School. Our pupils, staff, parents and my fellow governors should all feel proud. We’re a happy, lively, successful school and we’ll use this report as a platform to improve even further.”

Lichfield Cathedral School praised by inspectors

The Three Crowns, Breadmarket Street

A Window on the Past

The Lost Locals of Lichfield

Pubs are special places, they’re often the hearts of their community, and how many of us met best-friends, boyfriends, husbands and wives for the very first time on a night out at the local? Stowaway, Stowe Street.

It’s with great pleasure that we take a walk down memory lane, back to the locals of Lichfield - loved and lost.

All of these images were provided by the fantastic local history group ‘You’re Probably from Lichfield, Staffs if…’ For more pictures take a look at their Facebook page, or pop in to one of their meetings. The next meeting takes place on Tuesday 5th April from 7pm at Lichfield Social Club on Purcell Avenue. For more information call 01543 416393 or 01543 268842

Smithfield, Church Street

The Bridge Tavern, St Johns Street

The City Frog, Wade Street

The Malt Shovel, Conduit Street (now Fat Face)

The Trent Valley Hotel

The Castle, Market Street (now Oxfam)

The Turks Head, Sandford Street The Three Tuns, Walsall Road The Prince of Wales, Bore Street The Seven Stars, Stowe Street

The Crown, Bore Street

The Holly Bush, Tamworth Street

Chequers, Stowe Street

Antiques For Everyone Spring Fair

ntiques, art, decorative items and all kinds of rare and unusual objets dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;art go on sale at the spring Antiques for Everyone event at the NEC, Birmingham from 7th - 10th April 2016. Featuring more than 200 specialist dealers, the fair is a major event that brings together collectors, interior designers, decorators, home furnishers and leading dealers for four days of buying, selling, knowledge exchange and great enjoyment for all things cultural. With many thousands of exhibits for sale, at prices from less than ÂŁ20 to more than ÂŁ20,000, and added diversions such as a special feature exhibition and daily celebrity talks, the fair has plenty to offer. The fair is designed to have a wide appeal, for both novice and experienced connoisseurs, occasional collectors and anyone seeking inspiration for home design and decoration. Now in its 31st year, Antiques for Everyone continues to expand its appeal with a greater range of decorative, 20th century and selected contemporary pieces and agricultural subjects.

Special Complimentary Ticket Offer!

To receive free entry for two to this fantastic event (includes free parking at the NEC) just go to antiquesforeveryone.co.uk/CITYLIFE2016 and download your free e-ticket.

Happy Birthday to Hidden Hearing

n April, Hidden Hearing at the Lichfield Hearing Centre is celebrating 12 years of providing excellent service to the people of Lichfield.The friendly and professional team at Hidden Hearing at the Lichfield Hearing Centre have over 40 years of experience in treating all kinds of hearing loss with modern, discreet and lifetransforming hearing aids. Modern hearing aids sit behind the ear, are fixed discreetly to your spectacles or sit within the ear canal (making them invisible). As they are bespoke, and moulded to the exact contours of your ear, and can be personally tuned to your needs, they offer exactly the solution your hearing-loss problem needs. Do you have to turn the television up to hear? Are you avoiding socialising because following a conversation is so difficult? Do you have to ask people to repeat themselves? Do you feel that your hearing loss isolates you from your friends and family? Hearing-loss can be gradual, and something that we ‘put up with’ but left untreated it can impact your life in so many

Jimmy Cricket and Lichfield Gospel Choir

ways. Hearing tests are noninvasive and comfortable to take, allowing Hidden Hearing’s consultants to exactly pinpoint your hearing problem. Do you suffer from tinnitus or ringing in the ears? Hidden Hearing can also alleviate many of the problems associated with this invisible but chronic condition. Don’t suffer in silence – visit Hidden Hearing at the Lichfield Hearing Centre for a free consultation and hearing test. There are no hidden costs and there is no pressure to purchase. Hearing-aids start at just £499, and include a lifetime of free aftercare – that’s help, service, advice and hearing tests 100% free for life. Want to spread the cost of your hearing aid? Payment plans are available. Tony Vaughan RHAD, FSHAA, FDSC and his team look forward to welcoming you, and doing what they do best – providing your ideal hearing-loss solution. “When audiologist Tony Vaughan put some sample hearing aids in my ears... I felt that it was like the sun had just come out.” Jackie Hunt, Sutton Coldfield.

omedian Jimmy Cricket has joined forces with the Lichfield Gospel Choir to raise money for local charities at the Lichfield Garrick on Sunday 24 April. Raising money for Lichfield Foodbank and St Giles Hospice, the event has been put together by Friend of The Lichfield Garrick, Malcolm Flanagan, who is passionately highlighting the good work of these local charities. Malcolm commented: “Putting this evening together with the assistance of Lichfield Garrick Theatre has been a pleasure. Lichfield Gospel Choir, all 80 plus of them, are in rehearsals now, for the first part of the evening. Having known and worked with Jimmy Cricket over many years, his clean comedy is suitable for all the family. All the proceeds are going to Lichfield Foodbank and St Giles Hospice, and all tickets are only £10.” The Charity Concert will take place at the Lichfield Garrick on Sunday 24 April 2016 from 7pm. Tickets cost £10, with all profits going to Lichfield Foodbank and St Giles Hospice.

Book online at

www.lichfieldgarrick.com

or by calling the Box Office on 01543 412121.

£20 million Cathedral Repairs Fund

Images: © Lichfield Cathedral Photographers

It was announced in the Chancellor’s Budget in March that there will be a £20 million fund made available for works to cathedrals.

ollowing the announcement, the Very Revd Adrian Dorber, Dean of Lichfield and Chair of the Association of English Cathedrals said: “We are deeply grateful to the Government for the pledge of continuing funding for Cathedral repairs. Every Cathedral faces steep challenges in keeping this great collection of inspiring and historic buildings safely and properly; whereby we can continue to welcome nearly a quarter of the English population every year. Cathedrals play an important role as community hubs: they foster volunteering, music making,

public debate and social action, alongside their primary task of worship and prayer. They seek to be constantly accessible to the public and offer a setting where some of the big questions in life can be asked, alongside a tradition of wisdom and hospitality that can minister to the diverse needs of all who come. We also play a role in economic regeneration and are increasingly recognised as important contributors to local and regional economies. What we spend on repairs helps us sustain craft skills and local employment.”

In March 2015, Lichfield Cathedral was named as one of 31 cathedrals to receive a grant from the most recent governmentsponsored scheme, the First World War Centenary Cathedral Repairs Fund. The fund was set up to support vital repairs to some of England’s most historic buildings, and Chancellor George Osborne announced grants of between £12,000 and £800,000 for essential repairs. Lichfield received £800,000, the largest of the grants, to go towards the lighting and rewiring project. The Cathedral was facing the possibility of closure without the essential work. This project has now drawn to a close, and on Thursday 17th March the Cathedral hosted a demonstration of the new lighting system. The next major fundraising project for the Cathedral is the Chapter House Appeal, which launched in February 2016. The Cathedral urgently needs to raise funds to reverse serious water penetration and stone erosion on the Chapter House. The structure is built from a number of different types of red sandstone. In recent years, the top layer of stone-work has begun to weaken, and the roof has also started to show signs of significant distress. Both factors now pose a substantial risk to the interior, in particular to the library collection housed on the upper floor. Visit www.lichfield-cathedral.org to find out how to donate.

Sharing Stories at

the Birthplace Museum

A piece of Lichfield’s history has returned to the Birthplace Museum with the donation of a striking bust from antiques dealer and city businessman Brian Carruthers. On Saturday 30th April, the Birthplace Museum will be marking this donation and the recent arrival of a painting of Johnson’s step-daughter and Lichfield resident Lucy Porter in the event ‘Sharing Stories’, a display celebrating the history of the Birthplace building and its surroundings. he parian ware image of Dr Johnson is particularly special because it not only shows Lichfield’s most famous son, but was also produced by the successors of Lomax, a long-standing city business with a rich heritage. Thomas George Lomax (1783-1873) set up business in Lichfield in 1809 as a Printer and bookseller. A man of great standing, he was elected Mayor (then ‘Senior Balliff’) in 1832 and was central to Lichfield life. He also became a great Johnson collector, and his collection and business passed to his son Alfred Charles Lomax after his death in 1873. The younger Lomax went on to become one of the most significant donors to the Birthplace Museum, giving star items including Johnson’s breakfast table, prayer book, writing tablets, many letters and Elizabeth Johnson’s wedding ring. In 1901 Alfred retired and the shop was run by his employees Bull and Wisemen who called themselves “Lomax’s

Welcoming Lichfield Mysteries

Plans are currently being finalised for a free weekend of entertainment in Lichfield over the May Day Bank Holiday weekend .Over 600 people will be involved in Lichfield Mystery Plays on Market Square and in Wade Street Church and additional events will be taking place around the city. he 24 plays will be performed by community groups from around the region and further afield.Chairman Rick Hill OBE said: “We are fortunate to have

successors”. The business finally closed in 1969. The bust dates from 1905 and this is not the first time that a copy of the bust has been on display at the Museum, as early records note that the bust was on display in three sizes, and was put on sale in the Museum – so many early visitors Brian Carruthers, Jo Wilison and Kathy Simmons would have taken it home as a souvenir of printed originally by Thomas George Lichfield. Lomax in the 19th century. ‘Sharing Stories’ will include a photograph This ‘heirloom’ book is available to display by a local history facebook group purchase in hardback at £10.95 (or perfect and an exhibition of items from the bound at £6.95) from Abbotsford Birthplace archive. Entrance is free of Publishing by emailing Kathy Simmons at charge from 10.30am – 4.30pm and kathysimmons746@btinternet.com or by visitors are encouraged to bring along their calling 01543 258903. own items, memories and stories to share To be in with a chance of winning Mr on the day too. Lomax’s Lichfield, just email you name To find out more call 01543 264 972, and contact details to email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk or pop josscitylife@gmail.com or write to Mr into the Museum on the corner of the Lomax Competition, PO Box 7126, Market Square www.samueljohnsonbirth Lichfield, WS14 4JS by the competition place.org.uk closing date of 22nd April.* *Multiple entries will be disqualified and the editor’s Win a Copy of decision is final. ‘Mr Lomax’s Lichfield’ Citylife in Lichfield is delighted to be able to offer Citylife readers the chance to win a copy of the exquisite local history book ‘Mr Lomax’s Lichfield’ by the late Howard Clayton, co-partner of local history publisher Abbotsford Publishing. Mr Lomax’s Lichfield contains a beautifully presented selection of engravings showing views of the city,

so many talented people of all ages and abilities taking part. Directors, back-stage crews and actors are pulling out all the stops to make this a spectacular Mysteries to be enjoyed by all the family free of charge. Our Production Director, Jill Taylor and the management committee have been working towards what they hope will be a memorable Mysteries.” Other events alongside the plays include a photography and art exhibition, poetry performances, storytelling, a puppet theatre and a lunch-time sing-along session. Rick added: “We are extremely grateful to the trusts, organisations and companies, as well as individuals, who are sponsoring the event financially and supporting us in other ways. Without their support it would not be possible to present such a spectacular event.”

Joining the more local groups presenting the plays this year are a group from Wirksworth in Derbyshire, and one from London, whose director and actors originally came from Lichfield, and the award-winning New Vic Theatre’s Borderlines. The event is on Sunday and Monday May 1st and 2nd. An army of volunteers is needed to help over the weekend in various capacities. People who would like to join in should email: sue.hudson60@yahoo.com.

The Shepherds in 2012.

New President for Friends of Lichfield Garrick

he Friends of the Lichfield Garrick recently welcomed international singer Tony Christie as their new President and Tom Roberts as Vice President. Tony’s home is in Lichfield but he is currently touring to promote his latest album. Tom has a long and happy association with the Garrick and can see the benefits of joining The Friends. Priority booking, first night receptions and discount opportunities are just some of the incentives in becoming a member. Tony is pictured with the Chairman of Friends of the Garrick Maureen Woodcock presenting The Friends’ Annual Award for the Best Amateur Musical 2015 to Helen Chave, Chairman of Lichfield Operatic Society, accompanied by Julie Mallaband who directed the winning musical, The King and I. The Society’s next production is Jesus Christ Superstar which opens at the Garrick Theatre on the April 12.

Lichfield Arts concerts in April

pril 2016 definitely has a blue streak in it with Lichfield Arts programme boasting three blues acts, folk royalty at the Cathedral and the first heat of Fuse 2016’s Battle of the

Bands. In the Guildhall on Saturday April 2nd, Maggie Bell and Dave Kelly perform. Dave Kelly is best known as the lead guitarist of the Blues Band but also has a successful career as a solo singer and guitarist. He will be joined for this gig by Maggie Bell most wellknown for her work with Stone the Crows Friday 8th April will see a very special concert from Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham at Lichfield Cathedral. The duo are leading lights in their fields with Aly Bain’s traditional violin playing being more than evenly matched by Phil Cunningham’s prowess as an accordionist and composer. Saturday April 9th, will see something completely different with a performance from popular local blues band The Sleaze Brothers and Friday 22nd April will see a more than welcome return to the Guildhall for the Climax Blues Band. The last event of April will be the U21’s Battle of the Bands, where young bands will compete for their chance to play at Fuse 2016. The evening starts at 5pm. For more information or book at go to www.lichfieldarts.org.uk, call 01543 262223 or visit Lichfield Arts’ box office at Donegal House, Bore Street.

Beautiful Outdoor Spaces in 2016 O

ur gardens are waking up, and you can just feel a hint of summer in the air. No matter how big or small your outdoor space, take a look at these top garden trends 2016 for a little bit of inspiration. Colour and Scent

Big sweeping beds of traditional scented blooms like Phlox, Dianthus, Iris, Sweet William or even Peony add intense colour and an intoxicating scent. For structure experiment with Hydrangea, Gladioli, Foxglove and Lavender - adding drama to any garden (and also attracting bees and other insects).

Monochrome Gardens

All white gardens have been a favourite of grand ‘country house’ gardeners for years, but this planting scheme works just as well in a more compact space, and creates a truly uplifting and tranquil feel.

Mix it Up

With lots of excellent mini or dwarf varieties of vegetables and fruit trees available, mixing edible and cropping plants in with flowers in your garden containers is a great idea. Add herbs with pleasing foliage to patio planters to enjoy their scent on a warm summer’s evening.

Paint it Black

Painting sheds, garden offices, walls and fences a deep colour instantly adds interest to your garden, and gives summer blooms a fantastic backdrop. On trend colours this year are dark gray, blue, green and even black!

Outdoor Living

Use garden and patio furniture mixed with fabrics, scatter cushions and accessories to create a relaxing and socialising space thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just about dining. Fire pits and all kinds of garden heaters are extending the season and garden-friendly LED lighting that can be controlled by your smartphone can turn every garden into a wonderland.

LOCAL NEWS Garrick Joins Forces with St Giles

The Lichfield Garrick has joined forces with St Giles Hospice to offer the families of those receiving care and those who have lost a loved one, some well-needed respite. The Garrick Cares campaign aims to inspire local young people and give them the chance to experience live performances and workshops at the Lichfield Garrick. When booking a ticket at the Garrick you will be given the opportunity to make a donation and to donate a ticket to this campaign. You can also donate independently at the Box Office. Every ticket donated through this campaign will go directly to local people. Expanding the partnership further, the parties have also announced news of a new lottery scheme to enable the Garrick to develop youth and community projects within the Lichfield District. This arrangement means that for every £1 received from players who join the St Giles lottery specifically as part of the new partnership with the Garrick, the theatre will receive 20p. The St Giles Lottery has been incredibly successful since its launch in 1997, raising more than £14 million, which has paid for care and support given to thousands of people free of charge by the hospice. Call the Box Office on 01543 412121 to donate to the Garrick Cares campaign. Leaflets for the St Giles Hospice/Lichfield Garrick lottery partnership can be picked up from the Lichfield Garrick. Alternatively you can call St Giles Hospice Lottery on 01543 434020 for further information.

Miss Lichfield 2016

£1000 of hair and beauty treatments from Lichfield salon NUYU and a designer made-to-measure dress has been pledged by city boutique Bijou at No 15 to the

winner of the Miss Lichfield contest. Gemma has traded from her Tamworth Street shop for four years, stocks items from her own in-house label Bijou Boudoir and her garments have been worn by such celebrities as Mischa Barton and Louisa Lytton. Entrants to the Miss Lichfield contest must be at least 18 years old, be proud of the city and have an appreciation of the Bower's heritage and importance. Successful entries will take part in an exclusive evening at St Johns House on 7th May where the new Miss Lichfield will be unveiled! To assist Miss Lichfield in her duties on Bower Day, Monday, May 30, and throughout the year that follows, organisers are also seeking two ambassadors. They will receive a special prize of an overnight stay for two at St John's House with Prosecco on arrival and breakfast. Entrants must be 18 or over and reside in the Lichfield district. Apply online at lichfieldbower.co.uk/miss-lichfield-2016 or fill in the form enclosing a photo and return to Miss Lichfield Competition, Lichfield Mercury, Ventura Park Road, Tamworth, B78 3LZ.

Celebrating the very first Staffordshire Day!

Community groups from across the county are being invited to join in the celebrations for the county’s first ever Staffordshire Day. Staffordshire Day will take place on Sunday 1 May and is set to become an annual fixture on the county’s calendar, attracting more visitors to the area and helping local residents show their pride in their county. The date, chosen by the public last year, marks the anniversary of the creation of Staffordshire’s world-famous Wedgwood pottery company in 1759. And, as well as a host of events and special offers from many tourism attractions on the day, residents are being encouraged to get involved and organise their own community activities. For more information on Staffordshire Day - what’s going on and how to get involved visit www.enjoystaffordshire.com/staffsday. You can also keep up to date and join in the campaign on Twitter at #staffordshireday.

Karting Time-Travel at Midland Karting

On Saturday April 2nd and Sunday April 3rd, Midland Karting will be celebrating 15 years in business with a Karting Day with a ‘noughties’ twist. In 2001, Midland Karting opened their doors at their site in Fradley Park. Since then the business has welcomed well over 200,000 visitors. On April 2nd and 3rd, prices will be wound back to 2001, with arrive and drive sessions starting at £5. Midland Karting Electric Cub Karts are designed to offer safe and fun karting in electric karts to children from 4 years up and Junior Karts are available from children of 8 years up. Each are on their own dedicated circuits, and Mums and Dads can watch the fun from heated ‘paddock’ areas. With a games room and on-site Pit Stop café, offering everything from snacks to lunches, this is a great ‘kid friendly’ day out. On Saturday 2nd April, Longdon Racing Driver, Greg Owens will also be here, alongside his car. Midland Karting is the main sponsor of Greg and his team in 2016. Greg Owens is set to race for victory in the 4 Two Cup. The 4 Two Cup is a one-make series for the iconic Smart fortwo Brabus. These fully race tuned, 125bhp pocket rockets compete over a 12-race series at some of the UK’s most prestigious race tracks such as Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Donington Park. The Midland Karting Anniversary TimeTravel Weekend takes place on Saturday 2nd April and Sunday 3rd April. To add to the atmosphere they’ll be playing 2001 music, and there’s a free glass of bubbly or bucks-fizz available to all karters*, so come along and help us celebrate this very special event. * Where appropriate

Chairman's civic Sunday lunch

Christopher Pincher MP, Cllr Norma Bacon, Michael Fabricant MP

In a break with tradition, Lichfield District Council’s Chairman hosted a civic Sunday lunch, in place of the annual evening dinner, and has raised more than £600 for charity. Councillor Norma Bacon, Chairman of Lichfield District Council, invited guests to a civic event on Sunday 13 March 2016, held at The Old School House in Weeford. In all, 100 people attended the lunch, which included a three-course meal and a raffle. The civic Sunday lunch was held to raise money for the Chairman's chosen charity, the We Love Lichfield Fund. Councillor Norma Bacon, Chairman of Lichfield District Council, said: “This was a fantastic event, which offered a great opportunity to meet with civic heads from the county, as well as two members of parliament, councillors, representatives from businesses and other organisations. “I would like to thank everyone who helped make it such a success, including buying their tickets to the event, offering raffle prizes and charitable donations, as well as buying raffle tickets, and of course sharing their good company.”

Cycle Rides for All

Cycle Rides for All are free monthly cycle rides that take place towards the end of the month, from March to September. Each month the group cycles to a new destination, including Fisherwick Lakes, Weeford and Packington Moor Farm, Chasewater, the National Memorial Arboretum and Fradley Junction. The rides are graded from level 1, which are suitable for beginners, to level 4, which are for more experienced cyclists. To see the full Cycle Rides for All programme,

please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/ cyclerides To find out more, or to check whether a ride is taking place if the weather is uncertain, please call Freedom Cycles on 01543 411633 or Karl Sproston at Lichfield District Council on 01543 308846. Cycle Rides for All is run in partnership by Lichfield District Council, Freedom Cycles, Bromford, North Lichfield Initiative and Lichfield City Council.

Discovering the world of war

Staffordshire Regiment Museum Discovery Days are a thought-provoking way to learn about the fighting men of Staffordshire, and the lives that they led during the Great War. On Monday 2nd May, the Museum will be holding a Discovery Day – offering a remarkably evocative wartime experience, as visitors are taken down into the Museum’s remarkable and extensive WW1 British and German defensive trench system. The trench system has been built with great attention to detail with original artefacts and signage jostling with soldier’s graffiti, and the sound of bullets and heavy artillery booming overhead. Members of the Museum’s education team, in the uniforms and personas of WW1 soldiers, guide visitors through the twists and turns of the trenches, watching out for snipers, gas and explosions. Ever wondered where a soldier slept or what they ate? This brilliant tour explains wartime experience in a way that is never to be forgotten. With weapons handling and uniform trying-on sessions, and full access to the m u s e u m ’ s collection, this is a great way to learn about life during the Great War. The day starts at 10am and end at 4pm (last tour at 3pm). Tickets are £5 adults, £4 children and concessions and £15 for a family ticket (2 adults and

Image by Terry Figeon

LOCAL NEWS

up to 3 children). For more information contact the Staffordshire Regiment Museum, DMS Whittington, Whittington, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS14 9PY. Tel: 01543 434394. attendant@staffordshireregiment museum.com www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com

Crufts Competition Winners

Congratulatons to Karen Hartley of Lichfield and Don Coton of Shenstone who both won a pair of tickets to Crufts. We hope that you had a great day.

Townswomen's Guild Flower Demonstration

On Monday 11th April at 7.30pm at The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield Townswomen's Guild presents a flower Demonstration by Yvonne Viggers from Excelsior Flowers. Yvonne is the owner of Excelsior Flowers and she will be demonstrating her talents with a range of techniques. The displays will be raffled and auctioned at the end of the evening. For more information go www.the-tg.com or visit the City of Lichfield Townswomen's Guild Facebook page.

Lichfield Folk Dance Club

Lichfield Folk Dance Club meets on Monday evenings in term time in Bader Hall at King Edward’s School. Every week between 40 and 50 members gather together for a couple of hours of fun, fitness and friendship. Lichfield Folk Dance Club dance a variety of dances from England and America, which have their roots in the Country Dances of earlier times. Folk Dancing provides an excellent way of getting both physical and mental exercise in a friendly and supportive environment. Beginners are welcome and no partner.s needed. If you would like to give Folk Dancing a try, come along to Bader Hall on a Monday evening (for an 8pm start) and your first night is free. For further details go to lichfieldfolkdanceclub.co.uk or contact Ken or Carol on 01543 676327. 47

Advertise your event in our what’s on guide for only £3 for up to 100 words max, please contact Joss Musgrove Knibb 07542 522472. (Charities and advertisers may place what’s on listings free-of-charge).

Your Citylife - What’s On in April

Sunday 27th March Easter Sunday Lunch At Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield Tel: 0121 308 3751 and The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield Tel: 01543 414822 Enjoy a delicious lunch with friends and family and make Easter really special. £13.75 (carvery) at The George and from £15.95 at Moor Hall

Friday 1 April Lichfield Waterworks Pumping Station and Cholera in the Black Country, talk by David Moore. At 8pm. Hosted by Staffordshire Archaeological and Historical Society. Meetings held at The Guildhall, Bore Street, Lichfield. Visitors welcome, £3 at the door. Refreshments available from 7.30 pm. For more info call 01543 416144.

Saturday 2nd April Plant Hunters’ Fair at the National Memorial Arboretum DE13 7AR FREE ENTRY to the Plant Fair and Arboretum (P&D parking). Popular plant fair featuring many highly respected specialist nurseries with a great range of perennials, shrubs, trees, rare species and old heritage varieties. Simply something for every plant lover. Nurseries include Special Perennials, Shady Plants, Hill View Hardy Plants, Gobbett Nursery, Forestart, Bridgefarm Nursery, Linda Scott Plants, Chris Cooke Plants, Artisan Plants, Green's leaves, Tissington Nursery, Conquest Plants, Mayfields, Plantazia, Studio 8 Pottery, Orchard Furniture, Hooksgreen Herbs, Hall Farm Nursery, Packhorse Farm Nursery. 10am till 4.30pm. More details www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk

Sunday 10th April Jazz Sunday Lunch 12.30pm at The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield T: 01543 414822. Enjoy a delicious and leisurely 3 course lunch with music from The Three Spires Jazz Band. £21.95 per person

Easter Trail Follow a puzzle trail round Beacon Park. Aimed at children aged 4+. Includes a small prize. Buy your trail for £1 from the ranger station in Beacon Park anytime between 9am and 4pm. At Beacon Park. 9am - 4pm

Sunday 3rd & 10th April Seed Sunday Make a paper pot, plant some seeds and take it away to look after at home. All proceeds go to the Community Garden. £1 for 2 pots. All ages welcome. Community Garden, Beacon Park. 11am till 1pm.

Tuesday 5th April Neaten and Natter Volunteer to help us look after Beacon Park, which could include litter picking and weeding paths. Call 01543 308869 to confirm your place. Community Garden, Beacon Park. 1pm till 3pm

Wednesday 6th April Tales in the Courtyard Lichfield Storytellers. At The Duke of York. Barbecued Husbands with Ana Maria Lines - Brazilian Storyteller. A wife whose head goes wandering off in the night, a girl who becomes a snake immerse yourself, wonderfully, in cultures very different from our own and mythical situations beyond our imagination. Over 18s only. Tickets £5 on the door

Monday 11th April Lichfield Garrick Story Circle A Story Circle is a safe place to sit back and enjoy listening to stories, there is never any pressure to tell. Or come along and tell a tale from you own life, a myth, a legend or a folk tale. This regular gathering will suit anyone who wants to test out their stories in an encouraging environment or those of us who simply want to relax and enjoy listening to a good tale! Contact Maria on info@seeingstories.co.uk Free entry. 7:30 till 8:30pm

Tuesday 19th April Lichfield Civic Society Talk At 7.45pm. Geography and Architecture: The art of place making. Speaker : Professor Peter Krafti. The meeting will take place in The Lichfield Room, Wade St Church Community Hall, Frog Lane, Lichfield, WS13 6HS, and has been arranged in conjunction with the Royal Geographical Society. Admission is free to members. Non-members are always welcome - £3 at the door.

Wednesday 13th April Friends of Letocetum Talks The friends of Letocetum have arranged a series of talks to take place in Wall Village Hall (WS14 0WA). April’s talk is by Jane Evans (Worcestershire County Council, Archives and Archaeology Service) on the subject of Roman Pottery. To book or for info call 01543 418464 or go to www.wallromansitefriendsofletocetum.co .uk. Talk starts at 7.30pm and tickets are £3

Friday 15 April Walney Island Cumbria - a Hidden Home Front - Talk by Dr George Nash. At 8pm. Hosted by Staffordshire Archaeological and Historical Society. Meetings held at The Guildhall, Bore Street, Lichfield. Visitors welcome, £3 at the door. Refreshments available from 7

30 pm. For more info call 01543 416144.

Saturday 16th April Corridor Gallery Photographic Exhibition The Corridor Gallery, Lichfield Guildhall. An exhibition of photographs from around the world by Cross Culture Images. Free.

Thursday 21st April John Starkey Psychic Evening 7pm at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield Tel: 0121 308 3751. Join us for a three course supper and an evening of clairvoyance and mediumship with the internationally renowned psychic, John Starkey. £29.95 per person or £109 for 2, includes an overnight stay.

Sunday 24th April Wedding Open Day 11am – 3pm at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield Tel: 0121 308 3751. See the Charter Suite dressed for a wedding, wander the grounds and chat to our wedding coordinators. Admission free.

Monday 25th April Thalgo Promotion Day at Moor Hall Hotel’s Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield Tel: 0121 334 2323. Book an Anti-ageing facial for only £35 (normally £43) and buy the Collagen Gift Set for the special price of £25 (worth £105).

Tuesday 26th and Wednesday 27th April. Spring & Summer Flower Arranging 10.30am at The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield Tel: 01543 414822. Includes coffee on arrival, a flower arranging demonstration and a three course carvery lunch. £23 per person

Friday 29th April Spring Party Night 7:30pm at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield Tel: 0121 308 3751. Join us at our Spring Party Night for an evening of fantastic food and a disco with an eclectic mix of party tunes. £29.95 per person or £109 for 2, includes an overnight stay.

Vicars Choral of Lichfield Cathedral talk by Michael Guest. At 8pm. Hosted by Staffordshire Archaeological and Historical Society. Meetings held at The Guildhall, Bore Street, Lichfield. Visitors welcome, £3 at the door. Refreshments available from 7.30 pm. For more info call 01543 416144.

Saturday 30th April Family Fun Day At Erasmus Darwin House. Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Lunar society. Join the team at Erasmus Darwin House for the arrival of the original Joseph Wright portrait of Erasmus Darwin, on loan from BMAG, and Erasmus Darwin's 18th century microscope, on loan from Derby Museum. Experience a day of Georgian activities, trails, tea room and much more! Free entry. 11 till 5pm.

Sunday and Monday 1st and 2nd May Plant Hunters Fair at Weston Park, Weston-under-Lizard TF11 8LE Great event with special low price of just £3.00 (less than half standard price) for the plant fair, gardens and parkland. Weston is an award winning stately home set in 1000 acres parkland planted with spring bulbs, bluebells, azaleas and rhododendrons. With miles of woodland walks, lakes and beautiful formal gardens to explore. Plants will be at the heart of the event with a brilliant line up of nurseries with something, new, different and unusual for every plant lover. 10am till 5pm. Details www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk

Event Venues National Memorial Arboretum, Croxall Road, Alrewas, DE13 7AR. Tel: 01283 245100

Duke of York, 23/25 Greenhill, Lichfield WS13 6EB. Tel:01543 307313

Wade Street Church Wade Street, Lichfield, Staffs, WS13 6HL. Tel: 01543 253003 Wall Village Hall, Wall, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS14 0AW Erasmus Darwin House, Beacon St, Lichfield WS13 7AD Tel: 01543 306260

Weston Park, Weston-under-Lizard, Shifnal, TF11 8LE. Tel: 01952 852100

The Lichfield Garrick Theatre, Castle Dyke, Lichfield, WS13 6HR. Tel: 01543 412110 www.lichfieldgarrick.com

The Guildhall, Bore St, Lichfield, WS13 6LU, Tel: 01543 250011

Moor Hall Hotel and Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield, B75 6LN Tel: 0121 308 375, moorhallhotel.co.uk

The George Hotel, Bird St, Lichfield, WS13 6PR, Tel: 01543 414822 www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk

Beacon Park, Lichfield, WS13 6QZ

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Great Experiences at Netherstowe House 01543 257888

rom its exquisite afternoon tea through to its award winning evening meals, Netherstowe House Hotel makes every visitor experience a very unique occasion. Now, enjoying an overnight break at the award-winning hotel and restaurant is easier and even more affordable with the latest dinner, bed and breakfast special offer. At a new fixed rate, this overnight package means you don't need a particular reason to indulge in the highest quality food and excellent service that sees every guest treated as a VIP. Starting at just £185 per room, the offer includes a sumptuous evening dinner, fresh and filling English breakfast and charming double accommodation in one of Netherstowe House's individually designed boutique bedrooms. Alternatively, contemporary courtyard apartments are also available as part of the package. An ideal experience for those celebrating an anniversary, birthday or special occasion, these dinner, bed and breakfast breaks also make the ideal gift for family or friends who deserve a relaxing treat in the tranquil surroundings of this period mansion house. Just over a mile from Lichfield's city centre, Netherstowe House is an enchanting, family run hotel comprising of nine boutique bedrooms in the main house and a further eight contemporary courtyard apartments in the pretty grounds. Lovingly restored with the

elegance of a bygone era it offers an irresistible blend of modern comfort and glamourous decor. Maybe you've an appetite for dining? Netherstowe House has a cosy, candlelit restaurant serving contemporary British food in a relaxed vintage atmosphere. It’s utterly charming, a touch of luxury combined with homely charm. You’ll enjoy five-star hospitality, superb value and gastronomic excellence with the emphasis squarely on fresh, uncomplicated clean flavours. Each of the dining rooms is like a hotel-hug: warm and inviting, luxurious but intimate, and elegant without being pretentious.The approach to this gastronomic hot spot gives a real sense of seclusion which makes it the ideal venue for those looking to indulge in a seasonal soiree and past well known guests who have enjoyed doing just that include Sir Roger Moore, Helen Baxindale and Idris Elba to name but a few. Wonderfully warm and inviting, Netherstowe House is quite unlike any other hotel in the UK. All that’s left, is for you to choose your favourite room. They look forward to warmly welcoming you… To treat someone to a supremely comfortable, vibrant, and uniquely local experience simply contact Netherstowe House Hotel's friendly Hospitality team on 01543 254 270 or email hospitality@netherstowehouse.com . For more information visit www.netherstowehouse.com

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