Citylife in Lichfield September 2017 by Citylife In Lichfield

Inside...

A little thank you from Citylife...

Win £50 to spend with any business advertising in this issue!

September 2017 20 48

20 City Image Competition

Calling all photographers and artists. 24 The Abbots Bromley Horn Dance

By Kate Gomez.

40 A Window on the Past

Lichfield’s City Life

48 The Sheriff’s Ride

The story behind this historic event.

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 is 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; bringing you the best that the city 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 city? We want to hear from you! Our business is bringing you Lichfield’s city life.

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 Lichfield

www.citylifeinlichfieldltd.co.uk Citylife in Lichfield Ltd 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 Lichfield Ltd.

A little thank you from Citylife...

alking down Dam Street a few days ago I was stopped by a couple who'd spotted that I had a copy of the latest issue under my arm. They wanted to let me know how much they enjoyed the magazine, and I spent a very gratifying few minutes chatting to them about what makes Citylife tick, and what we hope to achieve with every issue. I'm delighted and grateful to say that the response from you, our readers, is always so very positive, and we are genuinely privileged to be be doing something we love in a city we cherish.

Citylife in Lichfield Ltd now publish three magazines - Citylife in Lichfield, Citylife in Rugeley and our latest title Living in Tamworth. We hand-deliver 47,000 magazines a month across the region, and we could not do this without the fantastic response and engagement of our readers, advertisers and contributors.

As a celebration of the launch of Living in Tamworth, we're offering our readers the chance

to win ÂŁ50 to spend with any of the advertisers in this issue.

S c a t t e r e d throughout the pages, you will find ten autumn leaves. To be in with a chance of winning, just send your name and contact details, plus the page numbers where you have found each of the ten leaves to Citylife in Lichfield Autumn Leaf Competition, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS or email citylifecompetitions@gmail.com by the competition closing date of Thursday 21st September. The winner will be announced in the October issue. For terms and conditions see page 65.

Have a great autumn - Joss

Congratulations to Trevor White, who gave the correct answer of 'Gazpacho' and solved the anagram in the August issue. Trevor wins Afternoon Tea for Two at McKenzie's Restaurant.

Drive-in Movie Success

eacon Park held its first ever drive-in movie, screening Grease on a giant inflatable screen, on Saturday 12 August. Hundreds of people enjoyed the movie from the comfort of their cars. Many people got into the spirit and dressed up as characters from the cult musical, including T-Birds and Pink Ladies. The event also offered a selection of fairground rides and movie meals and snacks from Lakeside Bistro and a selection of caterers. Councillor Iain Eadie, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, commented: “It was a brilliant evening – watching a film under the stars with family and friends… we’re always keen to get feedback and to hear ideas about the sort of events locals would like to see happening in our parks. We’re also interested in what films you’d like to see at future drive-ins. You can give us your thoughts and film ideas by emailing parks@lichfielddc.gov.uk. Thank you.”

Rolex - Precision and Beauty Combined

By Richard Winterton of Richard Winterton Auctioneers

he company name ‘Rolex’ was registered on 15th November 1915. The company and its subsidiary, Montres Tudor SA design, manufacture, distribute and service wristwatches sold under the Rolex and Tudor brands. Founded by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London in 1905 as Wilsdorf and Davis, Rolex moved its base of operations to Geneva Switzerland in 1919. The first self-winding Rolex wristwatch was offered to the public in 1931, and Rolex participated in the development of the original quartz watch movements. Although Rolex has made very few quartz models for its Oyster line, the company’s engineers were instrumental in the design and implementation of the technology during the late 1960s and early 1970s. In 1968 Rolex collaborated with a consortium of 16 Swiss watch manufacturers to develop the Beta 21 quartz movement used in their Rolex Quartz Date 5100 alongside other manufactures including the Omega Electroquartz watches. Rolex was also the second watch company to create a water resistant wristwatch that

could withstand pressure to depth of 330 feet. Wilsdorf even had a specially made Rolex watch called ‘DeepSea’. Rolex produced specific models suitable for extremes of deepsea diving, caving, mountain climbing etc. Early sports models included the Rolex Submariner 1953 and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Sea Dweller. The second market for ladies’ and gentlemen’s Rolex wristwatches proves that they are still in high demand, with auction markets booming. In recent sales we have achieved amazing prices with live sales across a world-wide market via the-saleroom.com. Recently, an 18ct gold gents’ Rolex OysterPerpetual Day Date wristwatch sold at a hammer price of £4,400; a gents’ stainless steel Rolex Submariner wristwatch sold at £3,000; a 1930s 9ct gold Rolex ‘Prima’ ladies’ wristwatch sold at £540; a 9ct gold 1926 Rolex Oyster Ultra Prima watch face sold at £1,300 and a Rolex Oyster Precision stainless steel gents’ wristwatch, in a presentation box sold at a hammer price £1,350. We have a Clock, Watch and Collectors’ Sale coming up on Wednesday 8th November.

Entries are now being invited. Free valuations are held every Tuesday from 9.30am to 4pm at The Lichfield Auction Centre, Wood End Lane, Fradley Park, Lichfield, WS13 8NF.

Opals

for Librans

If you were born between September 23rd and October 22nd, you were born under the zodiac sign of Libra. Fair-minded, intelligent, diplomatic and interesting, Librans love beauty and equality.

The gemstone associated with Libra is opal – and these stunning stones with their integral fire reflect the intelligence and humour of this most balanced sign.

18ct Yellow Gold Opal and Diamond Ring £395

18ct Yellow Gold Opal and Diamond Drop Earrings £400

Stockist: Salloways Jewellers, Bore Street, Lichfield, WS13 6NA. Tel: 01543 262244 www.salloways.co.uk

18ct Yellow Gold Opal and Diamond Earrings £675

Foot and disc golf!

ichfield District Council is launching two new and fun ways to play golf in Beacon Park. Foot and disc golf facilities are being installed in the park’s 18-hole pitch and putt golf course. Foot golf sees players follow the route of the golf course, but rather than teeing off, they kick a football into larger golf holes in the ground. Disc golf allows players to throw flying discs into special raised nets and also follows the route of the golf course.

The goal of both games is to play each hole or net in the fewest kicks or throws as possible. The player with the lowest total for the entire course wins. It is hoped the two new ways to play a round on the golf course will encourage more people to get fit and active in the council’s Green Flag park.

Work to install the equipment started in August, and players can try out both games from Saturday 2nd September, before the council officially launches the new games later in the autumn. Care will be taken to make sure traditional golf games are not interrupted by the new activities.

From 2nd September you can pay for foot and disc golf and hire equipment from Beacon Park’s Ranger Station (which is next to the golf course). It will cost £8 for adults and £6 for children per 18-holes of foot or disc golf, which includes hire of the equipment (a refundable deposit will also need to be paid). Special rates will be offered if players are competing in more than one activity at a time and 9-hole options and discounts on games will be available for any Leisure Activity Passport holders. To find out more www.lichfieldhistoricparks.co.uk/golf

visit

COSMEDIC SKIN CLINIC At Cosmedic Skin Clinic we are passionate about providing the highest level of treatment in a professional and ethical manner, as well as maintaining standards within the industry. We offer free impartial consultations to all patients to advise which treatments may best suit their needs. The award winning Cosmedic Skin Clinic is owned by Dr Martyn King and Sharon King. Our ethos is to provide a friendly, relaxed and professional environment for all our clients and to treat people ethically, honestly and how we would be expected to be treated ourselves. From our luxurious and upmarket clinic we offer free, nocommitment consultations for all of our treatments and you will find the team extremely knowledgeable and highly trained in all of our procedures and skin care products. We constantly receive extremely positive feedback from our clients and continue to look at ways to offer an even better service. So why not come along and indulge in the Cosmetic experience? You can find Cosmedic Skin Clinic at Prospect House, 13 Albert Road, Tamworth, B79 7JN. For further information, or to book an appointment, please telephone 0845 388 3808 or email info@cosmedic-clinic.co.uk.

Your garden in September A

s the summer draws to a close, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to enjoy the fruits of your labours whilst preparing your garden for the colder, darker months ahead. Even those without a garden can enjoy a harvest crop by heading to woodlands and hedgerows in search of juicy blackberries. Make sure they are picked by 29th September though! Legend has it that after Michaelmas, the devil will have spat on them!

Jobs for September Carry out essential lawn maintenance by aerating it and remove thatch (old grass, moss and other debris) from the surface. Feed with a fertiliser which is rich in potassium and low in nitrogen. Autumn is a good time for lawn establishment and to repair any dead patches, although the cooler, wetter weather should also help with brown areas. Lawns will need less frequent mowing now and lawnmower blades should also be adjusted to raise the cutting height. Sweetcorn and winter squashes should be ready to harvest. If you plan to store the latter, the skin will need to toughen and so once picked, these crops should ideally be left in a dry sunny spot for a week. Autumn-fruiting raspberries will also be ready to pick now. Pick apples and pears before the first frosts. Ripe fruit should come away from the tree with a gentle twist. If you plan to store apples, they should be harvested when slightly under-ripe and stored in a cool location, around 2.5 to 4.5C. Pears should be stored in slightly cooler conditions. Beans and peas will be coming to an end and once they have finished cropping, cut the plant at ground level and leave the roots in the ground as this will help to fix nitrogen into the soil. Start planting spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils, tulips and alliums in beds, pots, or even in lawns for some welcome colour to herald the return of spring next year. Deadhead flowers such as dahlias, roses and pelargoniums as well as any flowers in hanging baskets to ensure a display of colour throughout early Autumn. Plant evergreen trees and shrubs to ensure they become established while the soil is still warm. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t over tidy your patch! Give wildlife a helping hand by leaving some leaf litter for hibernating insects and old flower heads as food for the birds.

Festival Success

The Lichfield Food Festival that took place over the August bank holiday weekend of 26th, 27th and 28th August must surely have been the most successful to date, as the city was filled with fine food and drink and lots and lots of happy visitors.

Canal Trust to create new nature reserve

new nature reserve is to be created at Lichfield’s Fosseway Heath as part of the plan to restore the city’s canal. An £18,500 grant from the Postcode Local Trust, a grant-giving body funded by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, will enable Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust to develop Fosseway Heath Nature Reserve and Wetlands, at the city’s southwestern corner.

The reserve will incorporate a Heritage Towpath Trail along the route of the canal by creating a proper surfaced towpath, giving improved access for all, especially those from the existing and proposed further housing developments near the site. A circuit will provide a wheelchair accessible route with boardwalks through a planned wetland area.

The reserve will play an important role in enhancing an established plan to recreate Staffordshire’s rare lowland heathland, providing another stepping stone for improving biodiversity. LHCRT’s development at Fosseway recognises its importance as a site for linnets, migratory birds and small mammals. The Trust will be working closely with conservation and wildlife experts. Work is expected to start in October and will be completed a year later.

Artist’s impression

City Image Competition calling all photographers and artists!

ver the next few weeks, we’d like to see your photographs, drawings and paintings of Lichfield and the surrounding area. The final winning image (announced in the December 2017 issue) will receive a £200 prize and ‘City Image’ Trophy. The competition closing date is Monday 30th October 2017. For terms and conditions see page 65. The competition is open to all ages. Photographs, paintings and drawings should be of Lichfield city or the surrounding area and countryside. Please note that you should own the copyright to any image that you send in and the image should be your own work. If sending in a photograph, please make sure that you have permission to submit the image from any individual who may be

pictured in your work, and also appropriate permissions if the photograph was taken on private property. To enter, email your images to citylifecompetitions@gmail.com or post them to City Image Competition, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. Apologies but we cannot return images sent to us, so if submitting a drawing or painting you may want to send us photographs of your work rather than original artwork. We have been blown away by the talent of the artists and photographers who have sent us their work so far. We print here a selection of those images that truly capture our beautiful city. Thank you to everyone who has submitted their work.

By Simon Lee Beacon Park butterfly by Susan Murphy

The Bishop’s Palace by night by Dennis Verdon

Copyright of these images remains with the creators and Citylife in Lichfield Ltd and they may not be reproduced by any unauthorised individual or organisation.

Early morning at Shortbutts Park by Jamie Rabin

Cathedral interior by Jamie Checkland

Citylife in Lichfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

City Image Cont...

Sundown by Beth Parker

Darwin Park Cygnet by Martha Shepherd

By Sian Brockhurst

Watercolour painting of Cathedral and Memorial Gardens by Marie Hemming

Beacon Park by Richard Haggett

Lichfield Trent Valley by Neale Hayes

The Abbots Bromley Horn Dance

By Kate Gomez

he Abbots Bromley Horn Dance takes place this year on 11th Monday September. Here, Kate Gomez looks at the fact and folklore behind this fascinating survival. The Abbots Bromley Horn Dance takes place on the Monday nearest to the first Sunday after the 4th of September each year, also known as ‘Wakes Monday’. Just before eight o’clock in the morning, the current generation of horn dancers, comprising of six deermen, a fool, a hobby horse, a bowman, a man dressed as Maid Marian and musicians, collect the six sets of reindeer antlers from the church of St Nicholas in the village. This signals the start of their 10 mile journey around the parish, stopping off at several farms and pubs en-route to perform and partake in some well earned refreshments – the largest set of horns weighs over 25lbs! Lunch is at Blithfield Hall, the historic home of the Bagot family, where members of the public can watch the dance performed on the lawn of the house from below the ha-ha. The origins of the dance are unknown, although some believe it may have been a pagan fertility ritual. Perhaps adding weight to this theory is the fact that ‘Maid Marian’ carries an inflated pig’s bladder on a stick, which is said to enhance the fertility of any woman it comes into contact with! Others have suggested the dance was connected to hunting rights. There is also uncertainty over how old the dance is - there is written evidence of a hobby horse dance taking place in Abbots Bromley in 1532 but the horns themselves are not mentioned until 1686, when Dr Robert Plot described the dance in his book, ‘The Natural History of Staffordshire’. However, thanks to carbon dating carried out when one of the horns was damaged in 1976, we do know that the horns themselves are around 1,000 years old. At the end of the day, around twelve hours after they were first collected, the horns are returned to the church where they remain until the following year’s dance. Although the dance is performed outside the parish boundary on other occasions, a second set of horns is kept for this purpose. There is a story, told by Jack Brown of the English Folk Dance and Song Society, that in the 19th century, the dancers took a set of elk horns to perform in Burton on Trent, but after consuming a considerable amount of rum, managed to ‘misplace’ them. Whether they were stolen or whether they ended up in the River Trent after the dancers decided they were too heavy to carry back to Abbots Bromley, is another of the tradition’s enduring mysteries. Each year visitors come from far and wide to witness this captivating custom, with a lucky few even being invited to participate in the dance. This year’s dance takes place on Monday 11th September and further information, including a schedule of approximate timings for the day, can be found at www.abbotsbromley.com/horn_dance.

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Quaker Memorial Tapestry on Display

n inscription commemorating the award of the Nobel Peace Prize to the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) seventy years ago is recorded on the Quaker service memorial in the National Memorial Arboretum.The memorial itself is now the subject of an original tapestry panel on display, to mark national Quaker week, in Lichfield library between 21st and 23rd September. The tapestry panel, conceived and stitched by members of Lichfield Quaker meeting, along with colleagues from Staffordshire, follows the design of the Quaker Tapestry which is on permanent display in Kendal, Cumbria. It depicts an image of the memorial - a sheltered circle of natural stone from Leicestershire representing the Quaker testimonies to equality and peace, along with the 1947 Nobel Peace Prize citation to service â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;by the nameless to the namelessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the cause of reconciliation. The detailed stitching of the panel, including the unique style of lettering, took longer to complete than constructing the original memorial. The Arboretum memorial records the Second World War service of the two Quaker organisations which provided opportunities for conscientious objectors to military service to relieve the suffering of military and civilian people of all nationalities as they were caught up in the violence. The Friends Ambulance Unit provided immediate medical care in the course of military action; the Friends Relief Service provided support for civilians â&#x20AC;&#x201C; residents, and those displaced by the German occupation of the continent. In the exhibition, standing banners from the Quaker Service Memorial Trust describe this work in more detail; the full exhibition will be on display in the cathedral next year. Quakers meet for silent worship in Martin Heath Hall, Christchurch, Leomansley, every Sunday.

Celebrating 308 years of Samuel Johnson

he Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum is celebrating the birthday of one of Lichfield’s most famous sons with a free slice of cake for all visitors and activities throughout the day on Saturday 23rd September as part of Lichfield’s city-wide Heritage Weekend.

The Museum on Breadmarket Street will be open from 10.30am till 4.30pm and admission, as always, is free of charge. A slice of Birthday cake supplied by local bakery Hindleys will be available for all visitors (while stocks last!). The historic house will be decorated by Flower Design of Lichfield. In addition everyone is invited to ensemble on the Market Square at 12 noon when the civic party and Johnson Society members will gather to watch the Mayor lay a wreath on the statue of Johnson, accompanied by traditional hymns from St Michael’s Choir. The ceremony will be followed by an afternoon of entertainment on the Market Square including performances from Intimate Theatre at 12.45pm, the City of Lichfield Concert Band, and the annual Young Town Crier Competition and more.

This year the Birthplace will also be celebrating the birthday of Johnson’s great friend David Garrick, who was born 300 years ago and grew up in Lichfield Cathedral Close. Visitors to the

Museum can enjoy a Garrick dressing-up box, complete with stage to perform on and hands-on costume activities. Elsewhere in the city, the Old Prison Cells at Lichfield Guildhall will be open on Saturday from 10am till 4pm and Sunday 24th from 11am till 3pm. Look out for the ‘Black Country Players’ around the streets on Saturday who will be on the look-out for new recruits to join their regiment!

The Johnson Society will also be marking Johnson’s Birthday with their traditional supper at Lichfield Guildhall on the Saturday evening. Current President, bestselling author Margaret Drabble will hand over her badge to the President elect Michael Bundock. Bundock is the author of ‘the Fortunes of Francis Barber’. For more information pcall 01543 264 972, visit the Museum website at samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk or email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk

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Ancient Japanese ivories discovered in Lichfield

By Hansons Auctioneers

carved collection of ancient ivory that could fetch up to £5,000 at auction has been unearthed in Lichfield. The array of antique ivory was discovered at a private house by Hansons Auctioneers.

Hansons’ associate director Adrian Rathbone, who assessed the collection, said: “All the pieces are Japanese dating from the Meiji period of 1868-1912. This was a time when the ivory carvers were at the height of their skills. The pieces include intricately carved fruit sellers, a geisha, a fisherman and an unusual pagoda. The detail and artistry is quite astonishing. For me, the highlight is a realistic crayfish with articulated body and legs. It is also signed. Despite uncertainty surrounding antique ivory, demand is still strong and the collection could fetch in excess of £5,000. Ivory is, of course, quite rightly protected but it is possible to sell antique ivory as long as it was carved before 1947.” The collection of ivory will be in Hansons Auctioneers Asian Art Auction on 29th September. Anyone who has worked antique ivory or other Asian artefacts such as porcelain are invited to consign into the 19th December Asian Art Auction. Entries close 4th December.

If you think you may be sitting on antiques, treasures or collectables of any kind, Hansons holds free valuation days every Monday at the Hedgehog Inn, Stafford Road, Lichfield, WS13 8JB, from 10.30am-

12.30pm. Free home visits can be arranged for large/multiple items, estate clearance or downsizing advice. To find out more, call 01283 733988 or email service@hansonsauctioneer.co.uk.

Fun Day Round Up D 30

espite the odd spot of rain, children and their families came along to Beacon Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fun Day on Wednesday 2 August. Organised by Lichfield District Council, there was a lot of fun to be had at the annual Fun Day, with games and activities, such as giant snakes and ladders, hula hooping, a barefoot walk, lots of stalls, a bouncy castle and carousel, a Super Tramp bungee trampoline, a mini steam train and much more. Children and their favourite teddy bears also took part in the Teddy Games, including Ted on the Head, the Teddy Sprint, Teddy Wanging and the Prewalkers Crawling Race. A range of mascots competed in the final race, which featured a giant pink punctuation mark from Health Watch Staffordshire, a mansize dog from Guide Dogs, Warren Beacon Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s giant blue bunny, and Ranger Ted who won the race.

Advertising feature

Opticians can do so much more than just eye tests and glasses…

…says Clive Marchant, managing director of Colin Lee Opticians.

All our practices provide a full range of additional NHS and private services. These include a new Minor Eye Conditions service funded by the NHS and available on demand at participating practices.

The introduction of this service means that people with red, sore eyes, eye injuries or sudden loss of vision can now be seen locally instead of going to the doctor or hospital. Children’s eye care is essential for development and attainment at school, the supply of spectacles can only be carried out or supervised by a registered dispensing optician, always check you are getting this essential professional service. Why wear spectacles when you could wear contact lenses? Almost everyone is suitable, from young to old, even if you need varifocals! Dry Eyes? Don’t suffer in silence or spend a fortune on drops that may not work. All

our practices offer specialist dry eye assessment and treatment programmes. Other services include: Diabetic Eye Screening Cataract co-management Specialist glaucoma care Hearing Tests Orthoptic assessments and treatment In some areas optical practices are offering blood pressure monitoring, weight loss advice and smoking cessation services. Opticians are more than just spectacle sellers, we are a vital part of the local health community.

2018 and will once again start in Beacon Park Lichfield, and finish in the grounds of Tamworth Castle. Registration opened on 3rd August and this year’s £25 entry price includes a finisher’s tshirt, a goodie bag and, new for 2018, a medal. Runners must be aged sixteen or over.

Other new features for 2018 include fun runs for children and juniors in the Castle Grounds with an even bigger family fun day at the finish line in Tamworth Castle grounds park. The ten mile route has been carefully mapped out and crosses a variety of terrain including Lichfield City Centre, Ministry of Defence Land at Whittington Barracks and Hopwas Woods. This year’s run also takes in the Cathedral Close in Lichfield.

Once again, all proceeds will be donated to four charities to be chosen by the Rotary clubs and runners are welcome to raise additional sponsorship money for charities of their own he Lichfield Cathedral to Tamworth Castle ten mile charity run will be back choosing. A variety of sponsorship packages are in 2018 with more than double the amount of spaces. After a successful available for 2018 and any businesses interested first year, which saw the event sell out in just six days, the four Rotary clubs are asked to email sponsorship@c2crun.co.uk. of Tamworth and Lichfield have joined forces again to organise a bigger event. The To register for the 2018 Cathedral to Castle Run amount of available places has been extended from 500 to 1,200, giving more or for more information on the event, please visit people the chance to run this iconic course, linking the two historic monuments. www.c2crun.co.uk

Cathedral to Castle Run

The 2018 Rotary Cathedral to Castle Run will take place on Sunday 8th April

Looking for a Forever Home H

ere, Cats Protection Lichfield and Tamworth Branch tells us a little of what they do to help and support our feline friends, and introduces us to some beautiful cats who are looking for a new forever home…

From humble beginnings in 1927, Cats Protection has grown to become the UK’s leading feline welfare charity. We help around 200,000 cats and kittens every year through our network of over 250 volunteer-run branches and 32 adoption centres. Cats Protection also promote the benefits of neutering to prevent unwanted litters from being born and becoming the abandoned cats of tomorrow, and seek to educate people of all ages about cats and their care. The Lichfield and Tamworth branch have a small number of fosterers

Lichfield Proms

ichfield Proms will take place in Beacon Park on Saturday 2 September 2017. Now in its nineteenth year, Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park brings thousands of people together from across the region to enjoy an evening of music, picnicking and a firework finale.

While it’s a free event, and everyone is welcome to bring their own seating and picnic blankets, for £12.50 music lovers can book prime seats at tables in front of the stage. This year’s concert will feature music from the City of Lichfield Concert Band and The British Police Symphony Orchestra. The night will be brought to an end with a firework finale and rousing proms anthems. The event also includes activities for children, food and drink stalls and a proms shop, where concert-goers can stock up on their patriotic flags and hats. Prime seats cost £12.50 each and can be bought in fours or sixes. To reserve a table in the prime seating area, go to www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/lichfieldproms to find out how to book and pay online, alternatively call Lichfield District Council on 01543 308863 or email proms@lichfielddc.gov.uk. Parking will be available on the night at Beacon Park for a donation of £5, which includes a Lichfield Proms programme.

who look after cats and kittens that come into their care until they are found their new forever homes. When a cat comes into branch it is vet checked within the first few days, it will then receive its first vaccination and will be neutered and microchipped before it is ready for homing. Kittens will receive their first vaccination and if they are old enough they will also be neutered and microchipped. There are several cats and kittens available for adoption at the moment, a few being Cheeky and Patch (mother and son), Treacle, Pepper and Dobby, plus several black kittens of varying ages. During September Cats Protection Lichfield and Tamworth Branch will be appealing for people with a variety of skills and a love of cats to volunteer for the charity. People from all walks of life are encouraged to contact Cats Protection to find out how they can help unwanted and abandoned cats in their area. Volunteers are desperately needed including various opportunities within our fundraising team; helping trap, neuter and return; fostering; events co-ordinator; home visitors and educational speakers. If you have time to spare and would love to get involved please get in touch via our email address at lichtamcats@gmail.com, by phone on 0345 371 2741 or visit our stall in Market Street, Lichfield on the 9th September. There will be a similar function within Tamworth in October.

Free Spirit cheque presentation

ecently, Lichfield District Council’s former Chairman presented a cheque to his chosen charity Free Spirit. In his year as the Chairman of Lichfield District Council, Councillor David Salter raised £1,303 for the charity. The cheque was presented to Tracy Francis, from Free Spirit, who was joined by riders from Gartmore Riding School.

Free Spirit is the charity that is working to raise funds to create a life-sized bronze statue at the National Memorial Arboretum that acknowledges horses’ unfaltering service to mankind. To find out more about Free Spirit, or to make a donation, please visit www.freespiritmemorial.co.uk

A Night at the Flamingo

e-visit the sounds and excitement of one of Soho’s iconic music venues of the early 1960s in the company of Ricky Cool and the In Crowd, when the group presents A Night at the Flamingo at Lichfield Guildhall on Friday September 15th. ‘Rhythm and blues’ will be served up with a side order of classic early Jamaican grooves, just as it was at the Flamingo’s legendary ‘All Nighters’ when Georgie Fame and the Blue Flames were the resident band. The Flamingo opened as a modern jazz club in the 1950s and soon became famous for its Friday and Saturday all night sessions. Not only was the Flamingo Club a home for the burgeoning Mod scene of early ‘60s it also boasted a cosmopolitan clientele where American GIs would rub shoulders with pop stars, actors, socialites and gangsters. It even played its own small part in one of the biggest political scandals of the 1960s – The Profumo Affair. Tickets are £15, £13.50 for Friends of Lichfield Arts, and £7.50 for under 16s. For further information, and to book tickets visit www.lichfieldarts.org.uk, phone (01543) 262223, or call into the Lichfield Arts Box Office in Donegal House on Bore Street.

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Tomato and Courgette Chutney T

his month Annamarie from Woodhouse Farm and Garden shares one of her favourite seasonal recipes with us.

So, what's a girl to do with no internet and a glut of produce in the garden? If you have been lucky enough to escape blight on your tomatoes, around now you should have a healthy number of red ones. I love tomatoes as they are very easy to work with and even skinning them is not that bad! All you need is a bowl and a kettle of boiling water*. Pop the tomatoes into a bowl and cover them with the hot water. Leave for a couple of minutes until you see the skins start to crack. Remove from the water with a slotted spoon and the skins should peel off easily.

Something else that may be growing out of control in your garden is courgettes. One of my favourite ways to use up a glut of tomatoes and courgettes is this simple chutney recipe. Use 1kg of tomatoes, 250g of courgettes, 250g of onions, 150g of demerara sugar, 1 1/2 tsp salt, 1tsp ground cumin, 1tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp paprika and 300ml of malt vinegar. If you have a gluten allergy you can use cider vinegar as an alternative. There is no need to skin the tomatoes, just chop them up along with the onion and courgette (the more finely you dice the vegetable, the smoother your chutney will be!). Add the chopped vegetables, salt, spices and half the vinegar to a pan, bring to the boil and simmer for 30 minutes. Then add the sugar and the remaining vinegar and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Simmer the chutney uncovered until it thickens and there is no excess liquid on surface. To store the chutney (most chutneys are better for a bit of time maturing) you will need glass jars with good fitting lids. Wash them well and then put the jar and the lids on a tray in a low heated oven for 15 minutes. Pack the warmed jars with hot chutney and seal them carefully. Be careful to use a cloth when touching jars as they will be very hot. You can use marrow as an alternative to courgettes but they will need to be peeled first.

* Always take extra cae when working with hot ingredients

A Window on the Past

Lichfield City Life

It always strikes me how certain shops and businesses become landmarks in their own right. We may not always know road names if it’s an area we’re a bit unfamiliar with, but often we’ll recognise the name of the pub on that road. Often places are still known and named colloquially after businesses that have been gone for years – in Lichfield, Woolies’ car-park is a good example.

In this issue, the local history group ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if…’ take us on a mini tour of businesses now long-gone, but still very much part of our ‘mental maps’ of the city.

1. The Battery Service Company, Walsall Road (pre-fire) – image courtesy of Dave Elson 2. The Battery Services Company after the fire of 1965 – image courtesy of Dave Elson

3. G H Jones Garage, Bore Street, during demolition in the early 1960s 4. The popular Sefton Café, St John Street

5. Rumbelows, Market Street in the 1960s

6. The old Redcourt House Doctors’ surgery which closed in the late 1970s – image courtesy of Brian Sanders

7. Quantrills butchers on Tamworth Street (demolished in the 1960s to make way for the new Bakers Lane shopping

precinct) – image courtesy of Mr Peter Brumby

8. Road-mending on Boar Street C1930

9. Needlecraft Fabrics on Boar Street in the 1960s 10. Hosiery House on Bore Street in the 1950s

For more stories, pictures and memories, visit the group’s Facebook page ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if…’ or go along to their next meetings on Tuesday September 5th and Tuesday 3rd October, 7pm till 10pm, at Lichfield Social Club, Purcell Avenue, Lichfield, WS13 7PH. For more information call 015434 16393 or 01543 268842. The group’s great displays of local photographs and memorabilia can be booked free of charge to appear at shows, nursing homes and clubs etc.

Do you have some snaps of Lichfield looking for a home? You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if… are always looking for images and memorabilia to add to the group archives.

10 9

Advertising feature

The Perfect Autumn Home with Gem Carpets and Beds

Thinking of treating your home to an Autumn-makeover? Then visit Gem Carpets & Beds. Gem Carpets & Beds stock a fantastic range of great quality and value beds and carpets, and their helpful and knowledgeable staff are always on hand for advice.

Gem have been established for over 30 years and have four branches at Lichfield, Rugeley, Walsall Wood and Heath Hayes. They are experts at providing exactly what you need, all within your specified budget.

There’s an incredible selection of carpets and beds to choose from within each 20,000 square ft. showroom; including over 2,000 carpet roll ends in stock (and up to 70% off certain lines) plus over 80 beds on display alongside a great range of bedroom furniture (at the Walsall Wood, Heath Hayes and Rugeley stores).

Gem will beat any like-for-like quote and they also offer free estimates and a fast fitting service. To make your shopping experience as hassle free as possible, there's free parking at all their stores.

For store details, see Gem's advertisement in this issue. Autumn is the perfect time for a house makeover from Gem! For more information go to gemcarpetsandbeds.co.uk. Watch out for ‘Georgie Gem’ the eye-catching figure outside each branch!

What’s On in Autumn and Winter

isit Lichfield and tourism providers launched the city’s What’s On brochure at Erasmus Darwin House on 23 August 2017. What’s On lists all the big autumn events, such as Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park on 2nd September, and Lichfield Heritage Weekend on 23rd and 24th September. This year’s Heritage Weekend theme is Garrick 300, marking the 300th birthday of David Garrick – the famous actor, theatre manager, playwright and superstar of the Georgian stage.

It also list information on Halloween and fireworks night events, such as Erasmus Darwin House’s Creepy Cellars and Ghoulish Games, and Visit Lichfield’s Gruesome and Ghostly guided tours that take place throughout the season. Autumn also sees Lichfield Cathedral hosting the Discovering Elias Ashmole exhibition to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Elias Ashmole’s birth in Lichfield.

The festive season is covered, with details on Lichfield’s Christmas Lights Switch On on 26th November, and the Lichfield Christmas Festival, featuring markets,

entertainment and family activities, running over two weekends in December plus carol concerts, the Lichfield Garrick festive pantomime, Aladdin and much more.

What’s On brochures have been sent to local homes and are also available at Tourist Information in Lichfield Library on The Friary and other visitor attractions. You can also download a copy from www.visitlichfield.co.uk/download or see online events listings at www.visitlichfield.co.uk/events.

Happy 10th Anniversary to The Fireplace

In September 2007, Russell and partner Sue opened The Fire Place, and the business has been flourishing year on year ever since. In September, The Fire Place will be celebrating a decade in business - offering a fantastic range of fireplaces, gas fires, wood burners and electric fires to a wide customer base across the Midlands. Russell and Sue are very pleased with the way the business has grown - the business has increased year on year since 2007 and has completed over 7000 jobs in this time.

The Fire Place offers a complete service covering all aspects of installation, and including free surveying (within 20 miles), fitting, any allied building work and rubbish removal.

On arrangement, Russell will come to your home and advise on flue types/ventilation and fitting fees. He will be able to tell you what you can and cannot have, (but usually if you want something, Russell will be able to provide it).

The Fire Placeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s range includes fireplaces in natural stone, marble and wood etc. They have around 70 displays (most of which are working fires). They offer a range of efficient contemporary gas fires which can be fitted on any external wall or within a standard chimney breast. They also offer a wide range of multi fuel and wood burning stoves including Contura, HETA and Purevision. In addition, they offer contemporary electric fires by Evonic and Flamerite.

Russell and Sue can't believe that a decade has passed so quickly and will strive to continue the success of the first 10 years. Their opening hours are 9.30am - 4.30pm, Monday to Friday, and 10am - 4pm Saturday (closed Sundays and Bank Holidays). Feel free to pop in and browse around the showroom. Tel: 01543 263383.

Huddlesford Heritage Gathering

he Huddlesford Heritage Gathering is held biennially and organised jointly by Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust and Lichfield Cruising Club. It brings together historic boats, floating traders, private boats and classic vehicles, with exhibitors and displays on the field, near Huddlesford Junction on the Coventry Canal.

Activities include Emma’s Crafty Kids, boat trips and rides on a steam train and a traction engine, face-painting, and the chance to operate one of the Trust’s diggers. Entertainers will be providing music on stage throughout the weekend, with tickets sold separately for an evening event 46

featuring Wildfire Folk and Chase Mist and including a pig roast.

Floating traders will be offering everything from home-brew to cheese, antiques and sweets, while exhibitors on the field and in the marquee will be showing off jewellery, leather goods, farm and garden produce and a variety of arts and crafts. There will also be a chance to see a display of birds of prey and to meet some wonderful wildlife.

Music, entertainment, food and a bar will be available all day, and a Sunday service will be held at 9.30am by the Boaters Christian Fellowship led by David Litchfield.

Huddlesford Heritage Gathering will be open to the public on September 23 and 24, from 10am. Admission is £4 with children under 12 free if accompanied by an adult. Tickets for the evening entertainment will be sold separately for £15. Car parking is free. For more information visit the Trust website at www.lhcrt.org.uk/hhgnews.htm.

Competition Winners

Mtech Driving Experience Congratulations to P. Silverwood, winner of a Formula Renault 12 Lap Driving experience courtesy of Mtech.

Arthur Price, Sophie Conran Cutlery Set Congratulations to Mrs L Mead, Mr A Rodwell, and Ms A Scandrett who are all winners of a Sophie Conran 24 Piece Cutlery Set, courtesy of Arthur Price.

L2F Ceilidh with the Reel Hot Ceilidh Peppers

he L2F Ceilidh with the Reel Hot Ceilidh Peppers will take place at Lichfield Guildhall on Friday 22nd September at 7.30pm. The Reel Hot Ceilidh Peppers play fun and lively barn dance and ceilidh music. They have many years experience in providing barn dances and ceilidhs, and a passion for all things relating to folk music and dancing. Lichfield Arts Artistic Director Chris Newcombe commented: “Ceilidhs are a fun way to exercise to lively music, and to have a good time. If you want to try something new, bring along your friends, and we can guarantee a fun evening for everyone.” Tickets for the Ceilidh are £6 (under 16s £3). For tickets and further information, visit lichfieldarts.org.uk, call 01543 262223, or drop into the Lichfield Arts Office in Donegal House on Bore Street.

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01543 255776

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FRONT COVER IMAGE. Dam Street - a painting by Carl Knibb ARBSA. Copyright Carl Knibb.

Cllr Bob Awty who was Sheriff of Lichfield in 2014

The Sheriff’s Ride

he Sheriff’s Ride has taken place every year since 1553, when Queen Mary’s charter separated the city from the rest of Staffordshire. As a county in its own right, Lichfield had its own Sheriff and each year he was required to, ‘perambulate the new County and City annually on the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary’. In the early years of the tradition, a member of each household was required to accompany the Sheriff so that the boundaries of the city were common knowledge, something which could be called upon as evidence in case of a dispute. 48

The Ride is still open to the public and each year, a large group on horseback join the Sheriff on the 20 mile route which now forms the boundary of the City of Lichfield. Although it now starts at the Guildhall, the oldest known description of the route, then a circuit of ‘just’ 16 miles, tells how the ride would begin and end at a place, ‘called the Cross and Hand Lane near the end of a street there called Bacon Street’ (or Cross in Hand Lane off Beacon Street, as we know it today!). Within the description, believed to date back to the late 18th century, are other place names which will be recognisable to modern Lichfeldians. ‘Collin’s Hill Field’, ‘Scott’s Orchard’ and ‘Dean’s Slade’ appear alongside now forgotten names such as ‘Hic-

Sheriff's Ride 2013

Filius’ and ‘God’s Croft Hedge’. The boundary was once marked by white wooden posts marked with the letter L, although following the 1879 Ride, it was reported that the Sheriff had found it difficult to perambulate the boundary satisfactorily as 27 of the 40 markers were missing!

The 464th Sheriff’s Ride takes place on Saturday 9th September 2017, leaving the Guildhall at 10.30am and returning via Beacon Street around 6.15pm. For more information, please visit www.lichfield.gov.uk

Our month on the farm H

By Annamarie Stone

ere Annamarie Stone tells us what has been happening down on Woodhouse Farm in August.

Woodhouse Farm is a hive of activity once more, with Penelope (the only pig we actually knew was expecting!) producing 11 pink, black and spotted piglets one Monday evening. I got the early shift between 8 and 10pm with Andrew taking over to do the late shift until 2am in the morning and we still woke up to an extra delivery!

So, what of our other deliveries? Back in May we had four sows who produced 33 piglets between them. All piglets have now been weaned on to their own larger rations of food with their mums going for a well earned rest in a new fresh paddock with lots of grass. The pigs were not the only animals on the farm enjoying new grass - our small herd of rare breed Irish Moiled Cattle have also changed fields. However, that particular move did make our lives a bit easier as the three youngest cows had worked out how to get through the fence and liked to come and meet us!

Over in the walled garden, our attention has turned to pruning. The first trees to be cut back are the apples and pears followed by the stone fruit - peaches, nectarines, plums and cherries. Pruning work will continue until mid-September. Other jobs in the garden in August included planting out cabbages and salad leaves but for the most part this month is about reaping the rewards of all the hard work Andrew, Allan and our small band of volunteers have lavished on it. There is a bounty of fruit and vegetables including blackberries, figs, raspberries, tomatoes, an assortment of beans and greens plus the more unusual aubergine, chillies and peppers. So much is being produced that my thoughts turn to how to use and store the excess beyond what will be required for the

members of our Community Supported Agricuture Scheme and farm sales. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been getting inspiration from old recipe books, and have been jamming, chutney making, pickling, bottling and making cakes with fruit and vegetables. Give it a go yourself! Courgettes are lovely in chocolate cake and tomato chutney and sauce are so different to anything you'll buy in the supermarket.

However, as is always in the garden there is no time to rest as we begin to prepare for next year - sowing spring cabbage, chicory and endive as well as more salad leaves for the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hunger gapâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the spring when far less fresh produce is available.

Woodhouse Farm and Garden is open to the public between 11am and 4pm every Friday and Saturday and is located just off Fisherwick Wood Lane, on the outskirts of Whittington. www.woodhousefarmandgardencic.org.uk

Strong results for Cathedral School

Lichfield Cathedral School students celebrated another set of excellent GCSE results today, with a 100% pass rate maintained for the eighth year in a row, and nearly 20% of all grades were A* or A.

Headmistress Susan Hannam commented: “I am so proud of everyone for what they have achieved; they thoroughly deserve these strong results which are the platform for students to continue their educational careers in the Sixth Form. These outcomes are a result of the hard work of the students, the support of their family and friends and the dedication of the staff at the school. Whilst acknowledging the substantial achievements of the most able is very important, what gives me the greatest pleasure is the consistent progress that our students make irrespective of their ability or starting point. Behind every set of examination results is a personal story of hard work, commitment and perseverance which we are delighted to celebrate. I feel very privileged to be a part of such an

inspiring school community.” Deputy Head Andrew Harrison, added: “While we were thrilled with the overall performance of the year group, there were some noteworthy individual successes. Lucy Windsor achieved six A* and four A grades; Anisha Jordan achieved four A* and four A grades; Henry Wade gained six A and four B grades and Max Middleton achieved four A and six B grades. We are equally proud of the students who have met or exceeded the targets that have been set for them. Achieving these targets takes just as much hard work and commitment from our staff and students and we are delighted to see so many achieving the grades that allow them to move on to the next phase of their education successfully.”

Results for French, Spanish and German were particularly strong, with 45% of all GCSE language grades being either A* or A. Alicia Gilbert and Holly Mackey gained A* in both French and Spanish.

Comedy 42 at The Garrick C

omedy 42 brings the best comedians from across the country to the city, and features household names and award-winning rising stars. This September’s line-up presents Tony Law, Matthew Hollins and Jessica Fostekew. Headlining this month’s show is Tony Law. The Canadian comic is described as a “maverick truth slinger of ridiculousness for the people. Hysteria for nurses, mothers and plumbers and important nonsense for all”. Tony is a regular on TV screens having appeared in BBC 1’s Have I Got News For You, Channel 4’s 8 Out of 10 Cats and BBC’s Never Mind The Buzzcocks. Joining Tony will be Leicester comedian, Matthew Hollins, Winner of the Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year 2004, and, Jessica Fostekew, who has appeared in BBC 1’s Three Girls and Channel 4’s National Treasure. The regular sell-out monthly comedy night is compared by Lichfield comedian Chris Purchase, What’s On magazine’s Best Comedian finalist 2016 & 2017. Comedy 42 will be at the Lichfield Garrick’s Studio Theatre on Friday 15th September at 7.30pm, tickets are £16.50. For more information visit www.lichfieldgarrick.com or call the box office on 01543 412121.

Tony Law

Matthew Hollins

100% A Level Success across all subjects at Wolverhampton Grammar School

It's a clean sweep of A Level passes at Wolverhampton Grammar School this year as students receive a collection of outstanding exam results. Sixth Formers have achieved an overall 100% pass rate with over a third achieving coveted A* or A grades - all well above the national average. Pupils from the School - recently judged "Excellent" in all areas following an inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate achieved a 100% pass rate in 23 subjects including Maths and Further Maths, Classics, French, German, History, Business Studies, Economics, Psychology, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Music, Art, Design & Technology, Government & Politics, English Literature and English Language, ICT, Italian, PE, Religious Studies and Theatre Studies. 90 Upper Sixth Form students have studied towards an impressive total of 268 A levels this year across a diverse and broad range of subject areas. All students have the opportunity to study at least three A levels at Wolverhampton Grammar School, with some choosing to go the extra mile with a fourth subject. Kathy Crewe-Read, Head of Wolverhampton Grammar School commented: "Competition for places on competitive university courses remains fierce and schools like ours work hard to ensure an excellent student experience. Our students have successfully gained places on a range of excellent courses."

As well as A level subjects, students at the School also get the opportunity to undertake an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and have access to over 100 extra and co-curricular activities - the largest range clubs and societies available locally. This ensures that with increased pressure for the best university places our students have a broad range of A level choices to choose from and the skills to make them attractive to employers and universities alike. Wolverhampton Grammar School is one of the leading coeducational independent schools in the region and the top independent school in Wolverhampton. Students celebrating A level success this week represent all those talented, hard working graduates from Wolverhampton Grammar School who go on to contribute so much to society. If you are a Year 11 student and would like to consider joining us in the Sixth Form in September, contact the Admissions Registrar, Mrs Jane Morris telephone: 01902 422939 or email: jam@wgssch.net as soon as you have your results on Thursday 24th August Wolverhampton Grammar School also has an Open Day on Saturday 7th October, from 11am-3pm for any families wanting to learn more about joining our Junior, Senior and Sixth Form in September 2018.

Advertising Feature

Perfect Festive Dining A

few years ago, I decided that this year I wasn’t going to spend my Christmas Day morning working out hundreds of cooking times and struggling with a turkey the size of a small sofa – instead, our family went out en-mass for lunch. It was heaven. No washing up, no tidying up, and no need to wonder what on earth I was going to do with the red cabbage, brandy butter and bread sauce that everyone says they want but no-one actually eats!

If you’re looking for a venue for the perfect Christmas lunch, festive dinner with family or friends or work-place celebration, take a look through our guide to the perfect festive dining experience.

Joss

Advertising Feature

Christmas at The George Hotel The George Hotel on Bird Street is the perfect place to enjoy a Christmas celebration this year with friends and work colleagues. Pre-Christmas, you can let your hair down and dance the night away at one of the popular Christmas Party Nights, or enjoy a quieter celebration in the restaurant. At lunchtime there’s a traditional carvery featuring succulent roast turkey with all the trimmings, and in the evening you can enjoy the best of modern British food in Darwin’s restaurant with an à la carte menu and a Celebration menu for just £21 for three courses. The George is open on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve for bookings and there is also a packed programme of special festive events including Murder Mystery Evenings, a Senior Citizens’ Lunch, a Santa Sunday Lunch, Christmas Flower arranging and ‘Christmas Carols & Afternoon Tea’. If you’re out and about in Lichfield, the bar at The George is the perfect spot to enjoy your favourite tipple at any time of day, and if gin is your thing, you’ll be spoilt for choice as there are over 30 premium gins to choose from on the menu! For more details of The George’s full Christmas programme, pop in to the hotel on Bird Street or visit www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk.

Christmas & New Year at The Cathedral Hotel Sister hotel to The George in Bird Street, the Cathedral Hotel is within a few minute’s walk of Lichfield’s Cathedral. There are plenty of reasons to celebrate at The Cathedral this Christmas and the hotel also offers great value rates for overnight stays if you are partying in Lichfield this December. Christmas Party Nights Celebrate in style at one of the hotel’s popular Christmas party nights which include a three course buffet and disco until 1am for just £19.95 per person or £105 for two people with an overnight stay. Private Christmas Parties The Ashmole Suite is the perfect place for private dinners and parties as it accommodates up to 120 guests in comfort. Christmas Voices Intimate Theatre’s very popular Christmas Voices will be performed at The Cathedral Hotel this year on Sunday 3rd, Monday 4th and Tuesday 5th December. This entertaining compilation of light hearted poetry, music and drama is the perfect way to start the festive season - tickets are £10.50 per person, to

include a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine. New Year’s Eve Gala Buffet See in the new year with prosecco and canapés on arrival and a three course gala buffet with disco until 1am at £40 per person or £140 for two people with an overnight stay. For more information visit: www.cathedralhotellichfield.co.uk

Advertising Feature

Talent and Dining at The School House

Fabulous entertainment alongside great dining is the key to Christmas at The School House, Weeford, near Lichfield. Christmas Tribute Nights mix much-loved tribute acts with delicious cuisine and are incredible value for money – as each diner receives a complementary drink on arrival. The four course Christmas menu has options to suit all tastes, and each evening includes a disco so you can dance the night away until midnight. From ‘Abba Fever’ and ‘Beyond Buble’ to tributes to Robbie and Olly Hughes, there's

incredible entertainment and superb food on offer from 24th November, right through to New Year’s Eve. The Christmas Fayre Menu at Manley’s Brasserie (The School House’s chic on-site restaurant) is three courses with options for all tastes. Lunch is served Tuesday to Friday (£18.50 per person) and dinner, Tuesday to Friday (£19.75 per person). Saturday Lunch and Dinner is £24.50 per person. A full a la carte menu is also available. Boxing Day Lunch in the restaurant is three courses (including meal choice options) and is £35 per person. Also Boxing Day Lunch in the

Wyatt Pavilion 1.30pm arrival The School House presents the ‘Sweet Sounds of Soul and Motown’, which includes a meal and is £39.50 per person. The School House is in a unique location near Lichfield, in the heart of picturesque Staffordshire countryside. Set in 11 acres of private grounds (with a stunning church just yards away) The School House is licensed for civil ceremonies. Wedding catering includes your choice of food, and a beautiful pavilion with seating for up to 150 guests is available. Call in or telephone 01543 480009 to book.

Advertising Feature Christmas as McKenzie’s Restaurant

McKenzie’s Restaurant have unveiled a Christmas menu that once again features mouth-watering dishes from traditional favourites to contemporary classics. There’s something for everyone, and festive diners can also look forward to lots of Christmas cheer courtesy of the team at McKenzie’s. Tables will be festively dressed, with crackers to add to the spirit of goodwill. This set menu is £29.95 per person, and there is a £10 deposit per person required at the time of

booking. Diners can pre-order their choices, to make sure that each person’s perfect menu is available. Simply let the team at McKenzie’s know your preferences seven days before your booking to ensure the best possible experience. Choose from a selection of Starters including Chicken Liver Pate; ‘Six Different Mushrooms’; Soup of the Day; Prawn Cocktail or Arancini Balls. Main courses on offer are Traditional Free Range Roasted Turkey with all the naughty bits; Fillet Beef Wellington; Scottish Salmon en Croute; Sirloin Steak and Festive Vegetarian Wellington. Finally, choose from a delicious selection of puddings including Christmas Pudding with Ice Cream and Brandy Butter; Seasonal Panna Cotta; Chocolate Brownie with Ice Cream and a selection of Needwood Ice Creams. With its great drinks menu and beautiful setting, McKenzie’s is the perfect choice for a very merry Christmas indeed.

occasions. Established in Lichfield for over 15 years we invite you to experience our brand of Indian fusion cuisine and promise you a feast for your senses. We regularly hold themed tribute nights, why not come along to the next one on Friday 1st December 2017?

Qmin The festive season really starts at Lichfield’s leading Indian fusion restaurant with their fantastic Christmas party menu. Enjoy your friendly party evenings with Qmin's fabulous cuisine. On Christmas Day you can enjoy a superb lunch which is an exquisite exclusive Indian meal. Bookings are now being taken so you are strongly advised to contact Qmin to confirm your reservation. Qmin will be pleased to tailor make menus to suit any preference, dietary choice for Christmas parties or any

Advertising Feature

Christmas at The Barn

Book the perfect festive meal or Christmas party at The Barn, Lichfield, and enjoy a fantastic atmosphere, great cuisine, and a fine selection of drinks (including cocktail menu).

On the run-up to Christmas, The Barn are offering two courses for £23 per person, and three courses for £26 per person, making this a great choice for a special occasion or mid-week treat.

On Christmas Eve The Barn is open as usual, and will be serving 12 noon to 9pm. On Christmas Day opening hours are 11am till 3.30pm (with food served from 12.30pm to 3.30pm); the bar will be open from 11am to 2pm. On Boxing Day The Barn is open from 12pm to 6pm (with food served from 12 noon to 5pm). On New Year’s Eve, opening hours are 12 noon to 1am (with food served all day). See website for prices and details. Book early to avoid disappointment!

Located on the borders of Lichfield, on the Walsall Road, The Barn is something out of the ordinary - a Free-house serving a varied menu – creating cuisine that offers a twist on classic dishes, but with their roots set in a traditional style. The Leomansley private dining room overlooks the scenic Leomansley estate and manor house. For laid back chic in a beautiful setting, visit The Barn.

Home welcome

• Buying • Selling • Renting • Letting

LOCAL NEWS Beacon Park Tennis

Following the success of the Tennis For Free local initiative, which offers free coach-led training sessions on Sundays at Beacon Park, players from Tennis For Free are setting up a new charity called Beacon Park Tennis CIO, with the overall aim of running Beacon Park’s four tennis courts on behalf of Lichfield District Council.

By working with the LTA (Lawn Tennis Association), Beacon Park Tennis CIO could tap into the £250 million funding available to tennis organisations across the UK to improve facilities, introduce more players to the sport, and spot potential top class players.

Beacon Park Tennis is now in the process of putting together a management plan for the tennis courts and how it would work with the community to increase use of the courts. The next step will be for the council to agree the terms of the agreement and set up a lease.

The council is inviting other sporting clubs to register their interest in managing a local open space. To find out more email parks@lichfielddc.gov.uk.

Young Artists’ Art Installation

As part of the very first Great Exhibition at Lichfield Cathedral that took place in August, a creative group of youngsters from local schools teamed up with the cathedral to design aspecial art installation for the event.

The project, overseen by the cathedral’s artistin-residence Peter Walker, saw pupils from 31 schools lay down hundreds of colourfullypainted tiles. The design was a centrepiece to the first of four planned annual Great Exhibitions at the cathedral.

Peter commented: “The idea for this new installation was born off the back of the success we experienced with our 10,000 Angels and ‘A

Cathedral Illuminated’ projects. Each child has created their own person tile, all of which are decorated with a unique natural image. Not only has this introduced the children to a different way of responding to art, it has also made them consider what nature means to them personally.”

Burntwood ‘play in the parks’

Could you Volunteer at Gentleshaw Common?

Residents in the Lichfield and Burntwood areas are being invited to join a monthly volunteer work party being held at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust’s newest nature reserve. The Trust signed a 99-year lease with Lichfield District Council to manage Gentleshaw Common at the start of 2016. The 86 hectare site became the Trust’s fifth largest nature reserve after The Roaches and Black Brook, near Leek, Highgate Common in Wombourne, and Doxey Marshes in Stafford. Volunteers carry out work on all aspects of the reserve, with tasks including bracken control and heathland restoration.

The Trust's aim is for the Common to become a haven for a whole host of wildlife, including birds, solitary bees and wasps as well as many species of plants including bog asphodel, heather and fly-catching carnivorous plants.

The volunteer group meet on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month with each work party taking place between 10.30am and 3pm. The meeting place is at the parking area off Chorley Road at the end of Ogley Hay Road in Burntwood. To book a place on to the work party or for more information, contact Hayley Dorrington at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust on 01384 221798 or email h.dorrington@staffswildlife.org.uk

Stowe Pool repairs

Work to replace sections of a footpath that runs around Stowe Pool got underway in August. Chris Cook, Head of Leisure & Operational Services, said: “Over years, the footpath round Stowe Pool has become worn in places and in need of repair. Visitors have told us that pushing buggies or using wheelchairs on the path can be especially difficult, which is why it’s really important that we repair it.”

A Burntwood project that engages with young people has been awarded a People Power Fund grant from Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis to hold events in the local parks.

Burntwood Town Council’s Play in the Parks events aim to reduce anti-social behaviour by encouraging young people to keep active and take part in a range of activities including rounder’s, painting, football, archery and more. The Play in the Parks events are encouraging children and young people to attend with their families, giving them a safe environment to be able to meet their friends, keep active and enjoy themselves while learning valuable new skills.

Burntwood Town Council were awarded a People Power Fund grant from Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Ellis, of £2,000 to run the Play in the Parks sessions in the parks across Burntwood.

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Your Citylife What’s on in September

Every Tuesday and Friday Walking Football Sessions At Burntwood Leisure Centre. We play on a Tuesday & Friday 1pm till 2pm. If the weather is fine we usually play outside on the allweather pitch, but if it’s raining we play indoors. It costs £2.50 to play. It's a great way of keeping fit & active. Every Sunday Country Music Evening Each Sunday evening featuring John Wildwood and friends plus guest singers. At The Chetwynd Arms in Upper Longdon (halfway between Lichfield and Rugeley) starting at 8.15pm. We sing Country/Irish/Folk/60s. The entrance fee is £2.50 - unless you wish to sing a song with us. We have a charity raffle. Easy on the ear music with guitar/bass/mandolin/violin - any info phone John on 01543258379.

Sunday 3rd September Wedding Fayre 11am to 3pm at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield T: 0121 308 3751 A wide range of exhibitors will be on hand to help you organise your very special day. Fashion show at 12pm featuring the very latest wedding dresses, mother of the bride outfits and men’s formal suits. Free admission & £100 worth of vouchers to be won!

Friday 8th September Gin & Cocktail Dinner 7pm at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield T: 0121 308 3751 Join us for an evening of great food and award-winning gin which features a specially created gourmet menu of five beautiful courses, each paired with an

Edinburgh Gin cocktail. £55 per person or from £179 for two with an overnight stay.

Tuesday 12th September Lichfield Wildlife Group Talk – Field Mice By Derek Crawley (Mammal Recorder for Staffordshire) on Tuesday September 12th at 7:45 pm at Wade Street Church, Frog Lane, Lichfield, WS13 6HL. Admission £3, under 16s free.

Friday 15th September Peggy Scivvy And The Washday Blues A witty and entertaining show about washday in the 1930s - 40s. Incorporating a talk and display of original items from the era. On Friday 15th September at the Wesley Hall, Trinity Methodist Church, Shenstone at 7.30 pm. Tickets cost £7.50 and are available from the Shenstone Village Store, Shenstone Library and Pauline on 01543 480535 Sunday 17th September Wedding Fayre 11am - 3pm at The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield T: 01543 414822 A wide range of exhibitors who will help you organise every aspect of your special day. Free admission & £100 worth of vouchers to be won!

Tuesday 19th September Lichfield Civic Society Talk Community Ownership of Energy Speaker: Anthony Walters. The meeting will take place in The Lichfield Room, Wade St Church Community Hall, Frog Lane, Lichfield, WS13 6HS at 7.45pm. Admission is free to members and school students. Non-members are always welcome - £3 at the door.

Saturday 23rd September – Sunday 8th October British Food Fortnight At Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield T:

0121 308 3751 and The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield T: 01543 414822. During the fortnight the menus in the restaurants will feature traditional British dishes and all diners will be entered into a draw to win an overnight stay for two with dinner! Sunday 24th September Intimate Theatre presents David Garrick 7:30pm at The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield T: 01543 414822. As part of Lichfield’s Heritage Weekend, Intimate Theatre presents a celebration of the life and times of one of Lichfield’s most famous sons, David Garrick, the worldrenowned actor, author and impresario, who was born 300 years ago in 1717. £9.50 per person

Tuesday 26th September Lichfield Branch of Arthritis Care Meeting. Are you living with Arthritis? If so, why not come along to the monthly meetings of the Lichfield Branch of Arthritis Care. We meet at The Community Room in the new Lichfield Fire Station on the fourth Tuesday of each month (except August & December) from 7pm to 9pm, and offer support, signposting and social activities. Transport is provided for a small contribution. Our next Meeting is on Tuesday 26 September 2017. For further information please contact 01543 263347 or 255698. Friday 29th September Murder Mystery Evening At Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield T: 0121 308 3751. Put your investigative skills to the test and enjoy an evening of murder, mystery and intrigue. £39 per person or from £149 for two with an overnight stay. Friday 29th September Gin & Food Evening

7pm at The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield T: 01543 414822. Join us for an evening of great food and award-winning gin in Darwin’s restaurant. The evening features a Sharish gin & tonic on arrival followed by four delicious courses, each one accompanied by a specially selected gin, introduced by our gin expert. £39 per person or from £178 for two with an overnight stay. 14th October to 18 November 2017 Cybertots Exhibition by Lesley Bushell Lesley Bushell is a local illustrator who is presenting an exhibition of her work at Lichfield Library centred on a new children’s science fiction book called Cybertots. Cybertots is written by Stan Hayward, creator of 1980s BBC children’s TV series Henry’s Cat. Welcome To The Cabaret

The show ‘Welcome To The Cabaret’ will take place on Saturday, 7th October at The Guildhall, Lichfield at 7.30pm. Welcome To The Cabaret is presented by singing group Barberama and features two guests - Lichfield U3A guitar group - Don't Fret and Clarinet Allsorts. A raffle taking place during the event will raise money for Lichfield Pathway Project. Music performed will include classic Barbershop styles and music from ‘the shows’. Don’t Fret will perform a range of country and traditional songs and Clarinet Allsorts feature music by Gershwin, Brahms and other well-known classics. Tickets are £8 from S&J Music, 23 Bird Street, Lichfield or email tickets@barberama.org.uk

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Heart of England in Bloom Judging Day O

n the morning of the Lichfield judging day of the Heart of England in Bloom competition, members of the Lichfield Chamber of Trade Blooming Lichfield committee greeted judges at Swinfen Hall Hotel with a presentation on Lichfield wildlife from Friary School student Georgia Loccock, who specialises in the Peregrine falcons at Lichfield Cathedral. This was followed by a tour of grounds at Swinfen including the walled garden and deer pastures. Judges then walked along the Lichfield and Hatherton Canal site on Tamworth Road to Cricket Lane. They were accompanied by Peter Buck from the Trust who gave them a potted account of the history and progress of the project. Next, judges went to Lichfield City Station, where London Midland management showed them the specially made planters and floral displays; railway bridge planters and floral features at Lichfield Smiles. A visit to Andrews House gardens (that are inspired and maintained by the residents) was followed by a tour of Beacon Park, Museum Gardens and other park features - hosted by park rangers. Next came a visit to a house on Cross in Hand Lane to see a variety of wildlife friendly features and the judges were impressed by the efforts of allotment holders at Beacon Street Allotments. The tour finished with Tudor Row, and a walk through our city’s

streets, showing off the many colourful hanging baskets provided by the Lichfield Chamber of Trade and Commerce. The judges expressed that they were most impressed with the effort shown all over the city. Heart of England in Bloom awards presentations take place at Warwick Castle on 14th September.

South Pacific comes to Lichfield F

rom 7th to 11th November Lichfield Operatic Society presents South Pacific at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Performances are at 7.30pm (with a Saturday Matinee performance at 2.30pm). Featuring some of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most famous tunes including ‘I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair’, ‘There Is Nothing Like a Dame’, ‘Bali Hai’, ‘Cock Eyed Optimist’ and ‘Some Enchanted Evening’, this classic musical is set in an island paradise during World War II, where two parallel love stories are threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war. Nellie, a nurse from Arkansas, falls in love with a mature French planter, Emile, and thus begins their whirlwind romance. Meanwhile, the strapping Lieutenant Joe Cable visits the island of Bali Hai and is introduced to the beautiful ‘Liat’, and soon falls in love with her. To book drop in to the Lichfield Garrick Box Office, call on 01543 412121 or go to www.lichfieldgarrick.com