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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.
AUGUST 2016
In This Issue
6 Win Afternoon Tea for Two At Netherstowe House Hotel.
20 Looking for Lichfield’s Cutest Pet Congratulations to our Cutie of the Month! 30 A Window on the Past Memories of Market Street.
32 Lichfield - City of a Thousand Flavours Dining out in Lichfield.
36 Nailed it! Find your perfect nail colour. 30
Issue 6 August 2016
CITYLIFE CONTACTS Editor - Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048
josscitylife@gmail.com
Advertising-
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
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Win Afternoon Tea at Netherstowe House Hotel
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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
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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 a treat that might help you see in the dark.
aceartcork
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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 Monday 22nd August 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 Morwen Walker of Nottingham R o a d , Whittington, who gave the correct answer of 'Victoria Sponge' and solved the anagram in the July issue.
The Somme Remembered
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‘Before Action’ is a special commemoration event art installation, taking place at Lichfield Cathedral to mark the anniversary of the Battle of the Somme.
he event will take place over three evenings from 4th to 6th August and will transform the inside of the Cathedral into a thoughtprovoking, emotive and poignant landscape, symbolising the journey taken by soldiers to the front, and using the words of war poets, visual arts, light and sound.
The event incorporates a series of light projections and sound artworks created by artist Peter Walker and composer David Harper; an exhibition of WW1-related prints by artist Dennis May; an Edwardian sitting room; and exclusive recordings of war poetry by Oscar-winning actor Eddie Redmayne.
There is no charge to attend the event, however donations to the Cathedral are hugely appreciated. Entry will be every 30 minutes from 7pm to midnight on Thursday 4th, Friday 5th and Saturday 6th August. There will be a special ending to the event each evening at midnight.
Eddie Redmayne recording at Lichfield Cathedral © Peter Walker Sculptor
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Beacon Park wins Green Flag Award
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sixth consecutive Green Flag award for Beacon Park has been announced. Green Flag Awards are the mark of a quality park or green space.
The award recognises and rewards the best parks and green spaces across the country. A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.
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Double Birthday Celebrations
n Saturday 16th July The Pear Tree Creperie and Allen Brown Jewellery (who are both based at the Heart of the County shopping village at Swinfen) held a double birthday celebration to to mark 55 joint years in business. Visitors were greeted with champagne and enjoyed crepes (freshly made by the LiveCatering team) and music in a marquee filled with twinkling lights and happy conversation.
Well Done Talisa!
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alisa Patel, Optometrist at Specsavers, Lichfield, took part in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge on Saturday 2nd July. The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a 24 mile-long trek through part of the Pennine range within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, taking intrepid adventurers over the Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough peaks. Talisa undertook this gruelling challenge to raise funds for Acorns Children’s Hospice. Talisa completed the challenge in just 11 hours and 58 minutes and raised £2161.24. Acorns Children’s Hospice is a UK charity that provides care for children with life limiting or life threatening conditions, and offers support to their families. To find out more about Acorns, please visit www.acorns.org.uk. For more information or to add to Talisa’s fundraising total, go to www.justgiving.com/talisa.
E.ON volunteers help to restore heritage towpath
E.ON volunteers
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A 40-strong group of volunteers took a day out of the office to offer their services to Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust.
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rading in office workwear for safety gloves and work boots, the team from E.ON spent more than 320 hours between them helping to build almost 200 metres of the canal trust’s planned 1km heritage towpath at Summerhill, near the M6 Toll Road. It’s part of the organisation’s vision to reinstate the historic Lichfield and Hatherton canals, providing a natural wildlife corridor for walkers, cyclists, boaters and visitors to use. Peter Buck, engineering director for LHCRT, said: “This team from E.ON is one of the largest corporate volunteer groups we’ve seen on the Lichfield Canal in the Trust’s 30 years of operation. “We really appreciate their hard work over the course of the day, which has helped to restore an important part of the Lichfield Canal Heritage Towpath Trail.”
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Go Fish in Lichfield!
Charity Sky Dive
A charity Sky Dive scheduled to take place on 16th July has been rescheduled due to dangerous weather conditions. Craig Webb of Lichfield Windows is making a Sky Dive from 14,000 ft on 14th August to raise money for cancer charities. To sponsor Craig, call 07834 542762 or e-mail enquiries@lichfieldwindows.com. All proceeds go to charity.
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Lichfield’s Canal Trust is offering a chance for children to learn how to fish. To celebrate National Fishing Month, Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust has teamed up with the Canal and River Trust to bring city residents a free family fishing taster session.
he family fishing day will be held on Saturday August 6, from 10am to 5pm, at Borrowcop Locks Canal Park on Tamworth Road, with an expert angler on hand to show the kids how it’s done. To book go to http://www.lhcrt.org.uk/fishingday.html, where you will also find a link to a chance to receive a free fishing starter kit by registering up to three days in advance on the Eventbrite website. All ages are welcome but children must be supervised by an adult. Equipment will be provided free of charge. LHCRT Communications Director Christine Howles said: “We want to get more people hooked on fishing. It’s a great way to unwind and spend time outside in the fresh air. Come and have a go for free at our taster session.” Read more about Go Fish! On the Canal & River Trust website www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/about-us/our-campaigns/go-fish.
Visa and Mastercard accepted.
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Lichfield Cathedral T awarded £690,000 for Chapter House
hirty-nine grants totalling £14.5 million were announced by the government. Other cathedrals who will benefit from grants include Liverpool, Canterbury, York, Salisbury and Coventry.
On July 22nd, it was announced that Lichfield Cathedral will be awarded £690,000 by the First World War Centenary Cathedral Repairs Fund.
The grant will go a long way towards helping Lichfield Cathedral 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 stonework has begun to weaken, and the roof is now showing signs of significant distress. Both factors now pose a substantial risk to the interior, in particular to the library collection.
The Very Revd Adrian Dorber, Dean of Lichfield, commented: “This grant could not have come at a better time. In February this year we launched the Chapter House Appeal, with an ambitious aim to raise £2million. Our Chapter House is a hugely important part of the Cathedral and its history, and we’re incredibly grateful to the government for enabling us to repair and maintain it for future generations.”
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Donations can be made to further help the Chapter House Appeal by texting CHAP17 (£1/£2/£3/£4/£5/£10) to 70070, or by sending a cheque made out to Lichfield Cathedral for the attention of The Development Team.
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Chase Bedrooms and Kitchens
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hase Bedrooms and Kitchens are a family run business who specialise in the manufacture, supply and installation of Kitchens, Bedrooms, Home offices and Bathroom furniture. All their units are custom built in any colour, using 18mm MFC throughout with matching PVC edging, their product is of the highest quality and built to last. Whether you want a supply-only or a complete fitting service, buying from them as a manufacturer you really could save £££s. What are you waiting for? Contact them today for a free no obligation quote. They will come to your home for a free measure, NO salespeople, NO sales pitch, NO crazy "sign now get 50% off" - just a quick measure-up and chat about your requirements; 15 minutes is all it takes. They will then be in contact with a design and price before you know it.
Seidensticker Shirt Competition Prize Draw
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n Friday 15th July, Ken Knowles, Lichfield's Town Crier drew the names of the ten lucky winners of the Michael's Menswear Seidensticker Shirt Competition. Each winner will receive a Seidensticker non-iron shirt. The first name drawn - David Jenkins of Lichfield, will also receive a bottle of Prosecco.
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From left, Marie and Michael of Michaels's Menswear, Ken Knowles (Town Crier) and Marilyn Masters (Town Crier's Escort).
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Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park
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ichfield Proms takes place this year on Saturday 3 September. Now in its eighteenth year, the free family event brings thousands of people together from across the region to enjoy an evening of music, picnicking and a fireworks finale. This year’s concert is set to feature music from the City of Lichfield Concert Band and The British Police Symphony Orchestra, who will be joined by classically trained singers. The event will also feature activities for children, food and drink stalls and a proms shop, where concert-goers can stock up on their patriotic flags and hats. While Lichfield Proms is a free event, and everyone is welcome to bring their own seating and picnic blankets, for just £12.50 music lovers can book a prime seat at a table in front of the stage. Prime seating costs £12.50 per seat, and can be bought in fours or sixes. To reserve a prime table, please 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.
Sponsoring this year’s event are U+I, Lichfield Chamber of Trade and Commerce, Move Corp, Wilcox Refinishers, Strong Holdings, Prizm Solutions, The Best of Lichfield, Keelys LLP Solicitors, Merrymaids, PJS Autos, Secret Garden, Moseleys Solicitors, Beacon Street Garage, Blue Print Designs, Grosvenor Shutters, Swinfen Broun Charitable Trust, Lichfield City Council, Lichfield Bid and Staffordshire County Councillors Caroline Wood, David S Smith, Terry Finn, Janet Eagland and Alan White – through Staffordshire Local Community Fund.
For the latest Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park news visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/lichfieldproms
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Cutest Pet Competition Citylife in Lichfield’s
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very month we bring you a selection of the cutest and most characterful pet pics as sent in by you, our readers. We think every one of your furry friends are gorgeous, but there can only be one Cutie of the Month and the winner for August is Mollie! Congratulations to Mollie and her owners Shaun and Sarah!
Cutie of the Month! Congratulations to Mollie and her owners Shaun and Sarah! Mollie is August’s Cutie of the Month.
Goldy - Goldy is 9 years old and is part Border Terrier, Shih Tzu and Chihuahua! He's pictured with his favourite toy duck. Goldy is owned by Dan.
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Ted - Ted is a Cavapoo who loves to have his chest tickled! Ted is owned by Lynn.
The final winner of Citylife in Lichfield’s Cutest Pet will win a Trophy and £200 Cash Prize. The winner will be chosen from all of the pictures sent in, and will be announced in the December issue.
To enter Citylife in Lichfield’s Cutest Pet Competition, send your pics to the editor at josscitylife@gail.com or post them to Citylife in Lichfield’s Cutest Pet Competition, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. Remember to let us know your pet’s name, and, apologies but we can’t return pics posted to us.
Poppy & Daisy - Julia told Citylife: “Poppy on the left is a two year old bi-colour Ragdoll. Daisy is a six month old Lynx Ragdoll. They are both my beautiful babies!”
Brandy Snaps - Caroline told Citylife: This is Brandy Snaps my miniature Shetland pony. He stands at 32 inches high. He has just celebrated his 12 birthday! Brandy Snaps enjoys being exercised around the village where we live. He has a collection of hats which he likes to wear at different events, including an Easter bonnet which he wears to go to the local church on Easter Sunday and a birthday hat with a banner round his neck for people's birthdays! He is a very sweet and sometimes cheeky pony and makes me laugh every day!”
Roxy - Roxy lives in Lichfield, is ten weeks old and is owned by Laura.
Freddie - Freddie is a Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier cross owned by Louise. Freddie is one year old and is fully grown but weighs only 2kg.
Cutest Pet Cont... Citylife in Lichfield’s
Dylan - Val and Brendan told Citylife: “This is a picture of our very cool spaniel Dylan who lives with us in Burntwood.”
Tilly - Tilly the Border Terrier lives in Lichfield and is owned by Christine
Dex - Dex is a French Bulldog owned by Dan and Laura.
Peter - Peter is a one year old English Spot cross rabbit, who is pictured looking cute for his birthday photo shoot! Peter is owned by Aimee-Louisa.
n August 6th and 7th the Staffordshire Regiment Museum will be welcoming WW1 Tommies, Great War Sikh soldiers and the Staffordshire Corps of Drums plus lots more to their WW1 Edwardian Weekend. The Birmingham Pals will be populating the museum’s on site trench system, and the museum is proud to welcome John Coltman, grandson of Staffordshire WW1 hero William Coltman VC. John will be talking about his grandfather’s service during the Great War, that led to him receiving the British Army’s highest honour for valour – the Victoria Cross (talks
will take place on Saturday only). With Time Healers who will be on hand to demonstrate and explain Edwardian medicine and fashion, and on site tea tent, there’s lots to see and do. Admission is £5 for adults and £4 for children (under 5s go free). Family tickets (2 adults and up to 3 children) are £15. Tickets cover admission to the museum’s whole collection, and there’s lots of places to sit and picnic under the trees and watch the action! This is a relaxing and family friendly day out for the whole family. The event starts at 10am and ends at 4pm on
Alfie - Sent in by Alfie’s owner, Ros.
Learn about life for our great-greatgrandparents at the WW1 Edwardian Weekend!
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Piper - Piper is “the nicest and most stubborn dog imaginable” and is owned by Becky.
both Saturday and Sunday. No need to prebook, tickets can be purchased on the door. For more information call 01543 434394. The Staffordshire Regiment Museum can be found at DMS Whittington, Whittington, Lichfield, WS14 9PY.
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Lichfield Arts this Autumn
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Lichfield Arts’ concerts and events at Lichfield Guildhall include established and up-and-coming artists from the worlds of Blues, Folk, Jazz and more.
he season begins on 2 September with a fundraising beer festival including live bands each evening. On Saturday 24 September there’s an opportunity for young local musicians to get together at a ‘Plug & Play’ session. On 25 September The Kaz Hawkins Band will be bringing their soulful blues to town. Finally, on 30 September a warmup Ceilidh for L2F, The Lichfield Festival of Folk comes to The Guildhall. Established Irish folk stars Dervish play on Sunday 9 October, and there’s blues from the Tom Woodman Band on Sunday 23 plus young, rising blues guitarist Ben Poole on Sunday 30. Tickets and details for all events are available online at www.lichfieldarts.org.uk or from Lichfield Arts box office on 01543 262223. See Lichfield Arts on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest details.
L2F, The Lichfield Festival of Folk
L2F The Lichfield Festival of Folk, is fast becoming a premier fixture in the Midlands’
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music calendar. The main festival takes place from 14 to 16 October at Lichfield Guildhall and organisers are promising a weekend full of musicians at the top of their game. This year John Tams (five times winner of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards) is Festival Patron and the line-up includes: John Tams and Barry Coope; The Young’Uns (winners at this year’s BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards); Ciaran Algar and Greg Russell; the Blair Dunlop Band; Pete Coe; Moore, Moss and Rutter and many more. Events leading up to the main festival weekend include an exhibition in Lichfield Library from 26 September looking at the many folk traditions in the Lichfield area. On Friday 30 September a ‘festival appetiser’ ceilidh for all the family with the Reel Hot Ceilidh Peppers will take place at Lichfield Guildhall. On 5 October a 'Folk Train' will run from Lichfield Trent Valley to Sutton Coldfield. On Wednesday 12 October there is a Festival Quiz in the King George IV pub. On Saturday 15 October an 'Arts and
Heritage Procession' will be accompanied by musicians and dancers from around the region on a parade from Lichfield Cathedral Close to the King's Head pub via the Market Square. There will also be dance and mummer groups performing at various sites in the city centre. There’s also a free music cafe offering coffee, cake and performances by some great local talent on both Saturday and Sunday, and Sunday 16 also sees a variety of workshops taking place. Tickets and details for all events are available online at www.l2f.co.uk or from Lichfield Arts box office on 01543 262223. See Lichfield Arts and L2F on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest details.
Sheelanagig
Ben Poole
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Top tips to protect house buyers against gazumping
Research released in May 2016 by Liverpool Victoria has revealed that the unsavoury practice of gazumping caused 21 per cent of collapsed house sales last year. Julie Tomasik, head of residential property at Ansons Solicitors, examines the risks of gazumping and advises what you can do to protect yourself if you are buying a house. What is gazumping and why does it happen? Gazumping occurs when a seller formally accepts a buyer’s offer but then accepts a higher offer from another buyer. It is most common in a buoyant property market, where prices are rising and there are more buyers than available homes. In some property hot spots, agents have even reported cases of ghost gazumping. Sellers withdraw from an agreed sale simply to remarket their property, hoping to elicit higher offers. People often blame the legal system in England and Wales for allowing gazumping. Before exchange of contracts, there is no binding legal agreement in place. Until then, either party may withdraw from the transaction without giving any reason.
What should you do if you are gazumped? Losing your dream home can be a huge disappointment. You may have already paid for a survey, mortgage application and some legal fees. You can ask the seller to contribute towards these costs. However, legally, there is generally no obligation on them to do so. Often the seller will ask you to match, or better, a higher offer. However, think hard before agreeing to this. You may end up paying more than the property is worth or more than you can really afford. Remember, too, the seller could easily change his mind again. Fortunately, there are some ways to reduce the risk of gazumping: Ask the seller to take the property off the market The estate agent must pass on any offers he receives to the seller, even after your offer has been accepted. Taking the property off the market should substantially reduce the risk of further offers coming in. Check also that the agent has removed any ‘For sale’ signs and updated any property listings in order to show that the property is sold subject to contract.
Consider a separate legal agreement regulating the period before exchange A lock-out or exclusivity agreement can prevent the seller from accepting any competing offer on the property for a defined period. Another possibility is a costs guarantee, in which each party agrees to pay the other’s costs if they withdraw first. If you are worried about being gazumped, discuss the options with your conveyancer. Any agreement must also be acceptable to the seller, who may be concerned about his position if you should fail to progress matters. Home buyer’s insurance A home buyer’s insurance policy will not prevent gazumping. However, it may compensate you for wasted expenses. Your conveyancer can advise you on the cost of a policy, and its limitations.
Act quickly On average, it takes eight weeks from having an offer formally accepted until the exchange of contracts. During this period either party may change their mind. Where possible, therefore, it makes sense to reduce this length of time. Eliminate potential sources of delay by arranging your finances and any survey well in advance. Instruct your conveyancer early on and reply promptly to any questions raised or requests for funds to be transferred.
Communicate well Stay in regular contact with both the seller and the estate agent. Maintaining a good relationship with the seller may make him less likely to accept another buyer’s offer. Remember, too, that an unexpected delay or a protracted silence may lead the seller to doubt your intention to proceed.
Find a good conveyancer Choose an experienced, proactive conveyancer who will give your purchase their close personal attention. They will help to keep your purchase on track. They will also explain to the seller’s representatives the reason for any delay and reassure them that you are both working hard to resolve matters. Communicating your commitment can be your best defence against gazumping.
If you are buying a home contact Julie Tomasik, head of residential conveyancing at Ansons Solicitors on 01543 267 988 or email jtomasik@ansonssolicitors.com. The contents of this article are for the purposes of general awareness only. They do not purport to constitute legal or professional advice.
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Calling All Gamers!
WIN TICKETS TO INSOMNIA58 – THE BIGGEST GAMING FESTIVAL IN THE UK!
Insomnia58, the biggest gaming festival in the UK, takes place this August bank holiday weekend (26th – 29th August), at the NEC, Birmingham.
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nsomnia58 brings together fans of all ages and the most popular names in gaming, with opportunities to play the latest releases announced at E3 and Gamescom before the rest of the UK.
Insomnia58 has already revealed an impressive line-up - with League Fest (Europe’s largest League of Legends event to date) being staged at the festival in a dedicated hall, with pro-players, cosplay and special guests in attendance.
Renowned gaming YouTube stars attending include SkyoesMinecraft, Vanoss Gaming, MissesMae, IAmFallFromGrace, Pwnisher, RecklessTortuga, RedVacktor and ThatGuyBarney – who have a collective subscriber base of over 25 million, plus fans can meet Syndicate on the Syndicate OG stand.
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Attendees can also be among the first in the country to try the latest Virtual Reality (VR) technology with HTC Vive confirmed. This year’s event is also playing host to one of the world’s fastest growing sports. Launching at
Insomnia58, The Drone Racing iSeries sees some of the best drone pilots in the world battling it out for the UK’s top indoor drone event prize pool of more than £5,000.
Insomnia58 features a huge main stage with live shows and entertainment; LAN gaming areas where BYOC (Bring Your Own Computer/Console) ticket holders can plug in and play for 24 hours, all weekend; esports tournaments with a weekend prize pool of £55,500; feature zones including indie games, retro games, tabletop, cosplay and more.
A range of exhibitors including The Yogscast, Merchandise Monkey, Fierce PC, GameTee and Custom Controllers will allow gamers to get their hands on the latest exclusive technology and merchandise.
Win two tickets to Insomnia58
Citylife in Lichfield is delighted to be able to offer one lucky reader and their plus-one a day ticket to the event, priced at £25 each!
To be in with a chance of winning tickets for your day of choice, just send your name and contact details to Insomnia58 competition, PO Box 7126, Lichfield WS14 4JS or email josscitylife@gmail.com by the competition closing date of Friday 19th August.
One entry per household please, duplicated entries will be disqualified. To make ticket bookings, please visit: https://insomniagamingfestival.com/tickets/ For more information please visit: https://insomniagamingfestival.com/ Doors open 10.30am -6.00pm. Birmingham NEC, North Avenue, Birmingham, B40 1NT Tickets only available in advance from £25 at: https://insomniagamingfestival.com/tickets/
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A Window on the Past
Memories of Market Street
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1. Garratt bakery 1908 - 1963 2. Garrett bakery staff C1957 3. Rumbelows electrical goods 1969 1996 4. Long & Son 1907 - 1970/71 5. Frisby's 1912 - 1987 6. Sadlers 1935 - 1979 7. Market Street in the 1960s 8. Benefit Footwear 1931 - 1973 9. Focus Television Rentals 1974 - 1976 & Bon Marche 1934 - 1986 10. Royce clothiers (Now Oxfam) 1964 1973 11. Pricerite (now Iceland) 1976 - 1980 12. Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum, also showing Melias grocers 1927 - 1966 13. Market Square in the 1950s 14. Market Street C1905
Market Street, has been a place that Lichfeldians have headed to for a spot of shopping for hundreds of years. It has only been known as Market Street since the middle of the 18th century. In the 14th and 15th centuries it was known as Robe Street and Saddler Street, and today you can still buy clothing, leather goods and much more on this bustling thoroughfare.
Thank you to local history group ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if’ for these fantastic pictures of Market Street over the past century.
For lots more pictures, photographs and stories visit the Facebook page ‘You’re Probably from Lichfield, Staffs if’ or pop along to their next meeting taking place on Tuesday 2nd August, 7pm – 10pm, at Lichfield Social Club, Purcell Avenue, WS13 6TS. For more information contact 01543 416393 or 01543 268842. Images and captions provided by ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if…’ from sources including the excellent book by J P Gallagher - Trades of a City. Published by The Lichfield Press in 2006. Other editorial sources include www.britishhistory.ac.uk
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Trading Places in City History
ere, local history author John Gallagher talks about what inspired him to write ‘Trades of a City’, a book that looks at the intriguing past of Lichfield’s businesses.
Lichfield city has such a rich variety of structures and buildings, whose histories stretch back centuries. I became fascinated by Lichfield’s shops, businesses and properties, and the ‘I wonder what used to be there’ question. How many years was the cinema in Tamworth Street? What was there previously? Who was the first photographer in Lichfield? When did the ‘Castle’ or ‘Bull’s Head’ public houses actually close? All these questions began to be solved as a personal hobby became a long term project that
By John Gallagher
took many years of intense research. A myriad amount of sources were researched and trawled over many years whether it was the Mercury offices, the record office, William Salt Library or trips to London for long forgotten Victorian newspapers. I wanted to trace the detail of timeline changes as the city gradually altered from personal businesses and private Victorian properties to the normal high street names, so that as buildings changed, frontages altered, and new developments happened it would be a comprehensive study for anyone interested in local history, family or social changes in the city. Ultimately the venture led to the creation and assembly of unique information that needed a proper outlet and creating a book showing the
tenure history from the 1850s to date became the ultimate aim. Fortunately, supported by the local publishers ‘The Lichfield Press’ and within two weeks of publication, the very limited print run of ‘Trades of a City’ was completely sold out. The discovery of so much information and long forgotten details added much and it is fascinating to know that within a generation or two businesses that were well loved and used daily became happy memories for so many people. Furthermore, it is still changing. The Threes Spires Shopping Centre is now twenty years old, and many Lichfieldians cannot remember the older Bakers Lane Precinct. These changes go on, as we research our past, our families are becoming part of the rich fabric of Lichfield history.
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Lichfield -
City of a thousand flavours
Lichfield really is spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out. We have a huge range of cuisines to choose from, offering Thai, Moroccan, Asian, French, Italian, Mediterranean, Chinese and English cooking traditions; fusion cuisines, highend and laid-back dining and everything in between. The range and quality of restaurants, cafes, and bistros thriving in Lichfield must surely be unrivalled in the county.
From the must succulent steaks to dishes delicately flavoured with exotic spices, the talent and innovation of the chefs who strive to bring us the best that the world can offer has made Lichfield a dining capital.
Feeling peckish? Take a look at our eating out guide for a little inspiration.
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The Cathedral Lodge Hotel The Cathedral Lodge Hotel is an independent, family run hotel comprising of 36 comfortable en suite rooms, excellent function and conference facilities, licensed bar and a superb restaurant which is open to both residents and non-residents. Our Head Chef offers imaginative and tasty menus and the atmosphere within the restaurant is welcoming and relaxed. We invite you to enjoy the cosy surroundings within The Cathedral Lodge lounge bar, were we offer a wide selection of the finest of draught and bottled beers, wines and spirits. You can relax and unwind and enjoy a tea or coffee, read the paper or perhaps watch the best live sporting events on our large screen LCD TVs. If you are planning a wedding reception, birthday, christening or retirement, we have the venue and expertise to ensure that your function is a complete success. Whether you require a small buffet or four course meal for your guests, our catering and events team will create a menu to suit both your requirements and budget. Speak to the hotel on 01543 414 500.
Ruby Restaurant
Ruby Chinese Restaurant at 29 St John Street is recognised as one of the best oriental restaurants in the Midlands. They pride themselves on using only the finest and freshest ingredients, from some of the best suppliers in the UK. Each dish is created by experienced chefs and can be adapted to your personal preferences. The attractive restaurant interior features a Chinese Garden dining area, and is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. The ‘All You Can Eat’ Chinese Buffet (available every week-day and on Sunday) offers excellent quality at a highly competitive price, and with its extensive take-away menu, no wonder the Ruby Restaurant is such a popular choice. The Ruby Restaurant can be found at 29 St John
Street, Lichfield. Tel: 01543 251144.
Darwin’s at The George Set in The George Hotel in Bird Street, Darwin’s offers delicious modern British food in a relaxed setting with friendly service. Led by Head Chef Chris Deakin, who was previously Head Chef at the Royal Angus Hotel in Birmingham, the team of Chefs use only the best of fresh seasonal ingredients to create tasty and stylish dishes that everyone will enjoy. The new summer menu includes a popular grill section along with starters such as crispy duck salad, main courses such as roast salmon fillet with Bombay potatoes, tempura vegetables and raita dressing, and a tempting selection of desserts including a refreshing Pimm’s & Mojito summer fruit jelly with blackcurrant sorbet. Darwin’s is open every evening - the great value fixed price menu is served at any time Sunday Thursday evenings and from 6 - 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays (2 courses: £14.50, 3 courses: £17). www.darwinslichfield.co.uk
Gin O’Clock at The George If gin is a favourite of yours, you may like to check out the new gin menu at The George which features over 20 speciality gins, all served in a large balloon glass over ice with a speciality tonic and a garnish – the perfect pre dinner tipple!
Lichfield - City of a thousand flavours The Saxon Penny
The Saxon Penny is a great venue for family and friends to meet. Join us for delicious food from our two-for-one menu or stone-baked pizza menu, also two-for-one. Why not try our cask ales (four to choose from)? Breakfast is served Saturday and Sunday 9am to 11am. Al-fresco dinning also available. Whatever you fancy we hope to see you soon.
Platers Cafe Platters Continental Coffee Bar is opening soon in Lichfield. Situated by the Friary Car Park and opposite the Premier Inn, Platters offers something new to Lichfield. Platters will be serving breakfasts with a difference - exclusively bringing you delicious Illy Coffee. Platters also offer light bites, tapas, crafted beers and fine wines. Opening early in August, you'll always get a warm welcome at Platters and there's plenty of convenient parking space available.
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Lichfield - City of a thousand flavours
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The Perfect Espresso Martini Here, the mixologists at McKenzie’s Restaurant bring you the perfect tipple for summer. *
This cocktail, once known by the name of ‘Pharmaceutical Stimulant’ is now better known as an espresso martini. It was invented by Dick Bradsell at the Pharmacy Bar in 1807. It is a fantastic cocktail both to drink and to make. When made well the coffee and liquor should pour like a foamy Guinness, and slowly layer from yellow to black, leaving a thick head of coffee foam. It is a great way to test the quality of your shaking arm. The key to any cocktail that is shaken, is ensuring that the quality of the ice thickness is substantial enough to chill but not dilute the ingredients, as well as using the correct and best spirits and liquors. Take... 45ml Salted Caramel Vodka 15ml Café Borgetti Give the mixture a double shake and then add... 15ml Liqueur 43 1 Espresso Strain and then add... * Please note you must be 18 or 2 Dashes of Chocolate Bitters over to consume alcohol. 3 Coffee Beans
Lichfield - City of a thousand flavours
Come and visit the AWARD WINNING
Lee Garden
Enjoy high-class cuisine in a great atmosphere and luxurious surroundings at Lee Garden. Excellent Cantonese, Pekinese and Malaysian dishes are specially prepared by experienced chefs and a separate vegetarian menu is available. You will receive a warm welcome from friendly staff and the surroundings offer a modern interior design with an oriental atmosphere. Private and business parties are catered for. A function room is available upstairs for up to 60 people. Sunday Lunch Buffet, Business Lunch Mon - Fri, Vegetarian Dishes, Function Room, Business Meetings. Advance booking recommended. Speciality: Cantonese, Pekinese & Malaysian cuisine. Established over 20 years.
Enjoy high class cuisine in a great atmosphere and luxurious surroundings
• • • •
Established over 20 years
Surrounded by 3 car parks. All free after 6.30pm
Superb menu with a vast choice selection. Experienced chefs from Hong Kong & Malaysia. Open 12 noon till late. Superb function room, seats up to 65.
Visit our website: www.leegardenrestaurants.co.uk 50 Tamworth Street, Lichfield WS13 6JJ Tel: 01543 418515/01543 254388
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Lichfield Food Festival 2016
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Lichfield Food Festival takes place on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 August.
he two headline sponsors of this popular event, are Central Co-operative and England Tempest Ford. This is the fourth Lichfield Food Festival that Central England Cooperative has sponsored and supported. The festival is also sponsored by MCL Create, Tippers, Taste of Staffordshire, Lichfield Chamber of Trade & Commerce, The Smile Centre, Pom’s Kitchen & Deli and The Best of Lichfield. The popular free-entry Lichfield Food Festival will showcase top chefs from across the region, a huge array of specialist food and drink, entertainment, a baking competition, KitchenAid demonstrations, a brewers’ event and more. This year, the festival will also welcome the two familiar faces of Howard Middleton and Ali Imdad, former Great British Bake Off contestants, who will be presenting free baking demonstrations. Cocker-hoop Creative is part of Lichfield Food Festival Committee, and is organising the Food Festival Market. This will see the city centre streets lined once more with food
and drink stalls from specialist producers, including a wide range of street food. Jon Arrowsmith, Director of Cocker-hoop Creative, said: “This year’s market is set to be our biggest yet, with 150 stalls and counting. We’ve got a great selection of traders, bringing a diverse mix of food and drink. “ We ’ r e looking forward to a selection of Caribbean, M i d d l e Eastern, Mexican, P o l i s h , Malaysian and Chinese street food. We’ve also got a pizzeria, and p o p - u p coffee and alcohol bars,
as well as producers selling olives, chutneys, artisan bread, cheese, homemade tarts, cakes, fudge and so much more. “We’re also busy putting together plans for the live cookery demonstrations at Lichfield Cathedral that will be headlined by Great British Bake Off stars, as well as chefs and bakers from across the region.” To find out more visit www.lichfieldfood.co.uk, follow the festival on Twitter @LichFoodFest or go to the Lichfield Food Festival Facebook page
The Kitchen Shop and Lichfield Food Festival
The Kitchen Shop are proud to be very much involved in the organisation of Lichfield Food Festival again this year. Lizzy Braine (Co-Director of The Kitchen Shop) is on the Food Festival committee, and can often be seen out and about working on the organisation of this hugely popular event. The Kitchen Shop are even busier this year as The Food Festival 2016 is set to be the biggest and best so far. On Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th August The Kitchen Shop’s large window display will feature a huge, free Kitchen Aid Cookery demonstration, where two professional demonstrators will be showing off lots of new products such as the Magnetic Drive Blender and the Cook Processor. Running alongside this there will be massive in-store money-saving deals available on Kitchen Aid products, and the demonstrators will be giving out free samples throughout the weekend. Lizzy Braine commented: "We have worked very hard this year to keep this festival totally free. It's a rarity these days for such a big event not to charge an entrance fee. Our demonstrations are inside so that if it rains, we can still carry on. Kitchen Aid are amazing and everyone should have a piece of their equipment in their home. Don't take my word for it though, come and see how good they really are first hand!" Lizzy has also organised ‘Bird Street Food’, taking place in Lichfield's popular restaurant quarter on Bird Street. During the Food Festival the street will come alive with lots of tasty street-food to sample, and there’ll be vouchers and deals available too. The Kitchen Shop will also be having two market stalls to show off more of their stock. They'll be selling Charles Viancin Silicon lids and Cottage Delight deli goodies. Come and try them out.
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Festival Birthday Bake Off!
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Lichfield Food Festival is challenging home bakers to make spectacular birthday cakes for this year’s baking competition, which is being held on Sunday 28 August.
he Birthday Bake Off will be held at Three Spires Shopping Centre on Sunday 28 August. It can be entered in one of two age groups: 4 to 15 and 16 and over. Older bakers, aged 16 and over, can enter a birthday cake or six birthday themed cupcakes for a chance to win afternoon tea for two at The George Hotel, vouchers to spend in The Kitchen Shop and Cakeydora and two Lichfield Cathedral library tours (on a selected date). Younger bakers, aged from 4 to 15, can enter four birthday cupcakes for a chance to win a family ticket to see Sleeping Beauty at the Lichfield Garrick this Christmas, as well as Cakeydora and Kitchen Shop vouchers. Participants will need to bring their entries to Three Spires Shopping Centre between 10.30am and 11.30am on Sunday 28 August. The cakes will be on display for everyone to see, and this year festival goers will be invited to vote for their favourite junior and adult bakes between 11.30pm and 3pm. This will lead up to the judging by Julie Crisp, owner of the Lichfield's baking academy – Cakeydora. The cakes will be judged on both taste and appearance, and the winners will be announced at 3.30pm. To enter the Birthday Bake Off and to read the competition guidelines, please visit www.lichfieldfood.co.uk/bake-off by the 26 August closing date.
J HOWELL & DAUGHTERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS LICHFIELD & ALREWAS
NOW LICHFIELD & ALREWAS’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
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Private Chapel of Rest 116 Netherstowe, Lichfield, Staffs. WS13 6TS
01283 792923
36 Main Street, Alrewas, Burton Upon Trent. DE13 7AA
Food Festival Car Unveiled
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empest Ford has unveiled a Lichfield Food Festival car which is driving throughout the district, promoting the festival as it goes.
As one of the two main sponsors of this year’s Lichfield Food Festival, which is taking place across the city on 27 and 28 August, Tempest Ford is eager to spread the message about the festival. This is why it has transformed a Ford car with Lichfield Food Festival vinyl stickers, which is now driving around the district and beyond. To find out more about Lichfield Food Festival visit www.lichfieldfood.co.uk
Advertise your event in our what’s on guide for only £3 for up to 100 words max, please contact Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048 josscitylife@gmail.com. (Local Charities and advertisers may place what’s on listings free-of-charge).
Your Citylife What’s On in August
1st August to 4th September Finding Dory family swimming sessions Local families will have a whale of a time at a series of Finding Dory inspired family swimming sessions running at Friary Grange and Burntwood leisure centres over the summer holidays. In a series of Finding Dory inspired activities led by a trained pool activator, all the family will have the chance to dive like Dory, splash like sealions, and hide like Hank. The bookable sessions, open to families of all ages and abilities, are running until 4 September. A full list of the sessions is available on Lichfield District Council’s Holiday Fun site atwww.lichfielddc.gov.uk/holidayfun.
Tuesday 9th August Lion House Art School, every Tuesday and Sunday Lion House Art School takes place in a light-filled and comfortable, dedicated art studio. Classes are every week: Tuesday 10am till 12pm and 2pm to 4pm. Sunday 11am till 1pm. Classes taught by professional Lichfield artist Carl Knibb ARBSA. £15 for 2 hours (including materials) Each student works on their own easel. Class size maximum 9. Learn figure drawing, painting light, street scenes, portraits and landscapes. No need to block book. Simply pay-as-you go. For information and to book call 07833 735048 or email lionhouseart@gmail.com Lion House Art, Curborough Countryside Centre, Lichfield, WS13 8ES. www.lionhouseart.co.uk
Saturday 13th August Mark in the Park: one-man open-air performance of Mark’s Gospel in Lichfield Stefan Smart is coming to the Minster Pool and Walk to put on an audacious solo dramatisation. At Speakers’ Corner, without props, scripts or scenery, he’ll recite all sixteen chapters of Mark’s Gospel, throughout the course of the day. It’s part of a tour of Speakers’ Corners that Stefan, an English teacher from Southampton, is taking on.
Sunday 14th August Martha Reeves and The Vandellas Motown legends Martha Reeves and The Vandellas, Lichfield’s own Tony Christie and a host of other fantastic artists will be playing a special charity
gig for 500 people at Lichfield Rugby Club on Sunday 14 August, to raise money for 17-month-old Isla Elizabeth Hufton. Isla was born with Mitochondrial DNA Depletion Syndrome. Grammy-nominated Martha Reeves and The Vandellas are hailed as the true heart and sound of Motown and will pack their set with timeless hits such as ‘Dancing In The Street’, ‘Heat Wave’ and ‘Jimmy Mack’. Martha and her sisters Lois and Delphine – the original Vandellas – will be flying in from Detroit for the show, ready to wow the Lichfield crowd with a full band and brass section in tow. The group will meet and greet the crowd and sign autographs after their performance. Concert promoters tinyCOW are also bringing the fantastic Tony Christie, fresh from his stand-out performance at their Lichfield Tom Jones concert last month, when he performed hits including Is This The Way to Amarillo, Avenues and Alleyways and I Did What I Did for Maria. Funds raised will be split between The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice, Newlife, Promise Dreams and Be Brave Bears. The event will run from 5-10pm, with two stages – a main stage where Martha, Tony, The Beatless (Beatles tribute), Keshia and more will perform – and an acoustic stage with singer/songwriters including Joe Crookall, who recently wowed the crowds at the Tom Jones gig. The family-friendly event will include fun activities for kids. Concert-goers are welcome to bring their own picnic chairs and blankets but all food and drink must be purchased at the concert, where there will be bars and food including a hog roast. Tickets are priced at £30 for adults and £10 for under 12s, inclusive of booking fee. Tickets are available by calling 01543 304 414, emailing hello@tinyCOW.co.uk or book online at www.tinycowtickets.co.uk
Wednesday 17th August Summer Art and Crafts. ADULTS. An introduction to Stencilling. Using a variety of materials to create beautiful stencilled art. No experience necessary
as full tuition is given in this informal, relaxed class. Duke of York Pub, Wednesday 16th August 1pm to 3pm. CHILDREN aged 5 to 11. Wednesday and Thursday mornings in August at Boley Park Hall in Lichfield. 10am to 12pm. Come along and make some new friends as you create something wonderful with Maria Credali. Find 'The Art Club, Lichfield' on Facebook, or call 07989 857277 for details, and to reserve places. Booking essential, places limited.
Saturday 20th August Summer Party Night Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield T: 0121 308 3751 An evening of fantastic food and a disco with an eclectic mix of party tunes that are guaranteed to get you up on the dance floor! £35 per person or from £139 per couple to include an overnight stay.
Tuesday 23rd August Lion House Art School, every Tuesday and Sunday Lion House Art School takes place in a light-filled and comfortable, dedicated art studio. Classes are every week: Tuesday 10am till 12pm and 2pm to 4pm. Sunday 11am till 1pm. Classes taught by professional Lichfield artist Carl Knibb ARBSA.
£15 for 2 hours (including materials) Each student works on their own easel. Class size maximum 9. Learn figure drawing, painting light, street scenes, portraits and landscapes. No need to block book. Simply pay-as-you go. For information and to book call 07833 735048 or email lionhouseart@gmail.com Lion House Art, Curborough Countryside Centre, WS13 8ES. Lichfield, www.lionhouseart.co.uk
Event Venues Lion House Art, 75 The Arches, Curborough Countryside Centre, Watery Lane, Lichfield, WS13 8ES. www.lionhouseart.co.uk Tel: 07833 735048
Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield Tel: 0121 308 3751 Duke of York Pub, 23/25 Greenhill, Lichfield. Tel: 01543 307313
Speakers Corner, Dam St, Lichfield WS13 6AE
Lichfield Rugby Club, Cooke Fields, Tamworth Rd, Lichfield WS14 9JE
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Saxon Hill Academy Charity Golf Day
On July 3rd the Paul Vickers Charity Golf Day, held to raise funds for Saxon Hill Academy Sleepover took place at the Shropshire Golf Centre. Four students of Saxon Hill Academy entertained guests with their signed singing and following a meal and the presentation of prizes, Kim Thomas - Head of Care and Yvonne Yearsley - Deputy Head of Care at Saxon Hill Academy were presented with a cheque for £8,000. Fundraising continues with a sponsored bike ride from Aberystwyth to Lichfield on September 25th led by Darren Jarvis and Richard Carter, and an ‘Evening with Jordan Adams’ on Friday September 30th. Jordan will be singing songs from Musical Theatre and supported by children from the ‘Superstar Academy’. Tickets cost £10 and include cheese and wine. For further details please phone 01543 417178. All the money raised will be spent on improving the facilities and equipment at Sleepover Club, providing a homely environment for the young people who attend.
Woman in Black comes to Garrick Ian Billings
Ben Thornton
After celebrating 27 years in the West End, The Woman in Black embarks on its major UK tour, opening at the Lichfield Garrick on Tuesday 13 September. Stephen Mallatratt’s adaptation of Susan Hill’s best-selling novel tells the story of a lawyer obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over him and his family by the spectre of a ‘Woman in Black’. He engages a young actor to help him tell his story and exorcise the fear that grips his soul. It begins innocently enough, but as they delve further into his darkest memories, they find themselves
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caught up in a world of eerie marshes and moaning winds. The borders between make believe and reality begin to blur and the flesh begins to creep. David Acton is set to play Mr Kipps and The Actor will be played by Matthew Spencer. The Woman in Black runs at the Lichfield Garrick from Tuesday 13 to Saturday 17 September 2016 with a variety of evening and matinee performances. Tickets start from £20, and can be booked online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com or by calling the Box Office on 01543 412121.
More stars join cast of Sleeping Beauty
Two top actors have joined the cast of Lichfield Garrick’s pantomime, Sleeping Beauty. Ian Billings will take on the role of the King in the winter production and Ben Thornton who will play Jangles. Ian Billings, who will make his Lichfield Garrick debut this winter, has directed and written several pantomimes as well as a number of books and plays. He is also a children’s stand-up comedian and has been seen on popular BBC television shows including ‘Doctors’ and ‘Chucklevision’. Ian joins the Garrick cast after a successful run performing in Telford Place Theatre’s annual pantomime. Ben Thornton is a children’s entertainer who has toured across the UK with the ‘Octonauts’ and ‘In the Night Garden Live’. He has also appeared in big musicals such as ‘Oliver!’ and ‘Les Miserables’. Ben’s television credits include BBC’s ‘People Just Do Nothing’, ‘London’s Burning’ on LWT, and The Disney Channel. Ben also specialises in puppetry and teaches in several UK drama schools. He is thrilled to be playing Jangles in Sleeping Beauty. Cbeebie’s Rebecca Keatley has been confirmed to play Fairy Moonbeam and Sutton Coldfield based dame, Sam Rabone will take on the role of Nurse Nellie. The pantomime opens at the Lichfield Garrick on 1 December and runs until 31 December 2016. Tickets for all performances are on sale now, with a variety of schools, matinee and evening performances. Tickets cost from £13 for children and from £22 for adults, and can be booked online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com or by calling the Box Office on 01543 412121.
MAA Boot & Kart!
On Sunday 4th September Midland Karting in conjuction with Swift Business Solutions of Aldridge are holding a Boot & Kart day in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance at their F1 style karting centre in Fradley (near Lichfield). From 10am till 1pm, visitors can browse around the charity fundraising Car-Boot where there’ll be plenty of bargains on offer. Entry to the Car-Boot is free and there’s lots of free parking. If you’re
LOCAL NEWS
interested in selling at the Car-Boot, call Midland Karting on 01543 418419 or email sales@midlandkarting.co.uk to book your pitch (cars £5, vans £8). This is a Car-Boot day with a difference, as you can also test out your driving skills on one of Midland Karting’s circuits. Arrive & Drive Karting is available all day (10am till 4pm), with Adult prices starting at £20 for 20 minutes, and Kid’s karting starting at £15 for 20 minutes. There’s also karting available for your littleys! Electric Cub Karts are suitable for kids from 4 to 7 years, and prices start at just £5. There’ll be two Endurance Races taking place on the day at 10am and 2pm. Each Endurance Race sees up to 12 teams of 4 to 6 drivers take part in a fast paced, excitement packed race over 2 hours (plus 30 minutes practice session). Prices are £150 per team. Midland Karting are taking bookings for teams now. Call 01543 418419 or email sales@midlandkarting.co.uk to book your place. Midland Karting can be found at Wood End Lane, Fradley Park, Lichfield, WS13 8NF. For all the latest event news see our tweets at #Maaboot
Harmony & Grace
On Friday 8th July the Mayor of Lichfield opened the Birthplace summer exhibition showcasing local calligraphy talent. ‘Harmony & Grace: Lichfield Calligraphers at the Birthplace’ is an exhibition of work by calligraphers from groups run by Peter Halliday in Lichfield, Barton under Needwood, and also some work by members of the Mercian Scribes. There are 37 works in total by 20 different artists displayed around the Birthplace building for visitors to discover while they walk around the house. This is the 4th time that the calligraphers have exhibited at the Birthplace since 2010 and the displays prove very popular, with one member of the public already describing this year’s exhibition as ‘one of the best I have seen in a long time’. Some of the artists are new to calligraphy, some are very experienced and there is a wide variety of colours, styles and subject matter on display from traditional to modern and experimental - including a wonderful field of fabric daisies! The title of the show is inspired by Samuel Johnson’s Dictionary definition for ‘Proportion’, which includes a line from a poem by Elizabeth Carter: "Harmony, with every grace, Plays fair in the proportions of her face". The exhibition is free entry from 10.30 – 4.30pm daily until Sunday September 25th.
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