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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, Hill Ridware, 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 - Kristen Lackajis 07885 380632 kristencitylife@gmail.com Features - Jono Oates 07785 757201 jonocitylife@gmail.com Advertising -
Steve Brown 07740 166497 stevebrowncitylife@gmail.com Rebecca Hill 07970 513144 rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com Luke Taylor-Burnell 07710 195470 lukecitylife@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.
e n i z a g a M l a c o Your L
Inside...
16 The History of Hints The little village is in the spotlight
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20 Combat the Boredom & Thrive! Make the most of your time in isolation
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24 Burntwood Asylum Jono Oates looks at the history of St Matthew's
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35 The Pools & Paths of Chasewater A 'virtual' stroll round this local beauty spot
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36 One Week In! Jo Howell's comical self-isolation diary
From the Editor...
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Hello and welcome to the April issue! As you’re already aware, we’ve had to take our magazine online for the time being during the Covid-19 outbreak. This is a precautionary measure to fully ensure the safety of all of our staff, distributors, advertisers and, most of all, our readers! However we would like to reassure everyone that we have not disappeared! We will be back in print as soon as we are able to do so and, in the meantime, we are committed to providing the community with the same great local news, history and features that you all know and love! We are aware that some of the advertisers featured in our publication are not currently trading, however they still wish to have a presence during the next few months. If you are unsure whether organisations are open or not, please contact us and we will be only too happy to assist you. During these uncertain times, we would like to wish everyone well and hope you all stay safe. Together we can get through this!
Krissy
MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTORS WANTED Earn extra money delivering magazines in Lichfield. Would suit a retired person. Must be over 16 Call Marie 07548 682576 .................................. We also offer leaflet distribution for your comapny. Call Rebecca 07970 513114 for more information and prices * service currently on hold
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LOCAL NEWS
Old Police Station is Demolished
Work to demolish Lichfield’s former police station on Frog Lane began in early March. The three-floor red brick and concrete building that has stood on the site for more than 50 years has started being pulled down to make way for the redevelopment of this key city centre site. The work is part of Lichfield District Council’s project to improve the Birmingham Road area while plans for the long-term redevelopment of the area are shaped through the city centre master planning process. The council’s contractor, The Coleman Group, used 40 ton demolition machines to take the building apart and separated the resulting material to be recycled. The Birmingham Road site improvement project is well underway with work also taking place to improve Lichfield bus station and create extra coach parking. The works will make the area safer, more useful and attractive, and provide a better route into the city from the train and bus stations. To find out more about the project, please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/brsimprovements. .......................................................................................
Local Bakery gets Celebrity Twitter Boost
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Ruth Redgate with Theo Paphitis
An Elford-based firm has received a business boost from retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis. Ruth Redgate, owner of Hunnypot Cottage Bakery, tweeted Theo about her business during ‘Small Business Sunday’ and was one of six weekly winners to gain a retweet by Theo to his 500,000 Twitter followers. The weekly initiative, set up by Theo in 2010, now has over 2500 #SBS winners and supports small businesses in the UK. Business and retail entrepreneur and self-confessed Shopkeeper, Theo re-tweeted Ruth’s message to his almost 500,000 followers and as a result, www.hunnypotcttagebakery.co.uk has more followers and extra orders for its artisan breads. It is also profiled on the #SBS website (www.theopaphitissbs.com) that is exclusive to all Small Business Sunday winners. .......................................................................................
Johnson’s Willow Planting at the NMA
Paul Niven, John Winterton, Cllr Joe Powell and Philippa Rawlinson
Lichfield District Council has donated four important trees, which were grown from cuttings of ‘Johnson’s Willow’ that stands next to Stowe Pool in Lichfield, to the National Memorial Arboretum. On Monday 16th March, the Chairman of Lichfield District Council joined members of the Johnson Society and the National Memorial Arboretum team to see the four young trees being planted and the plaques unveiled. The event followed a request by the Johnson Society for the special trees to be planted at the 150-acre site, which is the nation’s year-round centre for remembrance, and the National Memorial Arboretum kindly agreed to care for the trees. Johnson’s Willow became famous in the 18th century for its great size and because of the interest Dr Johnson showed in it. Following concerns that the current Johnson’s Willow was nearing the end of its life, Lichfield District Council took a number of cuttings from it two and a half years ago, and has since been nurturing the trees, which now stand at around six foot. The four trees can now be found at two locations at Water’s Meet at the National Memorial Arboretum (site currently closed). To find out more visit www.thenma.org.uk.
Local Ladies Launch Book
On Sunday 8th March, or International Women’s Day, Le Reve Cocktail Bar on Bird Street hosted a book launch which was celebrated with, appropriately, a cheeky cocktail or two! The book is called Monetise Your Message and has been written by 21 female entrepreneurs who each contribute a chapter based upon their own real-life stories in creating, and maintaining, a successful business. The book has been created to help inspire potential new business owners to turn their creative ideas in to a practical business that will provide a substantial income. Twelve of the contributing authors were at the launch including Sophie Starkey who is the partner of bar owner Shaun Craven. Priced £12.99, Monetise Your Message is available to order from Amazon, with a Kindle version also available at £6.99. .......................................................................................
New Choir at The Hub
A new choir has been launched at the wonderful n e w performance space at The Hub at St Mary’s under the musical direction of Ruairi Edwards, a nationally sought after conductor, pianist and vocal coach. The choir was the brainchild of Julie Mallaband who had been searching for a choir for experienced singers used to singing in harmony. She couldn’t find one so took the idea to the Hub and the rest is history! All members have an informal audition and the choir is on the look-out for new members, in particular, men! They sing a wide range of pieces from Mozart to Coldplay. Anyone interested in joining can email Louise Fleming at The Hub St Mary’s on louise@thehubstmarys.co.uk. * Please note that rehearsals are currently suspended but new joiners will be notified when they recommence.
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Community Messages Free Parking for NHS Workers
From Lichfield Foodbank
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We’ve seen a lot in the media about foodbanks in crisis at the moment, so we want to reassure our clients and supporters that Lichfield Foodbank is still open. Our distribution centres are currently operating at usual times with some new measures in place. Our volunteers have been working very hard over the past week to put contingency plans in place and we are confident that we can continue to support our community over the difficult weeks ahead. Our food stock levels are holding up well thanks to your continued generous donations, but we are running low on some items and you can find a list of our current most needed things on our website: w w w. l i c h f i e l d . f o o d b a n k . o r g . u k / g i v e help/donate-food/. Long-life milk is an item which we are particularly concerned about. Iif you are able, please drop a carton in one of our collection baskets. You can also help us in other ways such as with donations of money and volunteering your time find out more at www.lichfield.foodbank.org.uk/give-help/. .......................................................................................
Lichfield District Council is offering everyone who works for the NHS or in health and social care the free use of its city centre car parks when they are using them in connection with work. From 26th March, if you work for the NHS, are a health and social care provider or are volunteering for the NHS, you will be able to access all the car parks Lichfield District Council manages for free during your working or volunteering day. Formal ID will be issued to staff within the health and care sectors soon, but in the meantime the council will accept an official headed letter from your employer. The council will also be suspending any parking penalties issued to anyone within the health sector within recent days, if the penalty was in any way connected with work travel. If you have received a penalty, please email parking@stoke.gov.uk with more information and we will cancel your penalty. If you are unsure if you qualify for the free parking, or of what you need to display in your vehicle to show your entitlement, please email parking@lichfielddc.gov.uk with your enquiry. The free parking only applies to the car parks that Lichfield District Council manages. These can be found at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/carparkmap.
Sign Up for Council Tax Online
Save time online by registering for a My Account to have all your council tax information available in one handy place. Lichfield District Council is in the process of sending out this coming year’s council tax bills to a total of 46,318 homes across the district. The bills set out the amount households will pay for their local services provided by Lichfield District Council, Staffordshire County Council, the police and fire services and parish councils. The new bills also give information about how to make paying for council tax easier by setting up a direct debit. Quick and easy to set up, paying by direct debit means you never miss a payment, and you can pay in ten or twelve monthly instalments over the year choosing to pay on either the first or eighteenth of the month. This year Lichfield District Council is using the bills to promote its online registration service, My Account. By signing up, households can access their council tax bills at any time, check their balance, never lose a bill and cut down on paper. Sign up for an online council tax account at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/ctaxaccount. Councillor Andy Smith, Cabinet Member for Customer Services & Innovation, said: “I want to take this opportunity to remind anyone who usually pays for their council tax using the payment boxes in our District Council House reception and at Burntwood Library, that we are removing these boxes at the end of April 2020.” To find out more about council tax, how to pay, and whether you could be entitled to an exemption or discount, visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/counciltax.
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Lichfield Cathedral - Supporting from Behind Closed Doors
It with sadness that Lichfield Cathedral has to announce that during this time of national emergency it will no longer be open to the public for services, events or private prayer.The latest Government and Church of England guidelines state that in order to keep everyone in the country safe, all churches must close. However, having closed doors does not mean that churches can’t still offer support and community in this time of crisis. Lichfield Cathedral will be keeping its daily patterns of prayer going. Each morning at 8am and evening at 5.30pm prayers will be offered in the Cathedral for our world, nation, community and those close to us. The Cathedral has provided resources on its website for you to join in prayers and is working on more tools to help people in this time of need at www.lichfield-cathedral.org. From Lichfield Cathedral: “We recognise these are difficult times, and for many a prolonged period of isolation poses issues both practical
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and in terms of mental health. If you need any support we are on the end of the phone, give the office a call on 01543 306100 and we'll direct you to the right support.”
A prayer in lockdown The doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked. (John 20.19)
Ever present God, be with us in our isolation, be close to us in our distancing, be healing in our sickness, be joy in our sadness, be light in our darkness, be wisdom in our confusion, be all that is familiar when all is unfamiliar, that when the doors reopen we may with the zeal of Pentecost inhabit our communities and speak of your goodness to an emerging world. For Jesus’ sake. Amen.
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Community Messages Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
It is with great sadness that we have decided to temporarily close the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum from Thursday 19th March until further notice due to the rapidly increasing spread of COVID-19. The safety and well-being of our visitors, staff and volunteers has always been our number one priority. We hope that you understand our decision as it is not one which we have taken lightly. We will update our website and social media profiles when we have any news or information about re-opening. In the meantime, our online catalogue is a wonderful way to view a lot of items in our collection, and can be found here: http://collections.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org. uk/. For any enquiries, please email us at sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Best wishes, The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum Team.
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Update on Closure of Lichfield Garrick
miss out on their favourite show. Our Box Office team are in the process of refunding or exchanging tickets for all patrons who have booked tickets and would ask people to please bear with us while we make our way through that list. Please see below a list of productions and other ticketed events affected during this timeframe: Cancelled Shows Marisha Wallace Fidelio Hold On Let Go The Glee Club Swan Lake (Live Screening) You Win Again Havana Nights Making Music Easter Half Term Community activities Silent Disco (both editions) Cavalleria Rusticana/ Pagliacci (Live Recording) Blood Brothers Rescheduled Shows Quill: Thursday 8th October 2020 The George Michael Legacy: Thursday 22nd October 2020 Buddy Holly & The Cricketers: Sunday 1st November 2020 A Black Country Night Out: Thursday 12th November 2020 And Finally... Phil Collins: Thursday 25th March 2021 The Tempest (To be Confirmed) The Fizz: Friday 6th November 2020 Sun Records: Thursday 11th February 2021 A Beautiful Noise: Celebrating the Music of Neil Diamond: Thursday 5th November The Tiger Who Came to Tea: Saturday 13th February 2021 11:30am & 2:30pm/Sunday 14th February 2021 11:30am The James Bond Concert Spectacular (To Be Confirmed) Walk Right Back: Sunday 30th May 2021 Sheila’s Mental Health Show: 10th October 2020 – on World Mental Health Day
....................................................................................... Following official guidance from the UK Government and Public Health England, the Lichfield Garrick theatre made the decision to cancel shows in March. The theatre has managed to contact every patron who was expected to visit the theatre during this time. If you haven’t received a refund for March shows within a week of us getting in touch with you, please contact with the Box Office team at garrick@lichfieldgarrick.com. As this is a rapidly evolving situation, the theatre has postponed shows in line with government regulations that were due to take place in April as well. Lichfield Garrick is working closely with touring production companies to reschedule these shows where possible so audiences don’t
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Statement from Richard Winterton Auctioneers
"It is with a heavy heart that I have to announce our immediate temporary closure of The Lichfield Auction Centre due to the latest COVID-19 measures. All sales will cease immediately. "Myself and Jan cannot thank our staff enough for their wonderful support. Their dedication and professionalism during these difficult weeks has been invaluable. I would also like to say a huge thank you to our loyal clients for their fantastic support too. "More information will follow.
We will be back. My best wishes to everyone – stay safe." .......................................................................................
Cutlery Firm Closes For First Time in History
Family cutlery firm Arthur Price has temporarily closed during the Covid 19 crisis. Having already closed its Lichfield factory shop last week due to worries over social distancing, CEO Simon Price has closed its Birmingham and Sheffield factories and Lichfield HQ. It is the first time in the company’s 118 year history that its doors have all closed. Simon Price said: “After the decision by the Prime Minister to restrict movement we immediately closed our two factories and administrative headquarters temporarily having closed the factory shop in Lichfield last week. “I’d like to thank every single member of the team for working with me during these difficult days, everyone has been brilliant; thoughtful and considerate of other staff, suppliers and customers and I thank them during this unprecedented worldwide crisis. “Everyone please stay at home. We may come back a slightly different society, but we will prevail. I am convinced with the measures that we take now we will beat this terrible virus.”
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Community Noticeboard
There's still plenty of businesses, groups and community endeavours taking place in and around Lichfield! Wedding Stuff by Claire
Wedding invitations and stationery. Custom invitations, from budget to luxury and laser cuts, table plans, order of service and more. Free quotes and samples. Please contact once we are back open.
Tel: 07763398587 www.weddingstuffshop.co.uk
Elm Coaching & Mentoring
Helping you and your organisation get results in a complex world through virtual coaching. Please vist our website for more information.
Tel: 07971 086329 www.elmcoaching.co.uk
The Furnitureaholic
Have some old furniture you would love to have re-loved or re-styled ? The Furnitureaholic can help! Find us on Facebook @TheFurnitureahoilc
Lichfield Tree Surgeons
From tree removal, tree pruning to hedge trimming and shaping. Please contact once we are back open.
Tel: 01543 732362 or vist our website at www.3countiestreesurgery.com and book your free visit and quotation now
Bradshaw Bros Farm Shop & Cafe
We are offering a drive in shopping option. Simply arrive at our car park with your shopping list and complete an order form and hand in to our team at the doors. We will pick your order whilst you wait in your car. Card payments only.Your order will be placed on a table for you to collect. Bleakhouse Farm, Ironstone Road, Burntwood WS7 1YL.
Bradbury's Farm Shop & Butchery
Appointments availble for 15 mins and by appointment only for the elderly or vulnerable to do a peaceful shop on their own. Please call Lisa to book.
Tel: 01543 255939
Alexander James Associates
We are an architectural and building surveying practice based just outside of Lichfield. From drawings for new builds, extensions or renovation projects, managing the planning permission process, building regulations or RICS Home Surveys, we can help you with your project.
Tel: 01543 279437
Tel:01543 257 735 enquiries@ajassociatesltd.co.uk
Allen Brown Jewellery
Let Love Be Dating Agency
Allen will be using this time to work on new designs for the gallery. For enquiries on any current orders, or information on new commissions or repairs please call us on 01543 481 948 or visit our social media pages on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter for regular updates on our collections and pieces.
www.allenbrownjewellery.co.uk
For a video consultation or informal telephone call please contact Sarita at Let Love Be Dating Agency. Free service for anyone 70 plus to help prevent loneliness.
Tel: 07516344388
Effective Financial Planning
Advertising Feature
I have lived in Burntwood and Hammerwich for the past forty eight years. I went to the local schools, as did my wife and our children. We have both worked in the area since we left school and both sets of our parents still live here. I have been a School Governor at a Burntwood School and am a Parish Councillor in Burntwood and Hammerwich. I enjoy chocolate biscuits and the odd glass or red wine, but not necessarily together. I support the Team that plays in Claret and Blue, but the least said about that the better. I feel that effective Financial Planning is about knowing your Clients and them knowing about you. There is no one size fits all approach and all Clients are unique with differing circumstances, needs and requirements. If you become a client I will find out enough about you to provide you with effective financial planning. I will speak in clear terms and do my best to try and help you achieve your goals. You can visit our office in Shenstone or I can visit you at home to discuss your financial needs which could include Pensions, Investments, Savings, Protection and Inheritance Tax. The first appointment will be at my cost and there is no obligation to proceed any further. Any future costs will be explained and agreed with you before any work is carried out on your behalf. As part of the process I will carry out a full fact find of your circumstances and discuss with you your priorities, where you want to be financially in the future and how I may be able to help you get there. I am a member of a fourteen strong Financial Adviser team at Four Oaks Financial Services and am supported by in-house research, client liaison and administration teams. As an experienced and fully qualified Financial Adviser I work with private and corporate clients to help them achieve their financial goals. My clients are mainly in the Burntwood, Lichfield, Cannock and greater Wolverhampton areas, although I do have clients much further afield. At Four Oaks Financial Services we advise our clients on a range of investments and are very proud to have their trust and confidence to do so. It is often said that people deal with people so please give me a call or drop me an email. We can have a chat and can take it from there if you wish. I hope to hear from you soon.
Robin Place DipFA, CeLTCI, MLIBF Financial Adviser 0121 323 2070, 07968 504805 robin@fouroaksfs.com 13
Community Noticeboard There's still plenty of businesses, groups and community endeavours taking place in and around Lichfield!
Café Prego
Café Prègo, Shenstone, has provisions of: eggs, bread, milk, soup, biscuits, toilet roll, onions, potatoes, biscuits, nappies (size 3) to help local people instead of queuing at supermarket. All health precautions are taken prior to entry into the café area. Café Prego can also provide takeaway coffee, breakfasts and other food (as stated on the website).
Telephone 01543 481640 or fill in the order form at www.creativeplants.co.uk.
Stonnall Coservation Society
Stonnall Conservation Society will have to cancel the April 22nd meeting and meetings for the foreseeable future until such time as the Coronavirus has been eradicated. To all our Members we wish you good health and look forward to seeing you all in the not too distant future.
Kim Cypher – Live on Facebook
Anyone in need of some company (from a safe distance of course) or some cheering up, chatter and banter? Jazz musician and Lichfield Festival performer, Kim Cypher, is going live on Facebook from her sofa at 11am every day! Join Kim and her special guests at www.facebook.com/kim.cypher.
A Green Sweep
Let us clean your home or business with our fantastic eco, natural cleaning products that also child and pet friendly! All our cleaners are trained, insured and DBS checked. We offer everything from spring cleaning, deep cleaning and office cleaning to endof-tenancy cleaning!
Find us on Facebook @GreenSweepUK and book now!
Free Plays from The National Theatre Missing your fix of the theatre at the moment? The National Theatre has announced it’ll be streaming a play every Thursday night (available to watch for seven days) from next week on YouTube. April 2nd: One Man, Two Guvnors April 9th: Jane Eyre
Simply visit www.youtube.com and type National Theatre into the search bar.
Thank you NHS Workers!
Citylife was delighted to join in with the round of applause for NHS and social care workers on Thursday night at 8pm. Please remember that, while we are all isolating and keeping ourselves hidden away, the NHS and other key workers people have no choice but to face this virus head on whilst they continue to provide vital care and products for us all. A huge THANK YOU from Citylife!
Hunnypot Cottage
It’s ‘baking as normal’ at Hunnypot Cottage in Elford, with options to collect or take delivery of freshly baked artisan bread products. Delivery is free within a radius of three miles. Find out more at www.hunnypotcottagebakery.co.uk, email loaf@hunnypotcottagebakery.co.uk, or find on social media channels @hunnypotcottage.
The Plant Plot
Get your garden essentials! Delivery service is available from The Plant Plot Garden Centre, Lichfield. Please call between 10am-1pm on weekdays for a delivery within 24 hours.
Telephone 01543 262805 or email info@theplantplot.com.
Got a message you want to share with the community? Perhaps you can offer a service, or simply a message of hope? Send an email to: kristencitylife@gmail.com and we'll do the rest!
Stay safe everyone!
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The History of Hints St Bartholomew's Church
Hints Hall
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By Jono Oates
ints is a small village situated five miles from Lichfield and three miles from Tamworth on the old A5 road, although it has a history that stretches back to Roman times. The name Hints is believed to derive from an old Welsh word ‘hynt’ literally meaning a ‘road’ and referring to the old Roman road, Watling Street. Hints is one of the 357 settlements in Staffordshire listed in the Domesday book of 1086 when it was part of the lands of the Bishop of Chester and had six dwellings and a population of 60 villagers. In the 14th and 15th centuries the land surrounding Hints belonged to the Meynell family before it transferred to Ralfe Bassett, of Drayton Bassett. By the early 17th century the Bassett family were in decline and the estate was transferred to Ralph Floyer in 1605. Ralph’s grandson was Sir John Floyer, born in Hints in 1649 and a noted physician of the day. John Floyer was responsible for the invention of a ‘pulse watch’ so that a patient’s pulse could be scientifically measured for the first time. He also published research on the study and causes of asthma and advocated the medical benefits of coldwater bathing. The Floyer family residence, Hints Hall, was rebuilt and a two storey Georgian residence was constructed. In the 19th century the hall was purchased by James Chadwick, a very wealthy cotton manufacturer whose business had been in Eagley, Bolton. The village church of St Bartholomew’s had originally been built in the 14th century but the church was rebuilt in 1882. The church was designed by John Oldrid Scott who was the son of Sir George Gilbert Scott who was the designer of the west front restoration of Lichfield Cathedral. James Chadwick paid for the rebuild of the church, at a cost of £5,000, and also spent £4,000 building the church vicarage,
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The Ford
The Strawberry Cabin
which is now called Chadwick House. James Chadwick passed away in 1892 but his widow continued to live at Hints Hall. In August 1912 she hosted a fete at the hall, raising funds for the ‘Children’s Union in support of the Crippled Waifs and Strays’. There were three stalls selling goods and cakes and a pony race with the riders dressed up in costume which was won by Mr T Tatton riding ‘Henry Baskerville’ (the same combination also won the ‘umbrella and cigarette’ race – the mind boggles!) Miss Andrews won the flat race for ladies, winning a leg of mutton as her prize and Miss Sylvia Renton won the prize for having the ‘ugliest dog’! Mrs Chadwick passed away in 1917, aged 88, and left an estate of £16,416. The hall and estate was eventually sold in
1949 and the main part of the hall was demolished in the 1960s. The Hints Village School was built in 1876 and was said to be the smallest school in the whole of Staffordshire. Sadly, it closed in 1968. Manor Farm on School Lane is one of the longest established farms in the area. In March 1887 Mr James Heath of Manor Farm was looking to let a house in the village, along with a grocer’s shop with a good garden. Tenant, Mr T Beech, issued a warning in the Tamworth Herald in July 1892 telling readers that any trespassers found gathering mushrooms at Manor Farm would be prosecuted! Mrs Hall, the tenant of the farm in 1913, was looking to hire a strong young girl, though milk churns were not needed to be lifted, and of good character to assist with farm work and look after two children. In October 1924 the tenant of the farm was Mr G Pugh who relinquished his tenancy and put all of the stock, live and dead, up for auction. This included 108 shorthorn cattle, 102 Leicester ewes, 19 draught horses, a traction engine, circular saw and 140 acres of excellent grass.
Win a set of Brookside Nursery garden essentials!
As many of us are undoubtedly seeing our own homes and gardens a little more in these unprecedented times, as more of us are working from home for a while, there has never been a better time to get into your garden and appreciate your outside space, grow some flowers and perhaps more importantly some vegetables for the family to enjoy this summer. James Thomas, who has run the nursery since 1999, has focussed on bringing a reliable plug plant mail order service to gardeners not only in the UK but all over Europe too. He says: “Our unique selling point is that customers can choose the delivery week they would like to receive their plants and this has proved to be a popular formula for our customers when planning their vegetable patch, flower beds and hanging baskets for the summer season.” One lucky reader will win a selection of garden essentials courtesy of Brookside Nursery, the independent retail and mail order garden nursery based in the historic village of Hints. Simply answer the following question correctly to be in with your chance of winning:
Mrs Louisa Arblaster was trying to find homes for two well bred three-month old sheepdog puppies with a ‘good working strain’ in January 1926. In September 1937 her husband, William, passed away. The Arblaster family was a very well respected and well established name in Staffordshire history, and the family home was originally at Lysways Hall in Longdon. William was churchwarden at St Bartholomew’s and was also the manager of the Hints school for 12 years, as well as vice-chairman of the Parish Council. The current owners of Manor Farm are the Clarke family, now a third generation of farmers. Since 1973 the farm has been operating a pick-your-own fruit picking business and now has a café and restaurant on-site too. Hints is a lovely, quaint and very traditional English village with a population of just over 350 people and a history dating back to the Domesday book and beyond. Sources: The British Newspaper Archive; www.hints-village.com; www.bassettsbranches.org; www.ourvillagechurch.org.uk
Which year did James Thomas start Brookside Nursery? a) b) c)
1979 1989 1999
To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to Garden Competition at competitioncitylife@gmail.com or post your entry to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield WS14 4JS by the closing date of 20th April 2020. One entry per household. Multiple entries will be disqualified. No cash equivalent. Please note you must be 18 or over to enter. All entrants’ information is processed in line with GDPR Data Protection Regulations and our Privacy Policy (available at citylifeinlichfieldltd.co.uk). Full t&cs on page 30.
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The beauty who stole D H Lawrence’s heart ................................................................. By Jim Spencer of Hansons Auctioneers
A postcard sent by famous author D H Lawrence to a woman he fell head over heels in love with more than 100 years ago has emerged from under a bed. Lawrence, one of Britain’s foremost literary figures, wrote the postcard to Louie Burrows shortly before they became engaged to be married in 1910 – a woman he described as warming his heart like a ‘sunny day’. Now the postcard, which was inherited by Louie’s great niece Ros Connolly, is set to be sold at Hansons Auctioneers on April 2 with a guide price of £300-£500. However, it could fetch a few thousand pounds. Last year, a D H Lawrence postcard, found by chance as it was about to be thrown in a skip at Bilsthorpe tip, near Newark, sold for £1,500. Jim Spencer, head of works on paper at Hansons Auctioneers, said: “This newly discovered postcard from 1910 is a wonderful find reawakening a love story from more than a century ago. “The couple never married but Louie was engaged to D H Lawrence from 1910-12. He must have broken her heart when he left her but she always remembered him with fondness.The character Ursula in his book The Rainbow is based on their relationship and her former home, Church Cottage in Cossall, near Ilkeston, is also referenced.” The couple’s romance has been documented both academically and in book form. In 1910 Lawrence wrote to his mother, who was ill in Leicester Hospital, ‘I have been to Leicester today and have met a girl
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who has always been warm to me - like a sunny happy day - and I've asked her to marry me: in the train quite unpremeditated between Rothley and Quorn’. Professor John Worthen and Dr Andrew Harrison of the D H Lawrence Research Centre examined the card for Hansons and provided the following information: “This unpublished postcard pre-dates Lawrence’s engagement to Louie Burrows, which happened in early December 1910’’. The postcard is Lot 10 in Hansons fourday Country House Fine Art & Library Auction incorporating Decorative Arts & Design at Bishton Hall from 2nd April. The hall (20 minutes drive from Lichfield) is open for viewing on Sunday 29th March 12pm to 4pm, Tuesday 31st March 11am to 4pm, Wednesday 1st April 11am to 7pm and Auction Days from 9am to 10.3am. For those unable to come can view the entire catalogue and bid live online at www.the-saleroom.com For further information please phone Bishton Hall on 01889 358050 or email enquiries@hansonsbishton.co.uk
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Combat the Boredom and Thrive!
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By Charlotte Benton
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f, like many of us, you are self-isolating at the moment, you may be feeling a little ‘lost’ and wondering how to fill your days. We’ve put together a few activities to avoid the repetitiveness of the Coronavirus isolation period.
As tempting as it may be to sit and binge-watch all of our favourite boxsets during this time of isolation, why not use this time productively to do all of those things that you have been putting off for so long? Of course you can still curl up in front of the TV for a few hours, but here are a few suggestions that might help to pass the time.
1. Channel your creative side Use this opportunity to let your creative juices flow. Sketch something that you have lying around the house or take part in some mindful colouring. You could even start your own blog or vlog, perhaps posting on a regular basis, so that you still feel in touch with the rest of the world. 2. Keep your brain active From televised quiz shows to crosswords and Sudoku puzzles, there are many ways that we can put our brains to the test. You could create a quiz that your household could take part in or you could listen to a new podcast on any subject that you choose. 3. Play board games Challenge your family members to a board game tournament and see who comes out on top after several lengthy games. There is no better way to pass the time than through a never-ending game of Monopoly.
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4. Bake Indulge your sweet tooth and bake some of your favourite treats.
Baking is sure to earn you some brownie points in your household. Don’t forget to thoroughly wash your hands before you start! 5. Stay active and exercise We are all aware of both the physical and mental benefits of exercise. Whilst in isolation you could transform any spare space that you have into a yoga studio and stretch it out, or replace your gym visit with a home workout, simply using the resistance of your own body weight. With no equipment needed, you can start off with 10 push-ups… Go! 6. Declutter your home Take this opportunity to clear out your wardrobe or reorganise the drawers that seem to have accumulated all sorts of miscellaneous items. A good clear out will not only help to tidy up your home, but it can also be really therapeutic. For the time being keep hold of the items that you no longer need and drop them at your local charity shop when shops are open once again. 7. Care for your garden Brighten up your day by planting some new flowers or sewing some seeds in your garden.You could even attempt to grow some of your own vegetables if you have the space. Even if you only have a small balcony or terrace you could maybe invest in some small potted plants that you could attend to over the coming summer months. 8. Read a book Now is the perfect opportunity to start that book that has been sitting on your shelf for far too long. Reading is an ideal way to wind down in the evening before heading off to bed and could also help you get a peaceful night’s sleep. 9. Keep in touch with your loved ones Remember to reach out to your friends and family to see how they are getting on during this uncertain time. In this day and age, many of us are fortunate enough to have immediate access to social media, so drop them a text or a video call just to see how they are doing. Failing that, simply give your loved ones a quick phone call. 10. Learn a new skill If you are feeling rather adventurous you could attempt to learn a new skill. Perhaps you have always wanted to learn to knit or fancy learning a new language? There are numerous apps and online tutorials that can get you well on your way. Challenge yourself to have something to show for your time in isolation, whether that be a knitted scarf or a few phrases that you can use on a future trip abroad. Before we know it our daily routines will return to normal, but in the meantime let’s try and remain as productive, and positive, as we can; we’ll thank ourselves later!
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Advertising Feature
Your Garden in April By Byron Lewis
As we start the month on a rather unpredictable note in more ways than one, it's worth keeping in mind that gardening still carries on! If you've not been able to get out in the garden over the winter with all the wet weather, take any opportunity when the weather is pleasant to get outside. Whether it's lawns that need mowing for the first time since last year, or those Roses that didn't get pruned as normal, working in the garden is good for you.
April is traditionally a month of sunshine and showers so a good time to be planting, where the rain can help to water your newly planted shrubs and perennials. Remember to add food to your soil when planting to get your plants off to the best possible start. Bonemeal is a good fertiliser which encourages strong root development to make better plants overall. If you're planting anything which likes acid soil - Azalea, Camellia, Rhododrendrons etc, these will appreciate an iron feed to keep leaves looking good. Any good weather we do get in April can also tempt people to plant things out too early. If you see summer patio plants available, remember they won't tolerate the frost or cold wind - if you've got a greenhouse or conservatory by all means buy them and grow them on but don't put them in cold garden soil or they will sulk! The same applies to vegetable seedlings - hardier varieties are fine but don't plant Runner Beans or Tomato plants out until at least the end of April. One night of frost is all it takes to kill them... you have been warned!! April is also a good time to start a new cottage garden border - right now there is a great selection of old fashioned favourites like Lupins, Hollyhocks and Foxglove which once planted will last for years with relatively little maintenance. Plant in groups of 3 to encourage large clumps to form - these will look great when established. Keep an eye out for slugs and snails - the young growth can be tasty to these pests. Try using broken egg shells or sharp sand around the plants to discourage the little blighters! Finally in these uncertain times, remember gardening is good for you!
Lichfield Garden Centre is now closed but it offering a delivery service. Find out more by calling 01543 254306, visiting www.lichfieldgardencentre.co.uk or find us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter. 22
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The Burntwood Asylum at St Matthew’s By Jono Oates ..................
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oday, St Matthew’s at Burntwood is known as a housing estate and a social club but its history lies in the world of hospitals and patient’s mental care as it was previously the site of the Burntwood Asylum.
Public asylums started to be built after 1808 when the County Asylums Act was passed and in 1845 it became compulsory for counties to build them. There were three asylums in Staffordshire: Burntwood; Cheddleton and at Stafford, the county town. The Burntwood Asylum was designed by William Lambie Moffatt, a Scottish architect who designed many churches, poorhouses, workhouses and, from the 1850s onwards, many asylums. It was built on a 94-acre site at Hobstone Hill, close to Woodhouses and Christchurch and at an initial cost of £65,000. The building was officially opened in December 1864 and had a central block with two wings on either side, one for male patients and one for female, with sufficient beds for 480 patients in total. The site continued to expand and a churchyard was added, along with a chapel which held a Mass for the local Roman Catholic congregation. A bakehouse was also added and the site had its own gas and electric supply, a fire brigade, a farm and gardens so that it eventually became a fully self-contained unit, and community, in its own right. A clock tower was built in 1921 which was provided by William Worthington, whose family owned nearby Maple Hayes, now the dyslexia school. Due to its development the Burntwood Asylum became recognised as one of the most efficient, and progressive, asylums and soon patients were transferred from outside the local area, from other counties including Worcestershire and Northamptonshire.
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Following the First World War there was a new approach to the issues, and treatment, of mental health and the asylum was renamed as the Burntwood Mental Hospital. In World War II the hospital added an additional emergency building which looked after casualties from the frontline, many of whom were survivors from the Dunkirk evacuation. After the war the emergency hospital was closed and the Mental Hospital was renamed as St Matthew’s Hospital in 1948 and was part of the newly-founded National Health Service mental health services. During the 1980s the new ‘Care in the Community’ programme was rolled out, which meant that many patients were transferred to private organisations and become part of community initiatives. Large sections of St Matthew’s Hospital became abandoned and the main building became vandalised and developed structural faults. In 1995 St Matthew’s Hospital was closed down and, eventually, the site was redeveloped as a housing estate. Over 300 houses were built and the only parts of the original buildings that remained were the St Matthew’s Social Club, along with the chapel and the administration block, which was converted into apartments. In 2003 the chapel was purchased by Busy Bees childcare and is now a children’s nursery. The Burntwood Asylum was recognised as a leading example of mental health provision in the 1860s and provided mental health care for its patients up to the 1980s. Today the name of St Matthew’s still provides a link to its past as one of only three asylums in the county of Staffordshire. Sources: www.bfhg.org.uk (the Burntwood Family History Group); The Staffordshire Asylum Records website
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The Month in Pictures
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March
e take a look at the events and activities over the last month, bringing you a roundup of the city in pictures...
Beacon Parkrun for International Women's Day
Lichfield Cathedral School at St Chad's Well for Feast of St Chad Day
McCarthy and Stone residents visit the Courtyard Fine Art Gallery
Lichfield Grub Club around the Market Square
Pancake Race Winners
Producers Market on the Market Square Runners at the Fradley 10k Race
Early Doors music event at the Hub at St Mary's
Spamalot at Lichfield Garrick
Women's Pancake Race
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Images by Jono Oates www.jonotourism.co.uk
Start of the Beacon Parkrun
St Chad's Day procession from Lichfield Cathedral School
Snapped a picture at a local event that you'd like to see in Month in Pics? Send your photos to jonocitylife@gmail.com for consideration.
It’s Time to Boost your Career
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s adults we live busy lives, but it is never too late to boost your career.
There are tons of career-boosting and leisure courses on offer at South Staffordshire College which you can study part time alongside other commitments or from the comfort of your own home. What’s more if you are a job seeker, or currently earn less than £16,009, your course could be free! You can study part time courses, free distance learning, English and maths, ESOL, Access to HE diplomas, University level courses and leisure courses as well as STEP UP employability programmes designed to get you back into work. Part time courses With courses such as cyber security, social media and analytics, 18th edition electrical, cabin crew, dog grooming, digital, beauty, construction, IT skills, ESOL and many more, now is the time to boost your skills, CV and get that new job or promotion you deserve. Free English and maths If you don’t already hold a C/4 grade or above, you can study English and maths for free with flexible study options so you can study at college or online at home in your own time. It’s never too late to gain these skills which are vital to everyday life and work situations. Free distance learning courses Gain a recognised qualification in business, customer service, health care, digital skills and more. Courses start at any time and you can study from home at your own pace, around your current commitments. Get in touch with South Staffordshire College today to boost your confidence, skills, salary, create an impressive CV, or get back into work. To find out about more visit www.southstaffs.ac.uk/adults
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Tastes of the Season Spring is in the Air! By Simon Smith
In celebration of spring I have done a couple of lamb recipes which work equally well during BBQ season, so keep these in your recipe folder. Spring Lamb Steak with Crushed Jersey Royals and Rosemary & Mango Salsa
4x leg of lamb steaks 600g Jersey Royals (or any small new potato) 40g butter 1x red onion 1x mango 2x tomatoes, medium size 1x sprig fresh rosemary 2x sprigs fresh mint 1x clove garlic (optional)
Method Boil the Jersey Royals until cooked, drain and then crush with a fork. Season and add butter and chopped fresh mint. Form into a cylinder
in a pastry cutter. If done the day before these can then be reheated in the oven. For the salsa, finely dice the mango, red onion, garlic and deseeded tomato. Mix together and add the chopped rosemary. Heat a griddle pan and sear the lamb steaks until cooked to your liking (pink for me) dress on the plate next to the potato and sprinkle the salsa on top. Thai Style Lamb Salad
4x leg of lamb steaks 1pkt fresh bean sprouts 1x bunch spring onions 1x finely sliced red onion 1x bunch spring onions 1x fresh lime 1x small chilli 1x small tub fried onions 200g salted peanuts 1xtsp pickled ginger
Win a Copy of Simmering Through the Ages
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collection of unique and mouth-watering recipes from the annals of history brought back to life by culinary historian, Professor Roland Rotherham, and celebrity chef, Simon Smith.
Written with humour and translated from many different historical sources, this book provides a veritable feast of fabulous food and fascinating facts from the Pharaoh’s banquets of Ancient Egypt right through to the decadent splendour of the Victorian tea table. At long last, wild boar pie, braised elk and stuffed dormouse are back on the menu!
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1xtbsp fresh coriander 1x tbsp fresh mint 1 x tbsp ponzu or soy sauce Method Finely slice the spring onions and red onion. In a bowl mix together with the bean sprouts, lime zest and juice, coriander, chilli and mint. Put on a plate ready to serve Fry the lamb steaks to your liking again and then slice finely. Lay on top of the salad and at the last minute sprinkle with the fried onion and peanuts. Simon Smith runs a catering business from his production kitchen in Lichfield, providing bespoke private dinners plus wedding, corporate and event catering. Simon also undertakes cookery demonstrations around the country and with local businesses such as Arthur Price and Tippers. During the summer months Simon works for private clients both on superyachts and in villas in St Tropez and Europe. If you are looking for catering or a day of cookery skills go to www.simonsmith-chef.com
We’ve got 5 copies of Simmering Through the Ages to give away! To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question correctly:
Which celebrity chef collaborated on this book? a) Simon Smith b) Simon Cowell c) Simon Says
To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to Simon Competition at competitioncitylife@gmail.com or post your entry to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield WS14 4JS by the closing date of 20th April 2020. One entry per household. Multiple entries will be disqualified. No cash equivalent. Please note you must be 18 or over to enter. All entrants’ information is processed in line with GDPR Data Protection Regulations and our Privacy Policy (available at citylifeinlichfieldltd.co.uk). Full t&cs on page 30.
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Sponsorship – A ‘Greyt’ Gift
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By Lauren Hirst of Greyhound Trust Hall Green
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ith social distancing in place, all of Hall Green’s awareness raising events have been cancelled or postponed until further notice. However, we’d like to let people know what excellent pets ex-racing greyhounds make and tell people how they can still continue to support the work we do. Our awareness-raising roadshows are crucial in raising funds to contribute to cost of looking after the 40 greyhounds in our care (which currently costs £4,000 per month). Due to Covid-19 outbreak, we are currently exploring alternative ways of raising funds and one such way is through our Sponsorship Scheme which makes a great gift for an animal lover in your life. Sponsorship starts from as little as £3 per month per hound (£36 per year) or £6 per month to sponsor a kennel (£72 a year). You can, of course, give more if you wish or indeed make a one-off donation of any amount. Every little bit helps. Our sponsor dogs all have some sort of additional needs. These can be medical, behavioural, or both. Sponsorship enables these dogs to live in loving homes while receiving the help that they need. The Trust assists with vet bills, advice from behaviourists, and other treatments. Sponsorship will also help other dogs in our care who need some extra help.
Stay Active with Free Home-Based Workouts
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reedom Leisure, which runs Friary Grange and Burntwood Leisure Centres, is offering free, home-based exercise classes, courtesy of Les Mills – the world renowned group exercise company. The firm has provided access to more than 100 classes online, from Body Combat to children’s classes, there’s something for everyone to ensure people stay active and healthy during COVID-19 disruptions. Simply click go to the website at https://watch.lesmillsondemand.com/at-home-workouts and choose which one is right for you. There's no need to register, just get comfortable and take part in as many classes as you want.
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Bear is one our sponsor dogs. He was born June 2014 and became a Hall Green Sponsor Hound on 1st October 2018. Bear suffers from two very rare conditions that affect his balance and his immune system. The Branch has already spent over £6,500 on helping Bear and it is hoped that he will now have a long and happy life. Visit our website to read about our other sponsor dogs, Frazer, Ruby, Tara, and Teddy. https://www.greyhoundtrusthallgreen.org.uk/sponsor-agreyhound/ and download a sponsor form. In return you will receive a small gift from your hound, a Christmas and Valentine’s card, and updates about his or her progress. We are also happy to arrange for you to meet your sponsor hound to have a hug and a cuddle. Competition and Prize Draw Terms and Conditions 1.Entrants’ details will be held and processed in line with Citylife in Lichfield Ltd’s Privacy Policy, which in turn adheres to GDPR Data Protection legislation. For a copy of our Privacy Policy please email josscitylife@gmail.com 2.By entering the prize draw/competition, you agree to the terms and conditions stated. 3.The closing date is stated on each individual prize draw or competition. 4.Entrants’ details will be securely held by Citylife in Lichfield Ltd in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Details will be held only until the closing date of the competition. After this date entrants’ details will be securely destroyed/deleted. Winners’ contact details will be securely stored only until the winner has been informed of their win/prize. After this details will be securely deleted/destroyed. 5.Entrants’ details will never be shared with any third party. The only exception to this is the name (and if the prize is to be posted) address of Competition/Prize Draw winners that will be communicated to the competition partner to allow winners to securely claim their prize, after which all details will be securely destroyed. The initial and surname of winners will be printed in our magazines – no other details will be published. 6.By entering the competition/prize draw, entrants agree to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd using or publishing materials provided by the entrants (but not address or contact details apart from initial and surname) in any of their publications and online. 7.Citylife in Lichfield Ltd accepts no responsibility for any breach of copyright or breach of any other legislation entailed by entrants in their creation or submission of materials. 8.Only one entry per prize draw/competition, per reader. 9.Except in the case of cash prizes, no cash equivalent will be offered and the prize is nontransferable. 10.All prizes are subject to availability and the prize suppliers' terms and conditions. 11.No purchase necessary. 12.Prize draws and competitions are only open to UK residents aged 18 years or over (unless otherwise stated).
13.Competitions and prize draws may not be entered by any employee of individual associated with any employee, agent or third party of Citylife in Lichfield Ltd. 14.Winners will be selected at random in the case of applicable prize draws and competitions, or by an independent judge in the case of photographic/art competitions from all entries received. 15.Winners will be notified by Citylife in Lichfield up to 28 days after the closing date of the competition/prize draw by the contact details provided by the entrant. 16.A list of the surnames and county of residence of the winners will be available by writing to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd no earlier than six weeks after the competition closing date. 17.When the prize draw/competition winner has been selected, this decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 18.Citylife in Lichfield Ltd accepts no responsibility for the prize being lost, damaged or delayed in transit. When the prize is provided by a third party, Citylife in Lichfield Ltd accepts no responsibility for any change to the prize, or for the quality of the prize provided. 19.Competitions may be amended or withdrawn at any time. 20.By entering the competition or prize draw, you agree to having your name, (photograph, where stated) and city or county of residence published in any of Citylife in Lichfield’s publications and online. 21.Unless otherwise stated, the promoter is Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. 22. Citylife in Lichfield Ltd do not express any warranty or endorsement of any competition prize, information, service or product provided in connection with a competition by printing or otherwise publicising any competition. 23.To the full extent of the law, Citylife in Lichfield Ltd shall not be liable for any loss, claim, punitive, indirect, incidental or consequential damages of any kind incurred as a result of entering this prize draw or competition. 24.By submitting photos, text or artworks as part of competition/prize draw entries you agree that you own these photos text or artworks, that it is your original work to which you own all rights to distribute, and that your entry is accurate, moral and legal.
J HOWELL & DAUGHTERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS LICHFIELD
LICHFIELD’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED INDEPENDENT, FAMILY RUN FUNERAL DIRECTORS. SECOND GENERATION BUSINESS HERE TO ASSIST YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. 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 hearse, non religious ceremonies, floral tributes and memorials are but a few of the services we offer. Pre-paid funeral plans are also available.
For a truly personal service please call
01543 255776
Private Chapel of Rest 116 Netherstowe, Lichfield, Staffs. WS13 6TS
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A Message from Lichfield City Council ..........................................................
Dear Residents,
Following the escalation of the government response to COVID-19, a number of proposals are being discussed to allow the City Council to continue its day to day functions in these unprecedented circumstances. However, there has also been a need to make some difficult decisions. The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum will close to the public with effect from Thursday 19 March until further notice; we will keep the closure under constant review. The civic functions of the council will be particularly affected, the annual St George’s Court, due to be held in the Guildhall on St George’s Day has been cancelled due to the volume of people who normally attend. Senior officers and Councillors are engaged in ongoing liaison with partners in regard to other Civic events scheduled to take place during April, May and beyond. I would however like to reassure all hirers of the Guildhall that whilst the building remains open, anyone wishing to cancel their booking will be given a full refund. Similar arrangements are in place at the City Council owned Boley
Park Community Hall, Darwin Hall, Curborough Community Centre and Cruck House.
The General Markets and Producers Market are continuing as normal for the moment, pending further government advice on retail activities. A number of proposals that will enable the Council to continue to carry out its other duties are either under discussion or are already in place. In all instances the safety of both the public and City Council staff is of paramount concern and it is likely that further difficult decisions will need to be taken over the coming weeks or months. Up to date information can be found on the “News” page on the City Council’s website at www.lichfield.gov.uk or by calling the Switchboard on 01543 250011 I look forward to the time when I can bring you more positive news, but in the meantime, and on behalf of the City Council, I wish you all well as we face this considerable challenge. Councillor Mark Warfield Leader of Lichfield City Council
Got a story or charity event you want to share with our readership? Think you’ve snapped an image that captures the spirit of the region? We want to hear from you! Contact Citylife at kristencitylife@gmail.com
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Lichfield District Coronavirus Relief Fund
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Just Giving appeal has been launched to raise funds to support people and communities across the district that have been affected by COVID-19 (coronavirus). Lichfield District Council has been overwhelmed with the community response to the COVID-19 crisis. Lots of people are joining in the volunteering effort and have been offering to help their neighbours and community members who are selfisolating. Many more have asked how they can help. In response, the council has set up a Just Giving page to raise money to help community groups across Lichfield District to support local people most in need. The Lichfield coronavirus relief fund will help voluntary and community groups to continue supporting vulnerable members of the community. This could include delivering meals to people who might not be able to prepare them themselves, providing befriending services, and developing online support. To donate, please visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/lichfieldcoronavirus. The council has created a coronavirus section on its website that has more information about community support, business support, service updates and public health information. Visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/coronavirus.
March Winner
Congratulations to D Townsend of Burntwood who is the winner of the Just Granite competition! 34
Well done!
Chasewater A ‘Virtual’ Tour .....................
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pring has sprung and the nights are becoming lighter, however few of us are able to get out and enjoy it due to the Government restrictions following the Covid19 outbreak. Instead, Jono Oates leads us on a virtual stroll round the stunning waters of Chasewater and delves into its history.
Set in over 900 acres, of which 200 acres is water, Chasewater is the third largest reservoir in Staffordshire in terms of volume, and also provides a wonderful location to go for a stroll and admire the views, as well as the abundant wildlife. The reservoir also has an extended history which goes back to the end of the 18th century and is linked to both the extensive canal and railway networks that helped propel the Midlands into an industrial powerhouse. The first reservoir was formed in 1797 on the site of the Crane Brook Valley and was originally called the Norton Pool and Cannock Chase Reservoir. It provided water to sustain the Great Wyrley and Essington Canal, which was part of the Birmingham Canal Network, and which suffered from lack of water due to the large number of canal locks in the area, which consumed water at a very high rate. The reservoir dam, however, burst in 1799 and the whole local area was flooded, with the floodwaters reaching as far as the village of Shenstone some five miles away. The dam was strengthened and rebuilt in 1800 with a design by Thomas Dadford, a noted canal engineer, and despite some remedial work in 2010 it has remained intact ever since. In 1849 John Robinson McLean developed the South Staffordshire Railway Line and, due to the proximity of the collieries of the Cannock Chase Colliery Company, by 1871 a railway line was linked around the reservoir supplying coal across
the Midlands and beyond. Parts of the original railway line are now used by the Chasewater Railway heritage museum. By the 1950s the use of the canal network had significantly declined and large sections of the Great Wyrley and Essington Canal had closed, therefore reducing the demands on the reservoir. In 1957 the Brownhills Urban District Council purchased the reservoir for £5,600 and it became re-named as, simply, Chasewater. The reservoir now changed its purpose from industrial to recreational as sailing boats and speed boats took to the waters and restaurants and cafes opened. Visitors came in their thousands to walk round the waters and spot the increasing influx of wildlife, flora and fauna as the reservoir became a natural habitat. There are a number of walks around Chasewater for when the Government restrictions are over, some of which are on wide, cinder paths and roads, and others that will take you through forested areas and right up to the water’s edge. The best place to start any of the walks is at the Chasewater Innovation Centre on Pool Road at Brownhills, where there is ample parking. Call in to the centre to pick up a walking trail map of the site and ask advice about the best, and most suitable, walk for your group or family. Walking clockwise from the centre takes you towards the Brownhills West station of the Chasewater Railway heritage museum. The history of the heritage railway line goes back to the 1960s and a two mile section of the original colliery track is in operation today, with the Santa Specials railway trips being very popular at Christmas. As well as the heritage railway museum the Sidings Railway café provides light refreshments and is a great stop off point for a coffee and a slice of cake during your walk. Walking counter-clockwise takes you along the reservoir dam wall and from there you can walk along road towards Burntwood Rugby Club, towards the town centre, or take one of the several forest paths by following the directional arrows to take you to the Chasewater Heaths station on the railway line, which has a shop and another café for a refreshments break. From there you can walk along to the Brownhills West station and back to the Innovation Centre. Walking around the main pool of Chasewater, using the designated paths, is approximately a three mile walk and will take, without refreshment breaks, an hour and a half at a gentle pace.Walking around the roads to encircle the whole of the
pool areas, will take nearly twice as long but will avoid the waterside paths. * Please note that the centre is currently closed due to the Covid-19 outbreak. You can keep up to date by visiting the website at www.enjoychasewater.co.uk/innovation-centre. ** PLEASE REMEMBER, IF YOU WISH TO EXERCISE, YOU MUST DO SO STARTING FROM YOUR OWN HOME, AND NOT TRAVEL ANYWHERE TO EXERCISE. PLEASE ONLY EXERCISE ALONE OR WITH MEMBERS OF YOUR OWN HOUSEHOLD. Sources: www.enjoychasewater.co.uk ; www.chasewaterrailway.co.uk
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One Week In W
........................................................ By Jo ‘totally over homeworking’ Howell ell, I’ve b e e n homew orking for a week now and let’s just say I have learnt a few things about myself and my neighbours! In addition to that my patience has been tested, my waistline is expanding, and the dog is totally confused at my constant presence.
Food, glorious food. Despite eating my usual three ‘healthy’ meals per day, I find myself eating more biscuits than ever before. Day 1 saw me polish off a packet of Jaffa cakes for breakfast and I don’t think the cream crunch are going to last until the weekend. Last night I was foraging for chocolate and found an out of date bar of Green & Blacks. It was disgusting but it satisfied my craving. Just.
Declutter? If I must I keep reading about people having a ‘good sort out’ whilst they’re stuck at home, so I thought I’d follow their lead and attack the (wo)man drawers in my kitchen. Sweet baby Jesus, it’s a job I wish I’d never started. The trouble with drawers is they are great for shoving stuff in and hoping it goes away. Tonight, I have found an empty Nintendo box, (do I even have a Nintendo?), a Christmas list from 2010, a skips worth of receipts and a CD rom for Clipart. Why is the only word I can think of. 36
Routine is the key The only way to make this ‘homeworking’ lark actually work is to try and keep to the same routine as you would if you were leaving the house.Well, sort of. Don’t put on your office clothes obviously, but equally don’t live in your pj’s or sweatpants.You will thank me for this tip eventually – especially if you keep eating biscuits for breakfast. Take your lunch at the same time, have your regular coffee breaks, walk away from the screen, talk to your new colleagues – yes this may be family members or the dog, but try and replicate as much of your usual workday at home. Most importantly, do not put on the TV – we all love Holly and Phil but it’s a slippery slope downhill when daytime tv takes over. Create a vision board One day in the not so distant future life will return back to normal. So why not start planning, thinking and dreaming of all the things you’re going to do? Creating a vison board with the family is a great way to spend an afternoon – let your imaginations run wild and find pictures, quotes and photographs of what life is going to look like this summer and beyond. Patience & understanding Whilst you’re at home 24/7, you’re going to notice things (or people) that may just grate on your nerves more than usual. My neighbour’s boy insists on kicking his football against the fence for a big part of the day – I wasn’t aware this was even on the school curriculum, but there you go. I’m trying to understand it’s the only way for him to release some energy and it’s pretty grim to be stuck at home with your annoying family when you’re 13 and full of teenage angst. We all need to try and understand each other’s situation at the moment and boy, it isn’t easy but just: Walk away. Lock yourself in the toilet. Breathe.
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