Citylife in Lichfield March 2020 by Citylife In Lichfield

Welcome to CITYLIFE

Welcome to CITYLIFE in Lichfield, a monthly magazine bringing you our pick of the city’s news, events and stories. Each month CITYLIFE in Lichfield 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

Inside...

6 Win Fish & Chips A great prize courtesy of The Strawberry Cabin

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16 Lichfield's First Lady Jono Oates recounts the life of Daisy Stuart Shaw

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22 Five Minutes With... Lichfield's Town Crier, Ken Knowles, is in the spotlight

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23 A Taste of Italy A review of one of the City's best-loved restaurants

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28 Hidden Spaces Underground at 10 Market Street

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41 Spring is in the Air The latest interior trends

From the Editor...

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

We’re told that March is officially springtime, although it might not feel like it at the moment! But despite the weather, we can all celebrate the gift of ‘Mothers’ this month as we treat the special ladies in our lives on Mothering Sunday (which is 22nd March – in case you didn’t know!) To help you choose the perfect gift we’ve got a Mother’s Day Gift Guide featuring all the fabulous, unique and, above all, local items you can buy from your favourite retailers in the area. There’s also a new monthly item which we’re delighted to bring you. Our ‘Five Minutes With…’ feature chooses an influential or wellknown Lichfeldian to interview each month to bring you a little insight into their lives! We kick off this month with Lichfield Town Crier, Ken Knowles. As usual, the issue is packed with local news stories, historical features, reader contributions and competitions for you to enter, so grab a mug of hot tea, get your slippers on, and have a great read!

Krissy

Win Fish & Chips at The Strawberry Cabin

Hints-based eatery, The Strawberry Cabin at Manor Farm, has some exciting events taking place in March.

If you’re looking for something a little different this year to treat your mum or a loved one over Mother’s Day weekend, take a look at the Cabin’s Breakfast with Bubbles menu, available on Saturday 21st March from 9am - 11am - it’s just too good to miss! For the big event there is also a two or three course menu available for Mothering Sunday, offering two sittings at 12:30pm or 2:30pm. It’s the perfect way to celebrate!

The Strawberry Cabin will also be hosting another Sauce Supper Club Evening on Tuesday 10th March featuring Caroline Martins from Michelinstarred London restaurant, Pidgin, which specialises in Brazilian cuisine. Tickets are available from www.saucesupperclub.co.uk.

To book for any events at The Strawberry Cabin, call 01543 483680 and speak to a member of the Cabin Crew.

We’ve teamed up with The Strawberry Cabin to offer one lucky winner Fish and Chips for Two. To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, simply answer the following question correctly:

Which family member has a day dedicated to them in March? a) Father b) Mother c) Grandparent To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to Strawberry Cabin 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 March 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 40.

LOCAL NEWS

Top Photographer to Visit Arboretum

Branston Golf & Country Club in February to brief the team on his plans to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics. Frazer's next big challenge is the Boxing Road to Tokyo Olympic Qualifying event at London's Copper Box Arena on 14th March. .......................................................................................

Funding for LHCRT Apprentices

Lichfield Camera Club is eagerly awaiting the arrival of internationally famous photographer, David Noton. The club is re-starting the series of highly successful lectures which will be held at the state-of-the-art Aspects Conference Centre at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas. David Noton is widely regarded as one of the finest travel and landscape photographers around, having won the BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year three times. His “Chasing the Light” roadshow has played to packed audiences around the country and uses the latest high definition projection technology to stage a full scale "show", with David utilising satellite imagery to transport you on a trip of a lifetime. The show starts at 7:30pm (doors open 6.30pm). Tickets are £15 and available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/lichfield-camera-club or by calling 0333 666 3366 (booking fee applies to phone bookings). .......................................................................................

Champion Boxer Drops in to Country Club!

Frazer Clarke spars with Health & Fitness Manager, Donna Smart (left), and Membership Adviser, George Wainwright (right)

Burton-born Commonwealth Gold Medal winner, Frazer Clarke, popped into the gym at

“The Gang of Four” by local historian, Jono Oates, dressed in full Georgian costume. Jono explained that, for Lichfield the key period was the 19th century, due to being located at the crossroads of the major coaching routes. He highlighted the importance to the City of four famous people, these being Samuel Johnson; David Garrick; Erasmus Darwin and Anna Seward. Club meetings take place at St Matthew’s Sports Club, Burntwood on the first Tuesday of every month and new members are always welcome. For more information, contact Peter on 07971 113505 or peter.hitchman44@gmail.com. .......................................................................................

Get Active with Walking Cricket

Lichfield's canal trust is appealing for funding to help its mechanical engineering academy apprentices. Four young people are learning engineering skills while helping to keep Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust's workshop facility running. The Trust, which is run entirely by volunteers, has been offered some trade-in machines from Wacker Neuson which will be great experience for the apprentices to get them up and running, serviced and then used on the canal restoration. But funding is still needed to keep the workshop going and to keep teaching vital skills to these youngsters. Donations can be made on the Lichfield and Hatherton Canal Restoration Trust Facebook page. .......................................................................................

Lichfield’s Notorious Gang of Four

At its recent monthly meeting, the City of Lichfield Probus Club enjoyed a talk entitled

A walking cricket group is on the hunt for more members to join in at its regular Thursday sessions. Men and women aged 50 and over are invited to join in a slower-paced, indoor format of cricket at Burntwood Leisure Centre. Running every Thursday, between 3.30pm and 5pm, the walking cricket sessions are a great way to remain involved in the game and meet new people while staying active. The sessions are run in partnership with Staffordshire Cricket and are part of Lichfield District Council’s Active Lichfield activities to improve wellbeing. Sessions cost £2.50 a time and there’s no need to book ahead. To find out more about Active Lichfield, visit www.activelichfield.co.uk.

LOCAL NEWS

Businesses Urged to Use Less Plastic

Lizzy Braine from The Kitchen Shop in Lichfield, which sells lots of plastic alternatives.

With the increasing awareness of the harm it is doing to the environment, Lichfield District Council launched its Waste Less Plastic campaign in September 2019 which highlighted how to avoid plastic packaging and throwaway items to its residents. In the second phase of the campaign, the council is now urging local businesses to consider how they can cut down the amount of plastic produced and to encourage recycling. Helpful tips include: • Sell items, such as fruit and vegetables, loose rather than in packaging • Encourage customers to bring their own cups and charge extra for single-use • Provide paper bags and encourage customers to use their own • Offer condiments in bottles and jars • Use washable plates and cutlery or biodegradable takeaway items • Switch to paper straws and only offer them when requested The council is also using the initiative to encourage local businesses to recycle as much as possible by setting up a recycling collection. Call the team on 01543 687580 or 687588 or email waste.strategy@lichfielddc.gov.uk. More information on how to reduce, reuse and recycle is available at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/wasteless. .......................................................................................

Lichfield Festival Launches Choir Competition

Lichfield Festival 2017 (image by Redlock Photography)

The search is on! Lichfield Festival has launched a brand new competition to find the inaugural Midlands Choir of the Year. The winning vocal group will receive a cash prize as well as the chance to perform live at the 40th Lichfield Festival in 2021. Open to amateur, adult singing groups, the Festival is keen to hear from ensembles of all types and from all musical genres – from gospel to barbershop, classical to jazz, rock to a cappella, sacred or secular – and entries are being encouraged across the Midlands region from Derbyshire and Herefordshire to Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire. Semi-final and final rounds will be held live during this year’s Festival in July with the final itself taking place in Lichfield Cathedral. Choirs need to complete an online application and send their recorded entry ahead of the closing date of 31st March. Full details are available at www.mcoty.org. .......................................................................................

Repair and Share!

The Repair & Share Café has been running for around 18 months now and each session results in repairs to about 15-20 items. This can be anything from electricals, garden equipment, clothing, toys, clocks… you name it! There is fantastic community spirit at each event as volunteer repairers help people to keep their much-loved items, reducing the need to take things to landfill. The Repair & Share Café runs on the third Saturday of each month from 2pm-5pm at Curborough Community Centre, Watery Lane, Lichfield. Refreshments are served and attendees are encouraged to chat with others, share their stories and their skills. .......................................................................................

Weathering the Storm

Early February saw Storm Ciara batter the country with destructive, high winds, and Lichfield Cathedral was no exception! The mediaeval building saw a section of glass blown in and other sections in need of further assessment by a team of steeplejacks.Whilst the Cathedral remained open, the Nave was closed off to the public as a safety measure.

A Cathedral has stood on the site at Lichfield for over 1300 years and has withstood storms, wars and collapse. Now this ancient building is facing a lack of funding that is seeing basic and essential repair works being delayed until funds become available. Lichfield Cathedral receives no government funding but relies solely on the generosity of local businesses and communities, and voluntary donations from visitors. There is no entrance fee for visiting the Cathedral, instead a donation is encouraged to go towards its upkeep. Please help to keep Lichfield Cathedral open for generations to come by donating on your next visit or online at www.lichfieldcathedral.org/donate/.

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Volunteers Needed for Historic Prison

New volunteer welcomers are needed for Lichfield’s historic prison to help greet more than 5,000 visitors this summer. There has been a prison on the site since 1548 and visitors can see some of the original cells and find out about the stories of their former inmates, such as Edward Wightman, the last man to be burnt at the stake in England for heresy. This year is an exciting time to join the team, as four cells will now be open to the public, and new sounds and smells have also been added to help visitors imagine what life would have been like. The cells will be open from 10am-4pm each Saturday from April to October. Volunteering opportunities can be very flexible. To find out more contact Penny Taylor on 01543 264 972, email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk, or pop in to the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum.

LOCAL NEWS

Remembering Kathleen

F2F in Successful Lottery Bid

looking for people with enthusiasm and commitment. A volunteer away day is being held on Friday 27th March (09.30am - 2.30pm) for anyone interested in joining. Contact Robin on 07738939271 or email r.taylor@virgin.net for more information. .......................................................................................

A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday 15th February for Kathleen Mary Sawyer, who passed away on 8th January. Over 300 people attended the service at the Guildhall to remember Kathleen, and more than £2,000 was raised for the intensive care unit at Good Hope Hospital and St. Giles Hospice. The celebration was led by celebrant Steve Brown and tributes were given by her husband Chris Sawyer, son Mark Sawyer, dear friend Sue Riley, and colleague Gemma Rushton. As Kathleen had donated her body to medical science there was no funeral. .......................................................................................

Probus’ Donation to Blood Bikes Charity

Friends 2 Friends (F2F) Lichfield, an informal support scheme for adults with learning and other disabilities, has received a lottery grant for £9,800 to help expand its network and base to now incorporate Burton following the close of the town’s statutory services. F2F trustees developed the bid in response to requests from disabled people and their carers who wish to gain skills and confidence to become more independent. It will also help to develop peer support inter-dependency rather than being directed by carers and other nonlearning disabled people into activities and unrequested occupations. This plan has a very high emphasis on healthier and more active participation, helping to develop stronger communities and giving people more fulfilling lives and better life chances. .......................................................................................

Local Heritage Site Needs Volunteers

Christmas seem may a long time ago but staff at Lichfield Cathedral were delighted with the thousands of visitors who flocked to take in the festive atmosphere, with more than 50 decorated trees lining the aisles. Of the trees, 21 were decorated by businesses, 19 by charities and 15 by schools for the event, sponsored by Greenwood Projects in Lichfield. More than 9,000 people voted for their favourites in what turned out to be the closest competition yet. The winners were: in the business category Pool House Veterinary Group, Burntwood Breast Care Group in the charity section and Lichfield Cathedral School, Longdon, in the schools section. ......................................................................................

Lichfield Producers’ Market

Past Chairman, Stan Rose, presents a cheque to Roger and David of Shropshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire Blood Bikes

Lichfield Beacon Probus Chairman, Stan Rose, handed over to new Chairman, Brian Harper, recently after a successful two years in office. During his time, Stan has fulfilled many exciting activities, as well as supporting his charity for the year, Staffordshire, Shropshire and Cheshire Blood Bikes, and raising £300 towards its good work. Stan presented the charity with a cheque at the Club’s latest meeting. There is an impressive collection of speakers lined up for 2020 along with many social events, including a London trip and a holiday on the Isle of Wright. The Club meets on the third Tuesday of the month at St Matthews Sports and Social Club, Burntwood, at 2.30pm and new members are always made very welcome. Further details available from Malford Harris at 01543 411993 or email lichfieldbeacon@gmail.com.

Christmas Tree Festival Winners

The Lichfield Waterworks Trust is transforming Sandfields Pumping Station in Chesterfield Road into a unique community space which celebrates the heritage of the building, whilst providing the city with a new events and arts venue. As the project is developing and growing, the Trust now needs more volunteers to join the existing team. There are opportunities to get involved in all areas, from helping with the practical side of things to supporting with events, marketing and fundraising activities. Anyone with particular skills to offer is welcome, but the Trust is also

A Producers’ Market will take place in Lichfield on the first Sunday of every month, starting on 1st March, between 10am and 4pm. Working in partnership with Lichfield City Council, the market will boast a fantastic range of beautiful stalls, selling wholesome locallyproduced food and other goods, including an excellent choice of handmade arts and crafts.

Advertising Feature

Inheritance Tax

What do you really know about Inheritance Tax? How much tax do you want to pay when you die? Are you married, single, co-habitating, divorced or something else? Do you know this could make a difference to the amount of tax due when you die? Do you know what your nil rate band is, or how much it is? Do you know what the residential nil rate band is, or how much it is? Do you know if you qualify? Would you be happy to pay Inheritance Tax at 40% on part of your estate? Would you prefer your children, grandchildren and family to get more of your estate? I may be able to help you reduce or eliminate your potential inheritance tax liability. You can visit our office in Shenstone or I can visit you at home to discuss your financial needs which may 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. 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 inhouse research, client liaison and administration teams. As a 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 the 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. The value of pensions and investments and the income they produce can fall as well as rise and you may get back less than you invested. Estate planning, inheritance tax planning and long-term care are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Our first meeting will be at my cost and there is no obligation to proceed further. It is often said that people deal with people so please give me a call or drop me an email, lets have a chat, and we can take it from there. I hope to hear from you soon.

Robin Place DipFA, CeLTCI, MLIBF Financial Adviser 0121 323 2070, 07968 504805 robin@fouroaksfs.com

Lichfield Literature Festival

A fantastic line-up of fiction authors and academic writers are heading for this year’s Lichfield Literature Festival to entertain and inform book-lovers across the City through engaging and exciting activities and events. Between 26th29th March, celebrate the written word, meet debut and best-selling authors alike and hear them talk about the books they write - all right here in Lichfield! Amanda Owen - the Yorkshire Shepherdess - is including the Festival in her sell out national tour and will be sharing her experiences of farming from her latest book in the gorgeous setting of Lichfield Cathedral. Marking the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale's birth, biographer Mark Bostridge is giving an insight into her fascinating life; while returning author Henry Hitchings talks on why Samuel Johnson still matters today; and historian Nathan Amin shares his knowledge on The Beaufort family. Gardening fans can hear Beth Lynch inspire you to find "a sense of well-being in a green place of one's own". There is plenty for fiction fans too - not least 'Killer Women', a crime writing panel of fiction authors. Among debut authors to discover are Ashley Hickson-Lovence's hard-hitting 'The 392' and Susannah Stapleton's 'Adventures of Maud West: Lady Detective'.

Ashley Hickson-Lovence

There is plenty for younger festival-goers too, with a fairy tale themed creative writing workshop, Lichfield's very own prize-winning Laura Wood, and a thrilling chance for families to meet the editor of what is undoubtedly the most popular non-fiction children's book of all – The Guinness Book of Records. The theme for Lichfield Festival this year is art inspired by art, so the programme features work inspired by other art forms, including dance and theatre, as well as the Festival's very first poetry slam with former Staffordshire poet laureate Emily Galvin. All sessions are interactive with book readings, a chance to ask questions and buy signed copies of books. Tickets for Lichfield Literature 2020 are available: In person at the Lichfield Cathedral Gift Shop Mon-Sat 9.30am-5pm and Sun 10am-4pm. Online at www.lichfieldliteraturefestival.org.

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

Victoria Hospital in the 1930s (Photograph courtesy of You're Probably From Lichfield If... Facebook group)

Daisy Stuart Shaw Lichfield’s First Lady

Plaque bearing Daisy's name on the Clock Tower

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n November 1919 Daisy Stuart Shaw made history by becoming the first female councillor of Lichfield City Council, before going on to become the first female mayor and alderman of the city. Our resident historian, Jono Oates, looks at the life of Lichfield’s First Lady and discovers how her political journey started with the help of the Suffragettes and Votes for Women. When Daisy Stuart Shaw walked through the ancient doors of the Lichfield Guildhall in November 1919 to join her first meeting as a councillor at Lichfield City Council, she must have thought that she was not only a trail blazer, but also that she was fulfilling the dream of all the suffragettes who had been fighting for Votes for Women for that last 30 years. Daisy was the first female city councillor but was only able to take her seat round the council meeting table due to one of the most significant political acts of the 20th century - The Representation of the People’s Act 1918 which gave women, and many previously disadvantaged men, the vote for the first time. Born Daisy Ramsay in Edinburgh, she married Thomas David Stuart Shaw, a General Practitioner, and moved from Gloucester to Lichfield in 1905 when her husband took over the surgery practice of Dr Welchman. Before she married, Daisy had been a nurse in Edinburgh and, following the move, she became very involved in working with the Victoria Cottage Hospital which, at that time, was in Sandford Street. In 1914, at the outbreak of the First World War, Daisy worked as a Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) Red Cross Nurse at Freeford Manor, the estate of the Dyott family, which had been opened as a military hospital for soldiers wounded in action. In February 1918, a few months before the Great War came to an end, the Government passed the Representation of the People’s Act 1918 which gave women the vote for the first time. The Act was a culmination of nearly 30 years’ work by the suffrage movement which had campaigned for voting equality. In November 1919 Daisy Stuart Shaw became a councillor for the South Ward in Lichfield, therefore becoming the first female councillor at Lichfield City Council. The timing of this appointment is critical as, prior to 1918, Daisy Stuart Shaw could not have become a councillor as she did not have the vote herself. Daisy remained as a councillor for over 20 years and took a particular interest in the rights of women, particularly those who were widowed or were on low income, the welfare of children, and on housing reform. In 1927 Daisy became the first female Mayor of Lichfield and took part in the official reopening of the Clock Tower on The Friary in 1928, after it had been relocated, brick by brick, from its original location on the

Daisy in her nurse's Uniform (photograph courtesy of the British Newspaper Archive) junction of Bore Street, St John Street and Bird Street. Both Daisy and Thomas Stuart Shaw were supporters of the Victoria Cottage Hospital, which had been opened in 1889. By the 1920s it had become far too small to handle the increasing number of patients and the Stuart Shaw’s took part in a public fundraising exercise which allowed the building of a new, purpose built, hospital on land off The Friary, on the other side of the Bowling Green public house.Thomas also provided his medical services to the new hospital voluntarily and they both dedicated many hours of their own time, and funds, which was very important to a new hospital in the days before the National Health Service. In 1938, in recognition of her long service, her dedication to Lichfield City Council, and for her tireless voluntary work in and around the city, Daisy was made the first female alderman of Lichfield. An alderman was an ancient title conferred upon a senior member of the council and was voted for, and appointed by, other elected members. By the 1970s most councils had discontinued the title of alderman. In 1945, after spending nearly 40 years in Lichfield, the Stuart Shaw’s retired and moved away from their adopted city. The General Committee of the Victoria Hospital made a presentation to the Stuart Shaw’s and presented Thomas with a silver salver and Daisy with a ‘handsome lady’s handbag’. Alderman Frank Garratt (of Garratt’s Bakery) said that Daisy Stuart Shaw had ‘rendered outstanding services of a public and charitable nature’ and that as the first female councillor, mayor and alderman of Lichfield, she had ‘made history’. Daisy passed away in 1955 in Castle Douglas in her native Scotland but could truly be called The First Lady of Lichfield. Lichfeld Clock Tower, relocated in 1928 to The Friary

Sources: British Newspaper Archive; Staffordshire’s War:Voices of the First World War by Janet Hunt *The photograph of Victoria Hospital in the 1930s is one of the many photographs with the collection compiled by the late Dave Gallagher of the ‘You’re Probably From Lichfield If…’ Facebook group. Dave provided the photographs and history for the magazine’s very popular Photographs From the Past column. Dave was a true friend of Citylife in Lichfield and is dearly missed by both us and by our readers.

Winner of City Jewellers’ Bauble Competition

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esley Archer of Lichfield was delighted at being informed she was the lucky winner of our December competition. The prize was a Les Georgettes bracelet, kindly provided by City Jewellers of Lichfield, and entrants were asked to guess the number of baubles in the store’s Bore Street shop window. The correct answer was 912 and Mrs Archer was the closest out of hundreds of entries with her guess of 935. Pictured is Lesley receiving her prize from City Jewellers manager, Adam Hogg.

Local Business Winners Announced

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hebestof Lichfield has announced the winner of the Lichfield Business of the Year 2020 Awards. Specialist Retailer, The Cheese, Gin & Ale Barn received 739 reviews during the campaign, winning the coveted accolade of Business of the Year in Lichfield 2020. In second place, with 470 reviews, was Children’s Activities & Parties company The Cheese, Gin & Ale Barn aBagOFun and in third position with 383 reviews, Coffee Shops, Cafes & Tea Rooms, The Strawberry Cabin. The Business of the Year Awards are organised by thebestof, a marketing organisation committed to raising the profile of local, independent businesses serving Lichfield and the surrounding areas. During the campaign, local people were encouraged to show their support for their favourite local business by leaving a review of the service they received from the business. The Awards operate at a local level to recognise and award the Business of the Year in their Town, and at a national level to recognise the overall UK Business of the Year, the Top 100 Businesses in the UK and the Business of the Year in each Business Category. At a national level, The Cheese, Gin & Ale Barn; aBagOfun and The Strawberry Cabin all finished in the top five in the UK and won the Award in their category.

Springtime at Lichfield Cathedral

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ichfield Cathedral invites the local community to be part of their Spring 2020 programme. The season is a real highlight in the Christian Year, seeing Lent, Holy Week & Easter for the central thread of the activities. Whether you are from a Christian background or not, Lichfield Cathedral has something to offer everyone: moving services, messy church, engaging lectures, stunning exhibitions, and a celebratory VE Day street party. For families the Cathedral offers regular Children’s Church every Sunday at 10:30 during term time, monthly Messy Church sessions on Saturdays and engaging children’s discovery trails. Let’s not forget the Palm Sunday Procession: a chance to join crowds as they walk from Speakers’ Corner up to the Cathedral following a real live donkey to remember Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, with palm crosses and singing. During Lent and Holy Week, Lichfield Cathedral will be hosting an art exhibition of the Stations of the Cross by Rob Floyd, and then Stations of the Resurrection by Rob Floyd from Easter Sunday until 31 May. Every Wednesday night during Lent the Cathedral will be hosting lectures by experts in their fields exploring ‘Challenges to Modern Life: Opportunities or Threats?’ The lectures explore themes such as Inequality, Peace and Climate Change. In May the country will celebrate 75 years since VE Day and Lichfield Cathedral will be hosting a special street party to mark this special occasion. Everyone is invited to attend. Lichfield Cathedral’s theme for 2020 is ‘Fully Alive’, exploring human creativity, responsibility and dignity. Throughout the year events, services, exhibitions and lectures will focus on this theme, everyone is invited to join the Cathedral on this journey of exploration.

The Time is Right for Classic Watches .............................................. By Adrian Rathbone

classic watch discovered at a valuation day has recently sold for £2,100 at auction. The watch in question is a Jaeger-LeCoultre 'Reverso' wristwatch dating from the 1930s. The luxury Swiss firm was founded in 1833 by Antoine LeCoultre in Le Sentier and holds hundreds of patents, not to mention some of world's smallest and most complicated movements such as the Atmos. The Reverso model was introduced in 1931 and the name is inspired by the Latin 'I turn around'. The idea is that the face is reversible which enables it to survive the rigours of the Polo match. The design is sophisticated Art Deco and has become a design icon and is still made to this day. The watch was brought into one of the monthly free valuation days by the owner who had no idea about its age or value. Adrian Rathbone, Head of Watches at Hansons Auctioneers, oversaw the sale and comments on the find. “The market for vintage to modern classic and luxury watches is red hot at the moment. Buyers all over the world are keen to acquire these miniature works of art and are prepared to pay astronomical sums for rare and desirable models. Makes such as Rolex, Tudor, Omega, Cartier, Blancpain, Longines, Patek Philippe, IWC and of course Jager LeCouttre are some of the top makers in high demand. Military watches too are

keenly sought after and can be identified by the broad arrow mark. I particularly admire the Reverso for its ingenious Kate Bliss mechanism and timeless handsome Image by Hansons. looks.” The watch whipped up an intense bidding battle when it was offered in Hansons’ specialist Fine Watches auction with it eventually selling to a collector bidding on the phone for £2,100. The owner, who nearly gave it to charity, needless to say was absolutely delighted. With a marked increase in values for all manner of luxury watches it is especially to be aware of the current market values. Find out the value of your watches, jewellery and silver at one of Hansons’ free monthly valuation events at Bishton Hall hosted by TV's Kate Bliss and Adrian Rathbone. The next event is Thursday 19th March from 10am to 3pm at Bishton Hall, Wolseley Bridge, ST17 OXN. For further information, please phone 01889 358050 or email enquiries@hansonsbishton.co.uk.

Citylife Teams Up with Freedom Leisure ............................................

Members of the Citylife team with Matt Timlin, leisure centre manager

itylife is delighted to have been named Business of the Month by Freedom Leisure at Friary Grange Leisure Centre.

A new initiative for the Lichfield company, the campaign is already up and running across several other Freedom Leisure sites and aims to promote a new, local business every month, offering employees special rates on membership deals, guest passes to sample the leisure facilities and promotional material inside the centre itself.

Working in partnership with Lichfield Council, Freedom Leisure at Friary Grange has a range of facilities to suit all ages. There is a well-equipped gym featuring the latest cardiovascular machines and weights; a range of classes from fast-paced and high impact, to more relaxing yoga-based activities; and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a 25-metre pool for members to enjoy everything from a gentle swim, to a more intense training session. Freedom Leisure has recently introduced several new classes which are unique to the centre, including a Box Fit class to really get the blood pumping; a rowing class in a dedicated fitness studio on one of eight rowing machines; and a Fitball class, which provides strength training to help develop lean muscle mass. If you are interested in becoming a member of Freedom Leisure at the Friary Grange Centre, or you are a local business interested in becoming Business of the Month, you can find out more information by calling 01543 228229. You can also visit the website at www.freedom-leisure.co.uk.

EXCLUSIVE CITYLIFE OFFER â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NO JOINING FEE!

Freedom Leisure at The Friary Grange is waiving the usual joining fee for all Citylife in Lichfield readers when they sign up to membership at the leisure centre. Simply quote FREEDOM20 when applying for membership to get this incredible offer!

Five Minutes With… Lichfield’s Town Crier ................................

his month, we had a coffee and a chat with one of Lichfield’s most recognised local figures, the officially appointed Town Crier, Sword Bearer & Master of Ceremonies, Ken Knowles. Q: How long have you been Town Crier? A: I’ve been doing it for 11 years now, taking over from my predecessor, Lonza Atkin, in 2009. Q: How did you get the job? A: I already knew the former town crier as I had briefly worked with him. On his retirement, I saw an advert placed by the council and applied. I had to have a formal interview, which included a proclamation (or shout), which took place in the Council car park! Q: What does the role entail? A: I have to make myself available for 13 days of the year for official duties. These are events and festivities such as Shrovetide, St George’s Day, Lichfield Bower and the Sheriff ’s Ride.

Q: I understand you have competed in Town Crier competitions all over the world? A: That’s right! I’ve participated in many events in Bermuda, New Zealand, Australia and Canada. I was successful two years ago when I was titled British Champion by the Loyal Company of Town Criers. Q: Can you remember what your first ever official proclamation was as Town Crier? A: Yes! It was the official opening of Speaker’s Corner. Q: Do you know how loud your voice actually is? A: It was recorded as 110 decibels at a competition in Australia – which they told me was the second loudest in the world at that event! Apparently, the loudest cry on record is 122 decibels. Q: What skills do you think make a good Town Crier? A: I feel that my former career as a teacher, as well as my participation in amateur dramatics, have helped me to understand how and when to breathe. Oh, that and the fact that my great great grandfather was a rag and bone man!

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

A Taste of Italy!

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stablished in 1987, independent restaurant Pizza by Goli has been delighting the people of Lichfield with its authentic Italian cuisine for more than 30 years. We popped in to sample some firm favourites from the extensive menu.

A friendly ambience greeted us as we stepped into the bright and airy restaurant, where we were warmly welcomed and shown to our cosy table for two. Despite what the name suggests, Pizza by Goli serves so much more than simply pizza. In fact, the menu is full of traditional Italian dishes and wines to complement them, and we had trouble choosing what to have due to the amount of mouth-watering choices we were faced with. We finally selected and began our Italian feast with starters of Funghi di Carne which consisted of woodland mushrooms and bacon baked with garlic butter and served on a bed of mixed leaves; and the more adventurous Gamberoni Salvatore comprising tiger prawns with chilli, garlic, tomato and white wine. Both utterly delicious and completely moreish, we could not wait until our next course arrived, and we were not disappointed! A lighter main of Insalate Guiliana came with sautéed strips of chicken breast, served with artichokes and sundried tomatoes on mixed leaves, and was accompanied by a warm Italian dressing. The chicken was tender and juicy, with the crisp fresh leaves being the perfect accompaniment. We’d also chosen a popular dish, the aptly named Pizza by Goli Special, which was a pizza base loaded with tomato, mozzarella, mushrooms, peppers, onions, ham, pepperoni, salami and garlic sausage – a true meat lover’s dream! To round off what had been a perfect evening, and both being avid coffee drinkers, we enjoyed the classic Italian dessert of Tiramisu which was creamy and rich, along with Gelato Afogato, this being vanilla ice cream literally ‘drowned in espresso’! A taste of Italian heaven!

Advertising Feature

Your Garden in March By Byron Lewis

March heralds the start of the gardening year - despite the dreadful weather we've had so far... and as the weather (slowly) improves, there are plenty of jobs to keep you busy in the garden.

Firstly, it’s time to look at your lawn and repair any thinning or bare patches. This can be done quickly by sowing some fresh seed over the patches (called overseeding). Before you apply the seed, rake out any moss and sprinkle a little fresh compost over the area. Water and allow to drain, then sow the seed on the patchy areas.You may want to protect the area from the birds with some string or polythene to give the seeds a helping hand. If your soil is still sodden after winter, this can be done later in the month. Many seeds can be sown in March including flowers and veg too. Why not try growing your own tomatoes this year? There are plenty of varieties available from seed – whether you prefer sweet flavoured cherry tomatoes, through to Italian and traditional types – most tomatoes are easy to grow. Sow in a seed tray and germinate on a warm windowsill. Keep them in a heated greenhouse or conservatory. Depending on variety, some can be grown outdoors in the summer but do check the seed packet carefully before you buy – alternatively, readygrown plants are available later this month. Summer bulbs are now ready to plant. Garden centres will have all the popular types from scented lilies to dahlias, as well as tuberous begonia and gladioli. Plant them in March and April for summer colour. Many will flower for years to come with minimal effort - as the bulbs increase in size over time, so the display increases too. As with all bulbs, adding some bonemeal, both when planting and after flowering, will feed the bulb and help to improve the show. Finally don't forget Mother's Day is on Sunday 22nd March - why not treat mum to a houseplant such as hydrangeas, azaleas and jasmine, or what about a lovely planted arrangement with lots of spring colour? They last much longer than cut flowers. Otherwise, garden centre gift vouchers are a great alternative and mean that Mum can buy whatever she wants for the garden.

Byron Lewis runs Lichfield Garden Centre at Curborough Countryside Centre, Lichfield. Telephone 01543 254306, visit www.lichfieldgardencentre.co.uk or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. 24

The Month in Pictures

February

e take a look at the events and activities over the last month, bringing you a roundup of the city in pictures...

Lichfield Gamers at the Hub at St Mary's

Karen Foster with Nathaniel Hall at his one man show, Garrick Studio

Board Games at the Lichfield Gamers, Hub at St Mary's

Christmas Tree Festival winners - Pool House Veterinary Group

Staffordshire Poet Laureate, Mel Wardle Woodend, poetry workshop at the Hub at St Mary's

Jigsaw Sale Festival at Erasmus Darwin House

Images by Jono Oates www.jonotourism.co.uk

Friends 2 Friends Volunteers with Lottery Donation

Lichfield Poetry group at Lichfield Library, St Mary's

Lichfield Detective Day at Quonians Lane

The Pathway Project team at pop-up shop, Three Spires Shopping Centre

Peaky Blinders at the Lichfield Detective Day

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.

Hidden Spaces

Market Street's Cellars By Jono Oates ..................

fter discovering the hidden cellars of ES Jewellery on Tamworth Street in February’s edition, this month we go underground at 10 Market Street, currently Alpha Sports, and discovers its previous occupants, from a late 19th century butchers to a 21st century sports shop.

The cellars at 10 Market Street have a wonderful vaulted ceiling, built with amazing craftmanship and as I walked round the open floor space the signs of its former use were very easy to spot. But who else worked in this large and impressive building on Lichfield’s bustling Market Street? Number 10 is at the top end of the street, close to the historic Angel Inn, and one of the earliest recorded owners of the shop was an ex-landlady of the inn, Catherine Wager. In the 1860s Catherine was running a greengrocer’s business but when she passed away in 1873 it then became home to a well-known Lichfield family of butchers,

the Quantrills. Henry Quantrill was a pork butcher and, in the 1880s was also the landlord of the Old Crown Inn on Bore Street. Quantrill later moved to 2 Tamworth Street, at the entrance to Bakers Lane and alongside the Old Crown, where it operated until 1963 and the building was demolished to make way for the Bakers Lane redevelopment. After Quantrills, the shop was owned by John Humphries, a corn dealer and baker and, from 1902, his son Francis Humphries who, like Quantrill, was a pork butcher. In 1899 John Humphries attended the Bakers’ and Confectioners’ competition in London where he came away with first prize for his perfect ‘Bath Bun’. In August 1906 Francis was in trouble with the police as he was arrested on Bird Street for being drunk and disorderly and fined five shillings and six old pence. In the same year the shop became the Star Supply Stores, a grocers, and in 1921 they promised to give the ‘Highest Quality at the Lowest Possible Prices’. A pound weight of good tea was one shilling and eight pence, a pound of draft bacon was one shilling and sixpence, and one and a half pounds of overweight margarine was one shilling – just 5 pence in today’s money! In 1930 the shop changed from selling meat, bread and groceries to a totally different kind of product – footwear. The Public Benefit Foot Company was a national brand with shops all across the country, operating under this name in the north of the country and as Lennards in the south. When the shop opened in October 1930 it offered real crocodile skin fashion shoes for the ladies at 21 shillings, and for the men a high-grade grain leather pair of city-style shoes. Children were also looked after and if their parents spent more than four shillings and 11 pence on a pair, the lucky child would receive a free box of Rowntrees’ chocolates! The shoe theme continued with the Manfield shoe store opening in 1973 which was then replaced with Freeman, Hardy and Willis when it took over the Manfield chain in 1980. Freeman, Hardy and Willis was a long-established company, running from 1875 until it went out of business in 1996. The shop briefly became The Discount Store in 1983, a clothes store called Sheena in 1986, and in 1995 it returned to the footwear theme when it became Alpha

Sports, specialising in sports footwear and running shoes, as it still is today. In the cellars of the shop, signs of its former trade as a pork butcher can still be seen. Meat hooks are sunk into the wooden beams and there is a large marble sink where, in the days before refrigeration, the pigs would be covered in coarse salt to preserve the meat. A small flight of steps, now blocked off, is where the treated meat would be taken up to the shop to be sold. Over the years, number 10 Market Street has been home to several butchers and, in more recent times, a succession of footwear companies, a theme which is often repeated in other shops on Lichfield’s streets, where it was often easier to continue a shop’s trade and layout than change to something new. My thanks to Dave and the team at Alpha Sports for allowing me access to the cellars. Please note that the cellars are not open for public access. Sources: The British Newspaper Archive; Trades of a City by JP Gallagher; www.publicbenefitbootcompany.co.uk

From £55

£256

£2,250

18ct white gold, diamond and blue zircon pendant. Available from Allen Brown Jewellery located at Heart of the Country Shopping Village, Swinfen, Lichfield www.allenbrownjewellery.co.uk

Silver, 18ct gold and diamond pendant. Available from Allen Brown Jewellery located at Heart of the Country Shopping Village, Swinfen, Lichfield www.allenbrownjewellery.co.uk

Large blankets made to order. Plus large knitting needles (24mm) priced at £20 a pair. Available from Jennie B's Wool Shop, 39 Market Street, Lichfield www.jenniebhandmade.co.uk

Perfect Gifts for Mum

£20

Treat the lady in your life to something special this Mother’s Day. £65

Pandora ‘Love you Mum’ charm. Made from polished sterling silver, composed of a heart shape with infinity wrapping with cut-out heart details. Available from ES Jewellery, 1 Tamworth Street, Lichfield – www.esjewellery.co.uk

£40

Gift Vouchers for St.Tropez Spray Tan, Skin Rejuvenation and a variety of other treatments. Available from Erase UK, 1 Tudor Row, Lichfield www.erase-uk.co.uk

£50 Earrings by Victoria Cruz, in silver with rose gold or gold vermeil using Swarovski Elements. Available from City Jewellers of Lichfield, Bore Street, Lichfield – www.cityjewellers.co.uk

£19.95

Beautiful pendant by Victoria Cruz, available in silver with rose gold or gold vermeil using Swarovski Elements. Available from City Jewellers of Lichfield, Bore Street, Lichfield – www.cityjewellers.co.uk

Mother’s Day bouquet of flowers. Available from Secret Garden, 6 Tudor Row, Lichfield WS13 6HH www.secretgardenlichfield.co.uk

£20

£7.99 Victoria Cruz ring in silver with Rose gold or gold Vermeil using Swarovski Elements. Available from City Jewellers of Lichfield, Bore Street, Lichfield – www.cityjewellers.co.uk

Sterling silver ‘Tree of Life’ pendant and chain. Available from MW Jewellery and Repairs, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley.

Nobile handmade glass hearts. Available from Gifts from the H rt, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley.

A variety of celebrity-inspired Handbags. Available at Lachmere Ladies Fashions, 12 Brewery Street, Rugeley.

£17

A wide selection of Mother's Day cards. Available from Keeren’s Kardz, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley.

Knitting project storage bag. Available from the Little Wool Shop, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley.

£60

£20

Pandora Family Tree bracelet. Featuring an openwork clasp design and sparkling cubic zirconia. Available from ES Jewellery, 1 Tamworth Street, Lichfield – www.esjewellery.co.uk

Original watercolour by Mollie Edensor (£30 framed). Available from Lachmere Ladies Fashions, 12 Brewery Street, Rugeley.

From 99p

From £5

Personalised giftware, including mugs, canvasses and mouse mats. Available from Not Just Mugs, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley.

Treat Mum this Mother's Day to a beautiful Afternoon Tea at The Tudor of Lichfield, Bore Street, Lichfield.

£135 £12

One-off, original vintage 1980’s frames. Different styles available at Lichfield Factory Specs, 49a Tamworth Street, Lichfield.

Treat your Mum to an Afternoon Tea gift £22 voucher from The George. Includes a pot of tea or coffee, an assortment of finger sandwiches, fruit scones with cream and strawberry jam and a selection of afternoon tea cakes. Available from The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield Cherish picture frame in sterling silver. www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk Available from Arthur Price, Britannia Enterprise Park, Lichfield – www.arthurprice.co.uk Treat Mom to some fine luxury chocolates, novelty chocolates, luxury biscuit tins or speciality jams and teas. Available from The Tudor of Lichfield, Bore Street, Lichfield.

An 8-inch silver-plated rose bowl. Available from Arthur Price, Britannia Enterprise Park, Lichfield – www.arthurprice.co.uk

Young Chang upright piano in a beautiful high gloss cabinet. With free delivery, tuning and a three year guarantee. Available from Lichfield Piano Centre, Curborough Craft Centre, Watery Lane, Lichfield – www.lichfieldpianocentre.co.uk

Gift cards to suit all budgets. Available from Specsavers Lichfield, 43 Market Street, Lichfield.

Transition Lichfield

Transition Lichfield is a community group which aims to help people transition to a more ethical, eco-friendly lifestyle. An umbrella group, and network facilitator of several smaller groups with a similar ethos, Transition Lichfield offers free community workshops, talks and film showings. Founded in 2017, the group is part of the wider Transition Network with an approach rooted in values and principles, ultimately striving for a more sustainable future. Transition Lichfield meets on the first Wednesday of every second month. The next meeting will be held at 8pm on 4th March at the Ultimate Vegan CafĂŠ (UVC) in City Parade, Lichfield and will be attended by local councillor, Ashley Yeates.

For further information, visit www.transitionlichfield.org.uk.

Win a Mother’s Day Bouquet

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ecret Garden in Tudor Row aims to visualise and create stylish, on-trend, exquisite floral designs for any occasion. Offering a multitude of floristy services, including retail and residential, through to full scale wedding and event planning, Secret Garden prides itself on its reputation for unrivalled quality and innovative design using the most beautiful blooms and the freshest flowers. The fully-qualified and friendly team will listen to your requirements, then using their knowledge of seasonal flowers, availability, colour combinations and trends will create a tailormade design just for you. Say it with flowers this Mother’s Day – visit the shop in Tudor Row, find it online at www.secretgardenlichfield.co.uk or call on 01543 418710.

We’ve teamed up with Secret Garden to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a stunning bouquet to present to Mum this Mother’s Day! All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is unscramble the letters below to form the name of a popular flower.

neuhrcmmysaht -------------

To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to Bouquet 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 19th March 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 40.

UVC Birthday Offer!

The Ultimate Vegan Café is celebrating its first birthday on 13th March and, as a thank you to customers and supporters, owners Ian and Elisabeth will be giving 20% off main meals between 10am and 2pm! Ian commented: “A lot of people told us that we where mad to open a vegan cafe and that it wouldn't work, but we never had a doubt in our minds! We enjoy seeing our now, regular customers and are so happy when new people visit us for the first time. But above all we love the dogs that are brought into the café - it really means a lot to us!” Celebrate with UVC on 13th March!

The Tradition of Mothering Sunday By Charlotte Benton

Whilst we dearly cherish them all year round, Mother’s Day is often regarded as the one day of the year in which matriarchal roles are reversed - where Mum’s are served breakfast in bed and are treated to a day off from their usual motherhood duties. This year, Mother’s Day will be celebrated on Sunday 22nd March. The significance of Mother’s Day serves as a special day to honour mothers and motherhood, acknowledging their hard work that encompasses every day of the year. I bet you are wondering where this celebration originated from? Celebrations of motherhood can be traced all the way back to the Ancient Greeks and Romans, who held festivals in honour of the mother goddesses, Rhea and Cybele. However, the early Christian festival, known as Mothering Sunday, is the clearest modern precedent of what we celebrate today as Mother’s Day and can be traced back to the 17th century. The celebration of Mothering Sunday traditionally fell on the fourth Sunday in Lent and was originally seen as a time when the faithful would visit their

The Hope Adventure

In August this year a UK team of 10 adults, mostly from Wade Street Church Lichfield, will be taking 30 Romanian children from orphanages and poor communities on a holiday camp in the hills near Raznov in Romania. These children will have never experienced anything like this before! They

‘mother church’, this being the main church in their local area, for a special service. Gradually the tradition of Mothering Sunday has shifted towards a more secular holiday in which children present their parent with gifts that illustrate a token of their appreciation, such as chocolates and flowers. Families also often celebrate by giving mothers a day off from the everyday activities that the traditional notion of motherhood entails! Versions of Mother’s Day are celebrated worldwide, with traditions varying between countries. In Thailand, Mother’s Day is always celebrated in August on the birthday of the country’s current queen, Sirikit; in Ethiopia, Mother’s Day traditions involve families gathering together in autumn to sing songs and eat a large feast as part of a multi-day celebration; whilst in the United States homage is paid to mothers in May. Remember to treat your Mum this Mother’s Day to a gift that will be sure to make her smile! Take a look at our gift guide on page 30 for great present ideas.

will get the chance to mountain climb, use the zipwire, explore the local forest, play outdoor games and enjoy many activities that build confidence, trust and relationships. The cost for each child is £200 and will include all travel costs, food, accommodation, resources and activities. The aim is to raise funds throughout the year and the first fundraising event will be a performance by the Good Company Mixed Choir at Wade Street Church, Frog Lane on 4th April at 7:30pm. Tickets are priced at £10.

Casa Elim, near Raznov, is a purpose built children’s holiday camp, providing lodging, food and activities

Treat your Mother this Mother's Day Retailers of Fine Luxury Chocolates. Come and see our exciting range of Novelty Chocolates, Luxury Biscuit Tins and Speciality Jams and Teas

Tastes of the Season Mother’s Day Treat! By Simon Smith

As it’s Mother’s Day on 22nd March I thought I’d take you through an easy recipe that you can prepare for Mum – it’s also a dish that I teach my pupils how to prepare and cook in my cookery workshops.

Chicken Mousseline

2 x chicken breasts 6ozs double cream 2 x egg whites 1tsp dried tarragon 6 x chestnut mushrooms

Method

Wash and quarter the mushrooms, pop into a pan with 3ozs of the cream and half the tarragon simmer for 30 seconds. Allow to cool. Put the chicken breasts, egg whites and rest of the cream into a food processor, season with salt and pepper and whizz together until you have a smooth paste. Pipe into and oiled ramekin dish and form a well in the centre. Put the mushrooms into the hole and top with a bit more mousse to seal. Cook in a pan with water half way up the ramekin and a lid (bain marie style). This should take about five minutes. Serve on a watercress salad. In the picture it is topped with chicken crackling.

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 *Please take extra care when preparing and handling hot foodstuffs. Go to www.food.gov.uk for further details.

My Cookery Workshops

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The benefit is that you won’t be in a cookery school with a large group of strangers but have my undivided attention, either alone or with up to two friends. There will be tastings throughout the session and quite a I include knife skills, butchery, lot of food to take home. bread-making, sauces, desserts and As an alternative I do a cookery fish cookery in each course. I can also cover anything you would like to demonstration followed by dinner learn about, either for dinner parties for parties of eight people. Both of For more information contact Simon on or family cookery, to make life easier these make ideal presents. 07947 646091 or visit www.simonsmithand more adventurous. chef.com. or those of you wanting to increase your repertoire and brush up on your culinary skills I hold bespoke cookery skills days.

Search for School to Star in Music Video

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agic Mountain Creative, a small but mighty team of creatives and educators who like to try and do things a little differently, by capturing the imagination of the young and the old and remain as creative, fun and forward thinking as possible. It does this through creative services, art based workshops within schools (music, dance, drama) and a Youtube channel which provides a wealth of videos and resources on a range of educational topics. The environment is a very important focus for everyone at the moment and the company is looking to make a 'Guide to Saving the Planet' song and music video. Magic Mountain Creative is searching for a Staffordshire-based school to help record and perform the song and video and star alongside one of the Magic Mountain characters, Roger Wild. This will involve a visit from the creative team to capture all of the footage and audio, and best of all, the competition is completely free to enter via the website! Schools wishing to take part need to provide a short description of what they currently do to help the environment and why they think they should win. Magic Mountain is donating all profits raised from the sale of the song back to the school to donate to an environmental charity of their choosing. The closing date for the competition is 30th March 2020 and entries can be submitted at www.magicmountaincreative.com/competition.

Lichfield Arts in March

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Nick Dewhurst Band

op local jazz band the Nick Dewhurst Band will join forces with The Queen Mary’s Big Band to put on a great evening of live jazz, featuring a selection of wellknown tunes and some originals too. As well as supporting the pro musicians, it’s vital we support young jazzers, so please come and enjoy what will be a great gig! A Lichfield Arts Spokesman said: “The Nick Dewhurst are always a quality act, playing exciting, ground breaking music with joy, verve and skill. If you add in the students at Queen Mary’s school, you have a very talented, very big band. They will be playing a mixture of originals and jazz standards, so if you would like to hear these talented players, buy your tickets soon.”

The concert starts at 8pm on Wednesday 18th March at the Cathedral Hotel, Beacon Street with doors opening at 7.30pm. Tickets are £12, and £10.00 for Friends of Lichfield Jazz. For further information, and to book tickets, visit www.lichfieldarts.org.uk or phone (01543) 262223. Keep up to date with all of Lichfield Arts’ by following on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Soundcloud.

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

Lichfield Developer Helps Raise Money for Charity

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cCarthy and Stone’s team in Lichfield has helped to raise an incredible £200,000 through its year-long fundraising partnership with national reading charity Coram Beanstalk, achieving twice the target it set itself for the year. In 2019, McCarthy and Stone announced it had chosen Coram Beanstalk as its charity partner to help improve the outcomes of children who struggle with reading, while promoting the wellbeing benefits of intergenerational volunteering among its nationwide communities. (l-r) John Tonkiss, Chief Executive Originally setting itself a target of £100,000, all Officer at McCarthy & Stone and Ginny those at the Scott Place Retirement Living PLUS Lunn, Managing Director of Coram development in Lichfield have helped double the Beanstalk amount it expected to raise following a great response from its employees, residents and partners. Coram Beanstalk recruits, trains and supports volunteers to provide one-to-one support to children aged three – 13 years old who have fallen behind with their reading levels and confidence. One in four children across the UK leave primary school without the skills to read, while 5.1 million adults are functionally illiterate.The support Coram Beanstalk volunteers provide significantly improves the outcomes for children across the UK by transforming reading abilities, enjoyment and confidence. For more information about McCarthy and Stone visit www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/retirement-properties-for-sale/scott-place-lichfield/. To find out more about the partnership and how residents and supporters got involved please go to www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk/mccarthystone.

February's Competition Winner

Congratulations to Mr R Ashley who won Afternoon Tea for Two at The Strawberry Cabin - congratulations!

Work to Bus Station Underway

Work kicked off in January to improve a site off Birmingham Road in Lichfield. It includes demolishing the former police station and bus station buildings, creating extra coach parking, refreshing the bus station, installing temporary toilets, landscaping the area and moving the bus station long-stay car park. So far the contractor, The Coleman Group, has started preparing the former police station for demolition this month. To find out more about the short-term improvement project and to keep up to date on the phases of the work, please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/brsimprovements. 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

Local Folk Group Needs New Faces

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n 2009, Lichfield Arts commissioned a workshop to introduce the folk genre to the young people in the local area which resulted in the first ever performance of Wildfire Folk. Ten years on, they have released four EP CDs and are playing to audiences around the country at festivals, church services and fundraising events. With regular performances in and around Lichfield, they now have quite a following. The group, due to its youthful nature, has regenerated itself on many occasions as band members leave for university and new members join, but through all the changes, the same fun vibrant and funky style has always remained at the heart of this unique group. It’s folk music, but not as you know it and recent compilations created by the group have included samples from Lady Gaga, Dr Who and even James Bond! Band members regularly receive top class tuition at weekly rehearsals and also get the chance to perform and grow in confidence as part of a fantastic music group. Wildfire Folk is on the look-out for new band members aged between 10-25, so if you can play any instrument from grade 2 or equivalent standard (no certificates needed), then this band could be for you. Rehearsals are every Thursday evening in school term time, from 6pm till 8pm, at Wade Street Church Hall, Frog lane, Lichfield. You can find more information at www.wildfirefolk.co.uk or follow on Facebook.

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 non-transferable. 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.

Advertising Feature

Spring is in the Air…

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Just because it’s still chilly outside that doesn’t mean it has to be wintery on the inside too! In fact, spring technically begins on 20th March – what better excuse do you need to throw the windows wide open and let the air flow through; give your house a spring clean from top to bottom; and treat yourself to a new interior trend? Take a look at the hottest local retailers and see what they’ve got to offer in our Spring Interior Guide! Feel the Heat This beautiful Dru Global 70XT BF gas fire is priced from £2,100 (plus VAT). Fire surround not included. Available from The Fire Place, 5 Stafford Road, Lichfield – www.thefireplacelichfield.co.uk Colour of the Month As the only stockist of Farrow & Ball paint in Lichfield, you’re sure to find something amongst the extensive range of colours and finishes available. Shown here is the ‘colour of the month’- De Nimes No299. Available from Decor Supplies, Unit 23 Britannia Way, Lichfield – www.decorsupplies.co.uk

Interiors

Win a Granite Chopping Board in the Colour of Your Choice!

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a bespoke Granite chopping board (in the colour of your choice) to give away! To be in with a chance of Using the latest technology, making it unrivalled in the local winning this magnificent area, the firm operates from its head office in Penkridge and prize, simply answer the works with a wide range of luxury kitchen manufacturers within following question correctly:

Just Granite Ltd, established in 2002, is a family-run business with a combined experience of more than 60 years in the natural stone industry, and it specialises in providing granite, quartz and solid surface worktops to both the commercial and domestic market.

a 60-mile radius.

Just Granite takes great pride in offering its customers full support, from the initial quotation right through to installation, with all products being covered under a guarantee and offering additional maintenance packages where suitable. With the largest variety of natural stones in the Midlands, the solid slabs are kept on-site and are available for viewing from 9am-5pm on Monday to Friday, and 9am-12.30pm on Saturday. Located at The Stone Works, Pillaton Hall Farm, Penkridge, ST19 5RZ.

Where is the Just Granite head office based? a) Rugeley b) Penkridge c) Cannock

To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to Just Granite 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 23rd March 2020. One entry per household. Multiple entries will be disqualified. No cash equivalent. Please note you must be 18 or over to enter. All entrantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; information is processed in line with GDPR Data Protection Regulations and our Privacy Policy (available at citylifeinlichfieldltd.co.uk). Full t&cs on page 40.

Interiors

The Pembroke This beautiful multifuel and gas stove is just one of many on display at Rugeley Fireplaces, 41 Albion Street, Rugeley – www.rugeleyfireplaces.net

Go Roman! Growing in popularity, Roman blinds can enhance your interior design with elegant, sophisticatedlooking window treatments. Available from Haywoods Blinds, 3 Cannock Road, Burntwood – www.haywoodsblinds.co.uk

Innovative Blinds Made up of a combination of sheer and opaque textured fabric, Allusion® blinds offer a unique shading solution for the home, providing subtle light diffusion with a view or privacy and security when closed. Prices start from £136. Available from Haywoods Blinds, 3 Cannock Road, Burntwood – www.haywoodsblinds.co.uk Fine and Dandy! These Dandy washable mats, from the Warren range, are perfect to line your hallway. Prices start from £23. Available from Tatlow Carpets, Unit 4 Europa Way, Britannia Enterprise Park, Lichfield – www.tatlowcarpets.co.uk

Make a Statement The Bassington off-white enamel stove, pictured here with limestone surround and tapestry hearth, is a fantastic addition to any traditional property looking for a modern twist with its interior design. This is just one of the new displays on show at The Fire Place Lichfield, 5 Stafford Road, Lichfield www.thefireplacelichfield.co.uk

Interiors

Pine Pedestal Table & Seagrass Dining Chairs Make a statement in the dining room or kitchen with this gorgeous ensemble. Table price: £379. Dining Chair price: £129.99 each. Available from Paul Martyn Furniture, Heart of the Country Village, Swinfen, Lichfield – www.paulmartynfurniture.co.uk

Interiors Wet Room Shower The showroom collection features wet room panel options, which can be fitted to low level shower trays or straight to the floor to create a true wet room. Price: £275.00. Available from Tippers, Power Station Road, Rugeley – www.tippers.com New for 2020 Grand Botanicals is a new range for 2020 and features a fresh, spring design which is perfect for Roman blinds or curtains. Fabric priced at £30 per metre. Available from Interior Choice, Lichfield – www.interiorchoice.net

The Kirk Armchair Available in a choice of fabrics and colours. Price: £599. Available from Paul Martyn Furniture, Heart of the Country Village, Swinfen, Lichfield – www.paulmartynfurniture.co.uk

Splash of Colour This Helix design will bring colour to any window. Prices start from £120 for complete Roman blinds. Excluding fitting. Available from Interior Choice, Lichfield – www.interiorchoice.net

Instinct Espanda Stylish and versatile, this 500mm Freestanding Vanity Unit is also available in a wall-mounted option. Price: £523.23. Available from Tippers, Power Station Road, Rugeley – www.tippers.com

Eastern Promise The Bali Collection offers a taste of the Far East with prices starting from £25 per metre. Available from Interior Choice, Lichfield – www.interiorchoice.net

Interiors

Mosaic Marvel This classic stone mosaic tiling (in the delectable shade of Midnight) is very on-trend for your bathroom or wet room. Available from Just Bathrooms & Panels, Phoenix House, Market Street, Rugeley â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.justpanels.co.uk.

Less Mess ProPlas Tile provides a stylish and cost effective alternative to tiling, minus the cost, fussy fitting, mess and maintenance! Smoked Grey Proplas is available from Just Bathrooms & Panels, Phoenix House, Market Street, Rugeley â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.justpanels.co.uk.

Interiors

20% Off! There’s currently 20% off Emma Shipley Wallpaper and Fabric both in-store and online. Pictured is the Kruger wallpaper in navy, with matching bed sets too! Available from Decor Supplies, Unit 23 Britannia Way, Lichfield – www.decorsupplies.co.uk Natural Material Ulster’s ‘Open Spaces’ range of carpet is made from 100% New Zealand wool and comes in multiwidth and a variety of different colours. Priced from £39.95 per sq/m. Available from Tatlow Carpets, Unit 4 Europa Way, Britannia Enterprise Park, Lichfield – www.tatlowcarpets.co.uk

Promote your event in our What’s On guide and reach over 18,000 homes and businesses for only £15 for businesses and £5 for charities. Entries must be 50 words maximum. To book contact Rebecca Hill 07970 513144 rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com (businesses who are already advertising in the relevant issue may place additional what’s on listings free-of-charge). Please clearly mark your email ‘What’s On Lichfield'. Sunday 1st March Wedding Fair Come along and meet a wide range of expert local suppliers who will inspire you with some lovely ideas to make your wedding day dreams come true. Venue: The George Hotel Time: 11am-3pm Free Entry Tuesday 10th March John Louis Petit by Philip Modiano Following up the article on the 19th century Lichfield artist John Louis Petit in December’s issue, Philip Modiano will give a talk which will cover what is being done to recover Petit’s reputation, and then focus on Petit's trips to France, the art he produced there and the inspiration he found for his books. Venue: St Michael’s Church Time: 2.30pm

Wednesday 11th March Lichfield U3A The History of Alrewas by speaker, Lynne Ingram. Venue: Wade Street Church (change of venue – access from Frog Lane). Time: 2pm

Saturday 14th March Dr D’s Science Club Celebrating National Science Week with “Meet the Scientists” and try some experiments. For children aged 7-11years. Venue: Erasmus Darwin House Time: 11am - 4pm Free entry

Sunday 15th March Afternoon Tea with Bert & Mary Join Mary Poppins and Bert for an Afternoon Tea that is practically perfect in every way!

Venue: The George Hotel Adults: £22 | Children: £15

Tuesday 17th March Lichfield Beacon Probus Club The Humanimal Trust - a talk by the charity which seeks to encourage doctors and researchers to share medical progress between humans and animals. Venue: St Matthew’s Sports & Social Club, Burntwood Time: 2.30pm Potential members who would like to come along should please contact the secretary on 07799 412274 or by email lichfieldbeacon@gmail.com. Thursday 19th March Lichfield Civic Society The Mysteries History by speaker, Hugh Ashton. All about Lichfield Mystery plays. Venue: The Lichfield Room, Wade Street Church Community Hall, Frog Lane. Time: 7.45pm Price:Visitors are welcome - £3 payable at door. Members and students free.

Saturday 21st March World Poetry Day Readings from the Lichfield Poets in the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum’s inspiring period setting. Venue: The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum Time: 3:00-3:30pm Free event. To book call 01543 264 972, email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk or visit www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk.

Sunday 22nd March Mother’s Day at The George Hotel Celebrate Mother's Day at The George Hotel by dining in our carvery

restaurant for a traditional three course lunch or join us for Afternoon Tea in The Garrick Suite. From just £17 per person

2LB. Time: 7pm - 11pm For tickets call Julia 07877 033815 in aid of the Rugeley Cat Society.

Wednesday 25th March 2020 Stonnall Conservation Society Gardens of the Historic Houses Association (Midlands) We look forward to welcoming Andy Smyth who will take us on an illustrated tour of some of the less well known gardens of privately owned property in the Midlands. It shows the diverse range of styles that may be experienced in the region. Venue: Stonnall Youth & Community Centre, Main Street, Stonnall WS9 9EE. Time: 7.30pm

Words Alive! The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum Every Saturday, 10:30am – 11:45pm A weekly club for 8-12 year olds who love words! Read, write, create, act and illustrate in the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum’s historic birth room. Try your first session free! £3.00 per session, £2.00 for siblings.

Sunday 22nd March Mother’s Day at the Orangery Claire from Myrtle, Fox and Maude will guide you through her workshop to create a beautiful individual floral table arrangement followed by a cream tea with a glass of prosecco. Venue: The Orangery, Ingestre. Time: From 2pm. Price: £50 per person (plus booking fee) For more information, and to book, visit www.ingestreorangery.co.uk.

Thursday 16th April The Chairman’s Annual Luncheon There is a country and western theme this year. The City of Lichfield Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday. There is an optional lunch is at 12.30 pm followed by a talk at 2.30 pm. Venue: St Matthew’s Sport and Social Club, Burntwood. Time: 12 noon for 12.30pm. For more details please call 07971 113505 or e-mail peter.hitchman44@gmail.com.

Wednesday 8th April Lichfield U3A Painting with Light by speaker, Richard Stone. Venue: Wade Street Church (change of venue – access from Frog Lane). Time: 2pm

Saturday 11th April Live Music Venue: Lea Hall Social Club, Sandy Lane, Rugeley, WS15