Citylife in Rugeley and Cannock Chase April 2020 by Citylife In Lichfield

Welcome to CITYLIFE

Welcome to CITYLIFE in Rugeley & Cannock Chase, a monthly magazine bringing you our pick of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s news, events and stories. Each month CITYLIFE in Rugeley & Cannock Chase is delivered to 11,000 businesses and homes in Rugeley, Cannock Chase, Heath Hayes, Ravenhill, Etchinghill, Slitting Mill, Armitage, Handsacre, Colton, Hamstall Ridware, completely free of charge; bringing you the best that the area 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 youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve snapped an image that captures the spirit of the region? We want to hear from you!

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... 10 The Pools & Paths of Chasewater Jono Oates takes us on a stroll around the local nature reserve

............................. 12 Town Talk Rugeley Town Council's latest newsletter

............................. 18 Rugeley Fringe Festival This year, Rugeley will host its own Fringe Festival

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26 Tastes of the Season Simon Smith cooks up a springtime feast

............................. 28 A Window on the Past Victorian fashion is this month's subject

My Month in Parliament

By Amanda Milling MP

The last month had a very surprising turn, and one I was not expecting. During the reshuffle, I received a call inviting me to No. 10 where The Prime Minister, The Rt Hon Boris Johnson MP, asked me to join his Cabinet. The Prime Minister appointed me a Minister without Portfolio and Chairman of the Conservative Party. It is a huge privilege to be serving the Government in this role and one that I am looking forward to undertaking as well as continuing to stand up for Cannock Chase. Turning to local issues, I was able to meet with West Midlands Trains to discuss the ongoing issues with the Chase Line. Although the cancellations and early termination of services have reduced in frequency in recent weeks, I emphasised that the service is still not reliable enough. Various issues have been reported to me that still include delayed and cancelled trains, as well as staff shortages, anti-social behaviour and fare-dodging on the line. I impressed on them the need to address all of these issues. The good news is that timetable changes came into effect in March with one weekday departure per hour from Rugeley Trent Valley, which previously travelled to London via the Chase Line, will now terminate in the West Midlands, either at Birmingham International or Coventry. As always, if you need my help with any issues or concerns, please do contact me on 01543 877142 or email amanda.milling.mp@parliament.uk.You can also pop into my office to speak to a member of staff - no appointment is necessary. It is open for drop-ins between 12pm and 4pm on Monday to Friday.

LOCAL NEWS

Improvements to Cannock Town Centre

Cannock Chase Council’s Cabinet has approved a £94,000 spend on environmental improvements in Cannock town centre. The improvements will include a comprehensive painting scheme; improving the exterior appearance of the Prince of Wales Theatre; updating display cabinets around the town and a graffiti art scheme on roller shutter doors of empty Council owned buildings. The Council aims for the town centre improvements to be completed, to coincide with the opening of McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands in September of this year. .......................................................................................

Chase Leisure Centre Officially Excellent

Councillor Christine Mitchell tries out one of the exercise bikes at the leisure centre

Chase Leisure Centre is celebrating achieving the ‘Excellent’ rating in the Quest UK Quality Scheme for Sport and Leisure for the third time running. Run by Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles on behalf of Cannock Chase Council, Chase Leisure Centre has not only achieved ‘Excellent’, it has appeared in the top five in the country for performance. Quest judges assess a series of criteria including maintenance, housekeeping and business planning before awarding the accreditation. To find out more about Chase Leisure Centre visit www.inspiringhealthylifestyles.org/cannock/leis ure-centres/chase.

Donations Help Storm Damaged Bird Hide

Off to a Blooming Great Start!

A bird hide used by hundreds of people each week at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust’s Wolseley Centre headquarters, near Rugeley, was destroyed by the effects of Storm Ciara earlier this month. And, thanks to donations, the Trust raised almost £900 in just one week to buy a new roof and carry out upgrades and maintenance to the hide. The hide is used daily by visitors and is a great spot to see an array of birds, including kingfishers, sparrowhawks, nuthatches, chaffinches, robins, blue tits and many more. The Trust set a £750 target to cover the cost of the roof repairs, but exceeded that target as a result of the response to the appeal. .......................................................................................

Rugeley in Bloom kicked off with its first project in March, when a working party of ‘bloomers’ braved the rain to tackle a somewhat run-down area in Market Street, Rugeley. The site, next to the Red Lion pub and behind Morrisons, was formerly the site of a public toilet block many years ago. More work has been planned but, in the meantime, volunteers have planted a few donated flowers in areas where slabs are missing making it much tidier and brighter! A huge thank you to everybody involved. If you are interested in joining the team of volunteers, if are particularly green-fingered, or if there is another way you may be able to support Rugeley in Bloom, then please email RugeleyinBloom@gmail.com or join the Rugeley in Bloom group on Facebook. .......................................................................................

Digital Photography Courses

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust is giving people the chance to learn more about their digital camera by offering ‘Improve Your Photography Basics’ courses at the Wolseley Centre, led by local professional photographer David Rees. The course is perfect for people who want to take better photos with their digital cameras and suitable for people with a DSLR or digital camera who have only ever used the automatic settings and wish to improve their photography skills through practical tuition. Course topics include portraiture, landscape and wildlife and each session will teach you advanced camera controls, light and flash, equipment and composition and specialist techniques. The sessions run over two days on three occasions throughout the year and is priced at £40. The first course takes place on Saturday 25th April and Saturday 2nd May. Or people can also sign up to attend the course on Saturday 20th and Saturday 27th June, or Saturday 11th and Saturday 18th July. For more details, visit www.staffswildlife.org.uk/events or call 01889 880100.

Rugeley & District Lions Club News

In partnership with St. Augustine’s Church, Rugeley & District Lions Club is presenting ‘Mary Queen of Scots’ performed by Lesley Smith, Curator of Tutbury Castle.The date is Tuesday 21st April and tickets are £10 each to include a glass of wine or soft drink. For more information contact the Club on Facebook. On Tuesday 26th May, the Club will be holding another Fashion Show at Mansefield House, Rugeley. Tickets will be available shortly from Instaprint, Rugeley. Rugeley & District Lions Club is in possession of a wheelchair which can be made available for short periods to anyone in need of one. Again, if you are interested, contact via email or Facebook . If you have any questions or want more details about Rugeley & District Lions Club please get in touch on email at randdlions@hotmail.com or via Facebook.

LOCAL NEWS

SI Cannock Annual Charter Dinner

Phil and Pam Standing of Hagley Bowls Club

(l to r)Vice President SI Cannock Jackie Prince, Dinner Organiser Jill Gooch, entertainers Lynne and Lee Carroll, Hostess Carole Holdcroft

Soroptimist International Cannock and District held their 66th Annual Dinner on 7th February 2020 at Hilton Hall, Essington. This beautiful house, which was the home of the Vernon family for centuries, is now a conference, business and wedding venue. It was here that 60 members and guests enjoyed dinner followed by the comedian Lee Carroll who entertained everyone with his mixture of jokes, repartée and Neil Diamond songs, in which the audience all joined in with gusto. Before the meal guests had been welcomed by Past President Carole Holdcroft.These included Region President, Margaret Galuszka, and Nikki Archer, Supportive Care Director at St Giles Hospice, who spoke about the joint project SI Cannock and St Giles are spearheading to offer support to women who have finished their cancer treatment, but still have concerns which could be helped by talking to nursing professionals and other women going through similar problems. An awareness raising event is taking place on Wednesday 1st April at St Luke’s Church Centre, Cannock, and there are two sessions: 2.30pm-4pm and 6pm-7.30pm. .......................................................................................

Hagley Bowls Club Open Day

Hagley Bowls Club, Rugeley, will be holding an Open Day on Saturday 4th April at 1pm. Formed in 1940, Hagley Bowls Club is a friendly Crown Green Bowling Club situated just off The Western Springs Road, with parking available at the rear of the club off Burnthill Lane, next to the Community Centre. The Clubs’ present membership enjoys both social and competition bowling throughout the year and enters a number of teams into various local crown green bowling leagues, as well as running a number of club competitions for members throughout the year.

The Club also has an indoor shortmat which is used during the winter months and additionally teams can be entered into the Lichfield Astro Turf Leagues which are run during autumn and spring. Club members will extend a warm welcome to all, with complimentary light refreshments available during the afternoon. For more information, contact club secretary Peter Freeman on 07977599893, email hagleybowls@gmail.com or visit www.hagleybowlsclub.moonfruit.com. .......................................................................................

Local Schoolgirl’s Logo Design Chosen

The recently established Rugeley in Bloom group is off to a fantastic start with the unveiling of its official logo courtesy of local school girl, Isla Hodgkiss from John Bamford Primary School. Rugeley in Bloom aims to beautify Rugeley and is not simply about flowers. The group wants to tell the story of Rugeley and preserve the town’s colourful history. Eight-year-old Isla’s vibrant design incorporates the natural environment of the Chase, Rugeley’s rich mining and industrial heritage, as well as the colourful flowers. .......................................................................................

MP Welcomes Train Timetable Changes

Amanda Milling, Member of Parliament for Cannock Chase, has welcomed proposed

timetable changes to the Chase Line. The commuter line connecting Cannock Chase to the West Coast Main Line and Birmingham is operated by West Midlands Trains, and has seen many months of service disruption, with trains Amanda Milling MP being cancelled, delayed and terminated before completing their full route. Amanda Milling MP has been lobbying the operator to address these issues a number of changes were implemented in March, ahead of further changes in May. From 16th March, one weekday departure per hour from Rugeley Trent Valley, which previously travelled to London via the Chase Line, will now terminate in the West Midlands, either at Birmingham International or Coventry. Affected services are the 0820, 0921, 1020, 1120, 1220, 1320, 1420, 1516, 1620, 1720, 1820 and 1918. This change should now see the end of trains having to terminate early at Hednesford. .......................................................................................

15 Years for Gymophobics Stafford

Gymophobics Stafford, located at 20a Greyfriars, is celebrating 15 years of business! The Stafford branch was founded by the directors of Gymophobics, Richard and Donna Hubbard, in early 2005 and the couple have subsequently gone on to franchise more than 50 centres throughout the UK to become the largest ladies-only fitness group. The current owners, Joanna Rigby and Craig Barnwell, took over the Centre in January 2019. Behind every member at Gymophobics Stafford is a story, and over the past 15 years the Centre has seen quite a few incredible journeys, including that of Lisa McFarlane who won the award of ‘Slimmer Of The Year’ in 2014. Lisa has lost an amazing eight stone during her time at the centre.

Local Folk Group Needs New Faces ..............................

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. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

The Pools & Paths of Chasewater .....................

s the clocks spring forward and April welcomes the start of British Summer Time there is no better time to get out and about in the great outdoors and shake off the gloomy days of winter with a refreshing springtime walk. This month, Jono Oates takes a gentle stroll round the stunning waters of Chasewater and discovers its history as well as its natural beauty.

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, 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 the 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 rainy weather recently has meant that many of the paths closer to the water are very muddy. Please make sure that you have appropriate footwear and clothing and, if you are unsure about the safety of the paths, please check with staff at the Innovation Centre for advice. Parking charges now apply at the car park at the Innovation Centre. For further information ring 01543 370737 or visit the website at: www.enjoychasewater.co.uk/innovation-centre Sources: www.enjoychasewater.co.uk ; www.chasewaterrailway.co.uk

Town Talk Rugeley Fringe Festival

We are getting very excited about the Rugeley Fringe Festival coming to our lovely town on the weekend of the 23rd – 25th May 2020. We are booking up comedians, musicians, acrobats and spoken word presenters. We have a number of venues around town which will host events including Elmore Park for children’s entertainment, The Vaults, The Shrew, Bojollys, The Albion, Snug and Bar No. 3, Whitworth and Mason, Savannahs and outdoor events in Brook Square and Market Square. The Town Council is especially excited to host an evening of comedy on Sunday 24th May here at the Rose Theatre on Taylors Lane. If you would like to appear as one of the acts at our many venues then please go to our website and download an application form by going to the town council website: www.rugeleytowncouncil.gov.u k/Rugeley_Fringe_29793.aspx. You can also follow the Rugeley Fringe Festival on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for more up to date news and information on acts already booked. As soon as the acts have been confirmed, we will post the info on the website. Tickets will be available either direct from the venues or via our website for events at the Rose Theatre. Keep popping back to our website for more up to date information.

News from Rugeley Town Council

Charter Fair 6th June 2020

Preparations are well underway for this year’s Charter Fair. We have booking forms ready for you for the Charity Stalls and Market Stalls. These can be downloaded from our website: www.rugeleytowncouncil.gov.uk/Charter_Fair_29895.aspx. This year we will be celebrating the bicycle with thanks to #CelebrateNationalLottery25. Our parade this year will be a fancy dress bike parade from the centre of Rugeley to the Charter Fair site. Once at the field, you will be able to see Dangerous Steve juggling chainsaws, BMX bike displays, take part in Penny Farthing Bike races and much more. Keep your eyes peeled for more details of the day.

Town Talk COMPETITION

TIME

Win tickets to see Mr Stink in Rugeley!

JLW Productions are once again coming to the Rugeley Rose Theatre to share the smells and delights of Mr Stink! School performances run through the week and can be booked by emailing jonwylie@live.co.uk. The public show is at 7pm on Friday 26th June and tickets can be purchased from www.ticketsource.co.uk /jlwproductions priced at £8 per child and £11 for an adult. Based on David Walliams's touching, twisted and hilarious tale of Mr Stink. The very kind, but lonely 12-year old Chloe, invites ‘Mr Stink’ and his slightly wiffy dog, Duchess, to leave behind the wooden bench they call home and secretly move into her family’s shed. Matters become more complicated when Chloe’s mother, a woman with unfulfilled political ambitions, tries to take credit for Chloe’s generosity. But exactly who is Mr Stink anyway? Join us for a brilliantly staged version of this warm-hearted and funny tale adapted by award-winning playwright Lou Stien. We are giving away a family ticket for four people (worth £33) to watch this fantastic performance. In order to enter you will need to correctly answer the question below: What is Mr Stink’s dog called? a) Duchess b) Princess c) Queenie To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to Mr Stink 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 9th 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 33.

News from Rugeley Town Council

Town Councillor Vacancies

Rugeley Town Council has an exciting opportunity for two new councillors who want to get involved in the ongoing changes in the town. In the past 12 months the town council has developed a window display scheme in town; supported the Childhood memories project; secured funding from Heritage Lottery, National Lottery and Tesco Bags of Help; developed the first ever Rugeley Fringe; sorted new vibrant Christmas lights for the town; started to develop a Neighbourhood Plan; worked with local groups to get a voice on important local projects and planning applications……the list goes on.

Did you know that you only need to be 18 years of age to become a councillor? Do you have ideas for projects that will develop the town for its residents? Are you on the Youth Council and are looking to be more involved? Do you want to get involved in organising local events? Have you got energy and enthusiasm to attend and participate in meetings? You may want to consider putting yourself forward as a Town Councillor then. There are some do’s and don’ts to being a councillor though:

YOU MUST…

• Be 18 years of age or over. • Be a British Citizen or a citizen of the Commonwealth or a citizen of any other member state of the European Union. You must be either: registered as a local government elector for the town; or have, during the whole of the twelve months preceding the date of cooption occupied, as owner or tenant, land or other premises in the town; or your principal or only place of work during those twelve months has been in the town; or during the whole of those twelve months resided in the town or within 3 miles of it.

YOU MUST NOT…

• Be employed by the Town Council or hold a paid office (other than Chair, Vice Chair or Deputy Chair). • Be employed in an entity controlled by the town council. • Be subject of a bankruptcy restriction order or an interim bankruptcy restriction order or a debt relief restriction order or an interim debt relief restriction order. • Have within 5 years before the day of co-option, or since his/her co-option, been convicted in the UK, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man of any offence and have been sentenced to imprisonment (whether suspended or not) for not less than three months without the option of a fine. • Be otherwise disqualified under Part III of the Representation of the people Act 1983 (relating to corrupt or illegal electoral practices and offences relating to donations) or the Audit Commission Act 1998.

Should an election not be called for these vacancies, the co-option of these positions will be advertised on the 30th March 2020. For more information on how to apply, please go to our website www.rugeleytowncouncil.gov.uk.

Cannock and District Ladies Probus

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By Betty Hackett

ur speaker this Month was Glynnis Myles who specialises in Sign Language. She started some 20 years ago with the help of Charlie Butter from Stafford College. Glynnis became so popular she was asked to help with adults who had learning difficulties, although they were not all deaf. She works on a theory that less sign movement is easier to follow and understand. Glynnis recommends that if you can learn Sign Language you would be welcome in most job areas. All Sign Language can involve many movements with hands and fingers, and facial

expressions which make it more interesting to watch, but the system she used was an edited version. Members enjoyed an interactive and hilarious demonstration of ‘Signing Karaoke’ to “Sweet Caroline”, “Itsy, Bitsie, Teeny Weeny, Yellow Polka-dot Bikini” and finishing with “You Raise Me Up”. Glynnis also gave each member the gift of a bookmark with the signing alphabet. Following a meal and wishing Happy Birthday to a few members; new Member Meena was inducted and welcomed with her membership badge by Chairman Anne. Next month’s speaker is author and photographer Michael Leach who will present a slideshow. Meetings for Cannock and District Ladies Probus are held on the first Thursday of each month at The Chase Golf and Country Club at 12pm where they share a meal, good company, and usually have a speaker. Prospective new members and guests are welcome to join us if you book in advance and choose your meal menu.

For further information contact us on cannockladiesprobus@gmail.com and www.probusonline.org.

Chairman Anne Bumford with new member Meena Khiroya

Win a Collection of Photographs of Cannock Chase

Once a royal hunting forest, today Cannock Chase is designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty. It is a landscape of rolling hills, heathland and forest crisscrossed by a multitude of tracks and footpaths that provide an idyllic escape for its thousands of visitors. Armed with a camera and the need to exercise his four legged friends, over the years the Chase has been Robert Cartwright’s number one destination to enjoy his passion for photography and his dogs’ love of open spaces. Ever since he was given a Kodak Baby Hawkeye simple box camera in 1950, Robert has loved taking pictures, eventually turning his back on his career as an electrical engineer in favour of a career in photography, creating images promoting Staffordshire as a tourist destination. Now, in a stunning collection of photographs, Robert takes you on a journey through Cannock Chase as he knows it in his book Cannock Chase: Surrounding Villages and Countryside. The book is priced at £9.99 and is available

from local retailers, including Museum of Cannock Chase; The Staffordshire Wildlife Trust at Wolseley Bridge; Springslade Lodge Cafe on Cannock Chase; The Canalside Farm Shop at Great Haywood; and Waterstones in Stafford. Robert has kindly given Citylife two books as prizes. To be in with a chance of winning one, all you have to do is correctly answer the question below. In which county is Cannock Chase located? a) Staffordshire b) Derbyshire c) Shropshire

To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to Cannock Chase 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 9th 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 33.

Probus members performing “Signing Karaoke”

Forever Homes for Happy Hounds!

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ince Christmas, Rugeley Welfare for Dogs has successfully rehomed many pets â&#x20AC;&#x201C; here are just a few of the hounds who have been lucky enough to have found their forever homes! If you can offer a home to a dog in need, please call Ruth on 07900 090993 or Pauline on 07971 817877, or find RugeleyDogsWelfare on Facebook. Please note a donation and home visit are required.

The Ridwares Women’s Institute

.......................... By Dot Boulton

he irrepressible Helen Chambers regaled the January meeting of The Ridwares WI with the History of Pantomime. She explained that, although now a firm British institution, it had developed partly from the 16th century commedia dell’arte tradition of Italy, as well as other European and British stage traditions, such as 17th century masques and music hall. The character Harlequin was the main hero and the performance was in mime. In 1781, when Robinson Crusoe was published, Harlequin was portrayed on a desert island. In those days women were not allowed on the stage so young men played the part of the female. When women were allowed, they wanted to be young characters so the man played the ‘dame’. The ugly sisters first appeared in 1860 and they would be men who had to tread a line between being comical and also villainous! Augustus Harris was a great promoter of pantomime at Drury Lane in the 1870s and the production had to be really lavish for the Victorian audience.The song and dance sequences are an integral part and the finale celebrates the triumph of good over evil. Today, the British pantomime flourishes and big stars perform in them over the Christmas and New Year period. The pantomime is quite often a child’s first experience of live theatre. The next Community Coffee Morning will be held on Tuesday 7th April from 10.30am-12pm at the village hall. The April meeting will be on Tuesday 21st April with speaker, Clare McClure, advising on ‘What is Osteopathy?’ New members are always welcome. Just come along or call 01543 492136 for details.

Rugeley’s First Fringe Festival!

English Jones

Cloudy Galvez

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ver the May Bank Holiday (23rd-25th May), Rugeley’s very first Fringe Festival is being made possible thanks to Rugeley Town Council.

Residents in and around Rugeley have eclectic tastes and talents and, unlike larger towns and cities like Lichfield and Edinburgh, there hasn’t been, up to now, an outlet to showcase, partake and enjoy them. Therefore Rugeley Town Council is bringing a little bit of Edinburgh to Rugeley over the second May Bank Holiday!

Idealistics

Michelle Cox

Rugeley Fringe Festival has received an immediate positive response on social media – with ever increasing followers, comments, posts and importantly a high volume of interest in participating in the event over the weekend. From the outset of announcing the festival, bars and cafes offered their premises as venues, these include Bilash Restaurant; Bojollys; Daisy’s Kitchen; Savannahs; Snug and Bar No 3;The Albion;The Hub;The Shrew;The Vaults;The Vine; and Whitworth and Mason. Other venues will be stages on Brook Square and Market Square. The Rugeley Rose Theatre will host workshops and present the major headline acts on the evening of Sunday 24th May.

Second Beginning

A sneaky preview of the many acts registered to perform include: soloist Cloudy Galvez; performer Luke Norfolk; English Jones Band; Tiny Stories Improvisation Group; indie group The Idealistics; and international soloist, Michelle Cox. Those Old Records in Brewery St Market will hold a gig on Saturday 24th May with a variety of artists including Second Beginnings. Other acts include an aerial silk skills artist, magicians and children’s entertainers. Cannock Chase Radio will be present on the main stage on Sunday 24th May in Market Square. Thanks so far to Estate Signs, Hawkins, C Residential and Pipadverts. To follow more news about other performers and headline acts follow @rugeleyfringe on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Tiny Stories Improv

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 winning this Using the latest technology, making it unrivalled in the local magnificent prize, simply area, the firm operates from its head office in Penkridge and answer the following works with a wide range of luxury kitchen manufacturers within 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 33.

Cannock Women’s Institute

....................... By Jill Gooch

embers were inspired to take up a pen recently when they were encouraged by local author, Kim Nash, to pen their own work or join a book club. Kim, who lives in Hednesford and is known as ‘Kim the Bookworm,’ is an avid reader who turned her passion into her work. Kim took us on her journey, following her dream, meeting many authors through her job, and finally writing her own book. She always felt she had ‘a book in her’, and after meeting writers who advised her to ‘just go for it’ she eventually found the right time, and the right story, to put into print. Amazing Grace is a romantic, laugh out loud comedy which is loosely based on Kim’s cathartic experience after losing her mum and finding her way out through the grief. After writing, re-writing, proofing, and editing, the book was finally published. She was then asked to write a second book, Escape to Giddywell Grange, within six months! Also, our four-member team entered the SFWI (Staffordshire County) Quiz with 70 teams competing on general knowledge questions in an attempt to win the County Cup. Sadly, we were not winners, but we did have a laugh getting the questions wrong! Cannock WI meetings are on the second Thursday of the month at 10.30am at St Luke’s Church Centre, Cannock. Visitors are always welcome to come and join us for refreshments and a chat. For further information, email cannockwi@gmail.com, visit www.thewi.org.uk/staffordshire or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/oakleafstlukes.

Win Tickets to ‘All Shook Up’ at Rugeley Rose

................................................... Rugeley Musical Theatre Company is performing ‘All Shook Up’, a musical comedy based around songs made famous by Elvis Presley. It takes place in middle America in 1955, where one girl's dream, and a surprise visit from a mysterious leatherjacketed, guitar-playing, stranger, helps a small town to discover the magic of romance and the power of rock and roll. The show will run at the Rugeley Rose Theatre from Wednesday 29th April until Saturday 2nd May. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/rugeleymusicaltheatrecompany or by telephone on 0333 666 3366.

We’ve teamed up with RMTC to offer two tickets (worth £24) to the show on Thursday 30th April. To be in with a

chance of winning this prize, simply answer the question below correctly.

All Shook Up is based on the music of: a) Johnny Cash b) Elvis Presley c) Buddy Holly To enter, send your name, contact details and answer to Shook Up 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 9th April 2020. One entry per household. Multiple entries will be disqualified. Winners will not be offered a cash equivalent. 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 competition T&Cs on page 33.

Etching Hill Women’s Institute

..........................

he February meeting saw Ben Wilkes, on

behalf of the Border Collie

Trust, Colton, invited as

guest speaker. Following their recognition in 1976 by the Kennel Club, Border Collies were being bred in Ben Wilkes from the Border higher numbers however Collie Trust new owners did not appreciate how much exercise and stimulation these working dogs needed, meaning ever increasing numbers were looking for new homes. A lady named Hazel Monk foresaw this happening and began fundraising to rescue the dogs. She continued rescuing Border Collies until her death in 1992 and, in 1996, the Border Collie Trust was established as a registered charity and donations allowed for a rescue centre in Colton to be built. The evening continued with hot dog rolls being served, followed by a canine related quiz and the ladies sang the evening out with “How much is that doggy in the window” and “Daddy wouldn’t buy me a bow wow”! Meetings take place on the second Wednesday of the month at Etching Hill Village Hall, East Butts Road, Etching Hill from 7.45pm and new members are always welcome. For more information, visit www.wi-etching-hill.org.uk.

30th April 2020

Cannock Soroptimists

..........................

I Cannock was delighted to welcome Pat Tams as its first speaker for 2020. The evening was chaired by SI Cannock member, Olivia Lyons, who was an excellent substitute for our President Trish Smith. Olivia did a first class job, making every guest and member feel welcome. After a lovely Olivia Lyons (left) and meal and lots of fellowship, Pat Tams entertained with stories from her long Pat Tams, journalist. career as a journalist for several local newspapers, particularly the Rugeley Times. . She used cuttings and stories from old newspapers to provide a vivid picture of Cannock and Rugeley in the heyday of local newspapers, when every ‘hatching, matching and despatching’ event was covered in great detail. Newspapers at that time provided the only source of truly local news so the arrival of the weekly Cannock Advertiser or the Rugeley Times was eagerly awaited and read by every family member. Pat explained the questions a good reporter needed to ask and how to conduct a thorough interview in 30 minutes. Her talk was interspersed with amusing anecdotes of the situations and stories she covered in her long career. Information about Cannock Soroptimists can be found at www.sigbi.org/cannock-and-district, or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SICannock

How Does Your Garden Grow? April

By Piper Nurseries

...........................

e’re starting to see daffodils and flowering trees bloom, proving that spring has finally arrived! Despite the torrential weather over the last couple of months, we can expect a few more sunny days, interspersed, of course, with the inevitable April showers. But don’t let this put you off getting outside as your garden needs you at this time of year! Indoor-sown seeds are well into growth and it’s now time to start sowing outdoors too, but be careful as April usually brings a frost or two, so make sure you have adequate protection. This includes your fruit blossoms too. With all the rain of late, and a milder winter than usual, the weeds in your garden could well be running wild, so it’s time to tackle them and get them under control. Sow hardy annuals, herbs and wild flower seeds outdoors, repair bare patches in your lawn or re-seed them, and give everything a good prune while you’re at it. You should also start to feed your hungry shrubs, such as roses, and don’t forget to give a little bit of love to your houseplants – they will need the amount of water they get increasing now that the warmer weather is on its way. After all the wet weather, we should have some lovely, bright days ahead, so don your boots and gloves, get out into your garden and start enjoying it again! Piper Nurseries & Plant Centre is the perfect place to stock up on all your gardening needs, and get advice from local experts. Find them at Piper Nurseries, Watling Street (A5), Gailey, ST15 5PR.

Rare Snake Bracelet fulfills Royal Tradition of Eternal Love .................................................................

By Adrian Rathbone and Kate Bliss

riginal antique jewellery is a favourite of Kate Bliss, specialist consultant with Hansons Auctioneers and Valuers, but a discovery at a recent valuation day brought particular excitement. A Victorian Serpent Necklace studded with rubies, emeralds, opals and a diamond had been inherited by the present owner, who had received mixed advice about the piece. “One jeweler said it was just costume jewellery and worth nothing” she said. “I was delighted when Kate examined it and told me it was Victorian and set with jewels!” Dating from the mid 19th Century, the bracelet is an example of serpent jewellery which reached its height in popularity around 1840, after Prince Albert gave Queen Victoria an engagement ring in the form of a snake set, like this bracelet, with rubies and diamonds and an emerald. Emerald was Victoria’s birthstone and it was common at that time for engagement rings to feature birthstones rather than the fashion for diamonds in the later 20th Century. The serpent design symbolized wisdom, commitment and eternity with its circular form. Kate remarked that the bracelet, was in excellent condition, given it’s age, with the large cabochon opals to the head, showing little wear and superb ‘fire’. “The diamond is a beautiful rose-cut, a popular style for this period before cutting methods were further refined to facilitate the modern brilliant” added Kate. It is also fitted with an unusual double hinge mechanism to allow the bracelet to flex for ease of taking on and

off. “With snake jewellery still popular amongst the designs of the world’s leading jewellery houses, such as Cartier and Bulgari, this stunning bracelet hits a contemporary fashion note with beautiful antique charm” Queen Victoria’s engagement ring (victorbarbone.com) said Kate. The bracelet will be offered in Hansons Fine Art Jewellery Sale in Etwall on 31st March. Do you have any Jewellery, watches or silver which you curious to know the current market value? Kate Bliss will next be at Bishton Hall, Bellamour Lane,Wolseley Bridge, ST17 OXN on Thursday 19th March from 10am to 3pm. No appointment necessary. Home visits can be arranged for large/multiple items, clearance or Victorian Bracelet set downsizing advice. For further information opals, emeralds, rubies and diamond please contact Adrian Rathbone, Associate Director on 01889 358050 or email enquiries@hansonsbishton.co.uk

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.

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.

Spring Lamb Steak with Crushed Jersey Royals and Rosemary & Mango Salsa

Thai Style Lamb Salad

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.

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 1xtbsp fresh coriander 1x tbsp fresh mint 1 x tbsp ponzu or soy sauce

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

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

My Cookery Workshops

......................................

or those of you wanting to increase your repertoire and brush up on your culinary skills I hold bespoke cookery skills days.

I include knife skills, butchery, breadmaking, sauces, desserts and fish cookery in each course. I can also cover anything you would like to learn about, either for dinner parties or family cookery, to make life easier and more adventurous.

The benefit is that you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 lot of food to take home. As an alternative I do a cookery demonstration followed by dinner for parties of eight people. Both of these make ideal presents.

For more information contact Simon on 07947 646091 or visit www.simonsmithchef.com.

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A Window on the Past

Victorian Fashion

Mention Victorian fashion and immediately crinolines spring to mind. But Victoria's reign lasted for more than 60 years and fashions change. In the 1830s skirts were full, but not excessively so. They gradually widened and, at their most extravagant, crinoline skirts could have a hemline in excess of five yards in circumference. The fullness later became confined to the back and the bustle was born. Sleeves could be anything from the ‘leg of mutton’ (as in the printed cotton dress illustrated) to bell shaped (the shot silk dress) to fully fitted. What remained nearly constant was the length and skirts were to the ankle or longer.

1. Five dresses rediscovered in a trunk at Brereton in 1986 modelled by pupils from the Friary School, Lichfield. From the left: black and purple striped mourning gown; a printed cotton gown from the 1830s; a maternity gown circa 1858-60 in beige and blue striped taffeta; a dress circa 1858 of blue and pink shot silk; a royal blue and white striped silk gown circa 1890 trimmed with ‘chemical lace’. 2. A yellow brocade dress circa 1850-60, probably worn by Mrs Robert Landor (nee Mary Noble). Back view. 3. Fanny Louisa Sneyd 1830-1892. 4. Edith Warham, taken around 1875. She was born in 1860. 28

5. An example of what could be bought in Rugeley in 1899. 6. Mr & Mrs Chilton who lived in Albion Street. The Landor (local history) Society is a focus for those who wish to learn more about the history of Rugeley and its surrounding parishes. It was founded in 1953 and was named in honour of Walter Noble Landor, local and county historian, who became the Society’s first President. More information is available at www.landorlocalhistorysociety-rugeley.btck.co.uk

Advertising Feature

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business needn’t worry about the loss or theft of sensitive data. Plus, cloud-based virtual desktops are easy to rapidly install outside a quarantined area. Worried about securing those remote connections? Another option is a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN connects computers, smartphones, or tablets to a shared or public network as if connecting to a private network. These encrypted connections to the internet secure data and protect employees’ mobile activities. Mobile Work Helps Every Day You can hope that your employees stay healthy and your business remains unaffected, but why take that risk? Empowering remote work benefits business, even without the threat of a fatal flu. Remote teams enjoy greater work-life balance. The workers spend less time commuting and are more productive. Empowered, they also feel trusted and more engaged. Meanwhile, business can save money on physical space and hardware investments. Additionally, the hiring pool of qualified personnel expands with remote work, and the business can offer its services more globally and flexibly. All that’s true whether the coronavirus becomes an issue for your business or not. Enabling a remote workforce takes technology. Need help installing and connecting your employees? We can help. Contact us today at 01889 579990.

A Rugeley Author

.....................

By Landor (local history) Society

t first glance Pictures and Problems of the London Police Courts, written about 1900, has no relevance to Staffordshire, but the author Thomas Holmes was a Rugeley boy who became a Police Court missionary in London. He was a poor boy who, by hard work and self-education, attained the position he eventually held. His book portrays some aspects of life in Rugeley in the 1850s. Referring to his schooldays and schoolmaster he remarks: "Ours was a church school, we had to go the Sunday School and Church twice every Sunday, and woe betide the lad who had not conducted himself well on Sunday. The Sunday School was held in the Chancel of an old Church, the remaining part of which was a picturesque ruin." He goes on to say that the children had a break of a quarter of an hour during which time they played among the tombstones. The schoolmaster was also the superintendent of the Sunday School, and if as sometimes happened, a boy got a black eye in a fight during play, he had his own peculiar method of dealing with him; he got a good caning on Monday morning, while the boy who administered the black eye got off scot free. Apparently the master believed in the maxim ‘to him who hath shall be given’. In church the boys sat in a gallery with the master in front of them. He had a rod about twelve feet long beside him with which he prodded any boy who was inattentive. One incident of his schooldays reveals the visit to Rugeley of a famous man. "Before I left school, a dark, bronzed and severe looking man came in one day and I was called out of class to work out a problem on the

Postcard interior of the Old Chancel

Easter Church Services

blackboard for him. I went back to the class thrilling with the touch of Dr Livingstone!" (Dr David Livingstone visited Rugeley in 1857). Mr Holmes mentions that in those days bread was a shilling a loaf and tea was six shillings a pound. He himself went to work in the foundry at 11 years old, working 14 hours a day for three shillings a day. After an accident and a long illness Mr Holmes became caretaker of the British Workman Club in Bow Street. In those days the club consisted of a library, reading room, billiards room, refreshment room, dispensary, gymnasium and club rooms. Eventually, through the good offices of the vicar (Rev. RM Speer) Mr Holmes became a police court missionary. He describes the vicar as "a saint of God" and "a King of men".

...................................

St. Augustine’s, Rugeley April Saturday 4th 3.30pm: Children Against Climate Change meeting Thursday 9th 7.30pm: Liturgy of Maundy Thursday with foot washing 9pm: Stripping the altar and vigil Tuesday 21st 7.30pm: Lesley Smith as Mary Queen of Scots

Sunday 26th 10.30am: St. George’s Day Service St. Michael’s, Brereton March Saturday 28th 10am -1pm: Easter Trail, for all ages to explore the Easter story brought to life with interactive actors, plus crafts and refreshments

April Palm Sunday 5th 8am: Said Holy Communion Service 9.45am: Family Holy Communion Service with blessing of palms

Monday 6th 7.30pm: Stations of the Cross Wednesday 7th 10am: Said Holy Communion Service Maundy Thursday 9th 7pm: Agape Meal with Holy Communion and the Stripping of the Altar Good Friday 10th 2.00pm: Last Hour at the Cross Reflection Service Easter Day 12th 9.45am: Family Holy Communion Service with brazier for lighting the

St. Michael’s

Paschal Easter Candle and sprinkling with water for renewal of Baptismal vows Sunday 19th 10am: Parish joint final service for Rev George Church of the Holy Spirit, Etching Hill April Tuesday 7th 5pm: Stations of the Cross Thursday 9th 6pm: Stripping of the Altar with simple Seder meal. A moving, reflective vigil with quiet music as the church is stripped of all its

St. Anne’s

vestments as we remember Jesus being stripped and beaten after His arrest. A simple Seder meal, at which Jews remember the escape of the Israelites from Egypt, will be served during the evening. Church of the Good Shepherd, Pear Tree Estate April Good Friday 10th 3.30 pm: Stations of the Cross St. John’s, Slitting Mill April Wednesday 10.30am: Coffee Morning – all very welcome.

What’s On ....................

Promote your event in our What’s On guide and reach over 11,000 homes and businesses for only £15 for businesses and £5 for charities plus VAT. Entries must be 50 words maximum. To book contact Kristen Lackajis 07885 380632 kristencitylife@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 RUGELEY'.

Thursday 2nd April Foster & Allen Foster & Allen’s Tour is supported by a special edition new release, Timeless Memories, which features 182 tracks from 10 of their most popular and favourite albums, many of which have not been reissued in the UK for a number of years. Venue: Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock Time: 7pm Price: £24 Contact: 01543 578762 or visit www.princeofwales.live

Monday 6th - Monday 13th April Self-Guided Activities Self-led Easter trails around the museum and grounds every day during the school holidays. Venue: Museum of Cannock Chase Time: 11am-4pm Price: 50p

Wednesday 8th April Easter Eggstravaganza Drop-in Make eggsellent art and crafts at our drop-in art and craft session with an Easter theme. No need to book – just turn up. Venue: Museum of Cannock Chase Time: 11am to 3pm Price: £2.50

Thursday 9th April ‘Spring Daffodils and Bunnies’ Wet-felting workshop with Kanj Nicholas. Learn the art of wet-felting with artist Kanj Nicholas in this family workshop and create your own spring picture. Venue: Museum of Cannock Chase Time: 11am-12:30pm or 2pm-3:30pm Price: £10 per work created. Booking essential.

Competition and Prize Draw Terms and Conditions 1.Entrant’s 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.

Saturday 11th April Live Music Night with The Forgery Licensed bar and raffle on the night. . Venue: Lea Hall Social Club, Sandy Lane, Rugeley, WS15 2LB. Time: 7pm-11pm Price: £10 a ticket, includes food. For tickets call Julia 07877 033815 in aid of the Rugeley Cat Society.

Wednesday 15th April Wolf Clan Survival Day Can you survive in the Wolf Clan? Join the prehistoric tribe and learn how to survive in the wild. Make cord from natural materials, clay pots, cave paintings and use flints. Suitable for age 7+. Venue: Museum of Cannock Chase Time: 10am-12 noon or 1pm-3pm Price: £10. Booking essential.

Tuesday 21st April Mary Queen of Scots by Lesley Smith The curator of Tutbury Castle, Lesley Smith, visits Rugeley & District Lions Club and brings to life this formidable character. Ticket price includes a glass of wine or soft drink. Venue: St Augustine’s Church, Rugeley Price: £10 Contact: email randdlions@hotmail.com for more information.

Friday 24th April The Bon Jovi Experience Venue: Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock Time: 7.30pm Price: £22 Contact: 01543 578762 or visit www.princeofwales.live

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.

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