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Welcome to CITYLIFE
Welcome to CITYLIFE in Rugeley & Cannock Chase, a monthly magazine bringing you our pick of the area’s news, events and stories. Each month CITYLIFE in Rugeley & Cannock Chase is delivered to 11,000 businesses and homes in Rugeley, Cannock Chase, Ravenhill, Etchinghill, Slitting Mill, Armitage, Handsacre, Colton, Hill Ridware and 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 you’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 George Ellis-Kendal 07834 998004 georgecitylife@gmail.com Production - Helen Smith 07967 154187 helencitylife@gmail.com
Inside...
6 Festive Faces Local make-up artist, Jo Howell, shares this season's top tips
............................. 12 Raising the Steaks! A review of Steak Night at The Strawberry Cabin
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14 A Window on the Past The road to Stafford falls under the spotlight
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26 Gifts for Him Find the perfect gift for your perfect man!
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28 The War Graves of Cannock Chase Jono Oates explores the history of local war cemeteries
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.
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Competition Winners
Congratulations to our October competition winners! Christmas Afternoon Tea at Tuppenhurst Barn was won by Mrs S Durose and the family ticket to Aladdin was won by Ms C Johnson.
Etching Hill Women’s Institute
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n September, President Ann Ingleby welcomed guest speaker Sue Robinson who gave an informative talk about the history of Encaustic Painting and how she became interested in the art. Samples have been found of encaustic artwork dating back to the Ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians. Also known as hot wax painting, Sue brought along her encaustic specific heated iron, upon which she melted various coloured waxes and swiped along a coated card to create some incredible artwork. 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 made most welcome. For more information visit www.wi-etchinghill.org.uk.
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Cannock Women’s Institute
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n 2020 Cannock W.I. will be celebrating its 20th Anniversary and is pleased to announce that it will be having a baby! As the W.I. usually meets in the daytime, this precludes some people from attending. So, from January 2020 there will be an additional Cannock W.I. Twilight Meeting at 7.30pm-9.30pm on the second Thursday of the month at St. Luke’s Church Hall. The Launch Party is on 7th November 2019 at 7.30pm St Luke’s Church Hall, Cannock WS11 1DE. Come alone. Bring a friend. Join the group. We are waiting to welcome you! For further information email cannockwi@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/oakleafstlukes.
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Gemma Winter Hairdressing
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Festive Faces .............................. By Jo Howell, Make-Up Artist & Writer
s we move from autumn to winter and the party season is on the horizon, one factor often overlooked is how to update your make-up to reflect the festive period. Whether you wear a lot or a little make-up, you can make some quick and easy adjustments to your usual routine to give you that extra party pizazz. Here are some top tips to make sure you look the belle of the Christmas ball.
Festive Tip 1: Brows, brows, brows Eyebrows are essential to frame your face and can change your whole look if done incorrectly. Firstly, identify what type of brow look you’re aiming for – the big, heavy brows favoured by younger women may not suit a lady in her 50s. Secondly, decide whether you’re going to use brow cream (great for a big night out) or an eyebrow pencil (perfect for a lighter look). Always, without fail, do your eyebrows first! Festive Tip 2: Eyes OR Lips Smoky eyes deserve the spotlight, so why take the shine off them with bright red lipstick?! Decide where you want your statement look to focus – glamourous eyes that can have false eyelashes added to them or perfectly kissable lips in a bold and bright colour. Mixing both often looks too overdone, so choose wisely. Festive Tip 3: Base Colour At this time of year, a heavier base is needed to give your complexion an even tone and colour. Foundation, as opposed to CC Cream or Powder, is ideal for giving your skin the desired look and making you feel ‘made-up’. Choosing the right colour is a whole different story. My best advice? Don’t put the tester on the back of your hand! You’re not going to wear the foundation there, so put it on your jawline and let it adjust to your skin before deciding if it’s the right colour. Always, without fail, do your foundation last! And because it’s a special time of the year, don’t be afraid to try new colours. Start experimenting now – you might be surprised how fantastic that green eyeshadow or pink lipstick can look!
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Established in Lichfield for over 15 years and now situated in Silks Lichfield, Gemma Winter Hairdressing offers a full range of on-trend services, using premium products to provide colour, styling treatments and hair extensions. At Gemma Winter hairdressing you will always receive a friendly and professional service. Visit Gemma Winter at 13 Dam Street, Lichfield or call 07419 322236. You can also find the salon on Facebook (@gemmawinterhairdressing) or on Instagram (@gemma_w_hairdressing).
Dollybird Cosmetics
Create a party look which lasts longer than the festive season with a semi-permanent eyebrow micro-blading treatment. Lichfieldbased Dollybird Cosmetics also offers derma-planing treatments for flawless skin, as well as eyelash extensions to really make your eyes stand out! For more information, or to book, call 07398 176706, email: dollybirdcosmetics@outlook.com or find Dollybird Cosmetics on Facebook and Instagram.
Mascot Hair & Beauty
A well-established salon based in Burntwood, Mascot offers a full range of hair treatments and beauty procedures by fullyqualified experts. The friendly hair team are specialists in colouring, re-styles and hair arrangements, plus there’s a nail technician, beautician and aesthetic nurse onsite, which means that Mascot is a one-stop-shop to give you the ‘wow-factor’! Visit Mascot Hair at 5 Water Street, Burntwood. Tel: 01543 672892 or find them on Facebook (@mascothairdesign).
KM Kosmetics
Feel a million dollars with K.M.Kosmetics of Lichfield. Specialising in Microblading, the Million Dollar Facial, Microneedling and Dermaplaning. Kristie offers a variety of treatments to suit your needs so that your make-up and skin stays fresh and still looks great, even when the party season is long gone! Find K.M.Kosmetics on Instagram @_kmkosmetics, email kmkosmetics@hotmail.com or call 07379439049.
Betsy Owens MakeUp
If you’re looking for something different for your creative make-up this year, then Lauren at Betsy Owens MakeUp is the make-up artist for you! Vibrant and bold, using the latest techniques and trends, you are sure to stand out from the crowd! Find Betsy Owens MakeUp on Facebook and Instagram (@betsyowensmakeup), or call Lauren on 07931 975679 for more information.
HD Hair & Beauty
Established several years ago by experienced salon owner/manager Donna Neale, HD Hair & Beauty is now one of the most sought-after salons in the area and has won awards for its high-quality, professional hair care. The family-run salon prides itself on its advanced cutting and colouring skills, special occasion hairstyles and hair extensions, as well as its wide range of nail treatments and extensions. Find HD Hair & Beauty at 244 Walsall Road, Bridgtown, Cannock. Tel: 01543 504291, or visit www.hdhairsalon.co.uk.
HX Hair
Rugeley-based colour specialist, HX Hair, is an awardwinning salon and a brand ambassador for globallyrenowned OSMO. From traditional hair colour, to something ultra-modern, bold and daring, HX Hair can give you a colour makeover that really turns heads! Find HX Hair on Albion Street in Rugeley, on Facebook and Instagram (@Hxhair) or by emailing hxhair@outlook.com.
• Lcn nail enhancements and uv polish • High Definition brows and makeup stockist • Dermalogica expert salon • Individual and Russian lash extensions • Lash lifts • Unisex waxing • Massage • Crazy Angel Spray tanning • Wheelchair accessible • Online booking system St Mary’s Old School Minster Pool Walk Lichfield WS13 6QT 01543264103 www.beauty-in-lichfield.co.uk
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Rugeley Christmas Tree Festival
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t Augustine’s C h u r c h , Rugeley is busy organising its second Christmas Tree Festival which will be held between 4-8th December at the Church. Last year’s festival was a great success and saw 36 local schools, community groups and businesses taking part. This year, the church hopes to have 40 trees on display. Admission into the festival is free but donations are always most welcome, with proceeds going to support the work of the Pathway Project (for victims of domestic abuse) and also the work at St Augustine’s. If you would like to buy a tree to donate, or volunteer to help man the church, please email bandrparish@gmail.com or call 01889 574157.
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Local School gets Sports Grant
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azel Slade P r i m a r y Academy has been awarded a grant of £1000 from the 'One Stop Carriers for Causes' Fund to purchase much needed sports equipment for use in school. The fund is from the One Sports Amabassadors Alfie Bevan, Stop chain of shops Dan Tonks, Lauryn Wilkes with and is raised from Sports Co-ordinator, Mr Mobberley. customers buying plastic carrier bags. The Academy has recently appointed Sports Ambassadors from Year 6 and these students put their skills to work by being given full ownership of the funding, helping to order the items online that they thought the school needed the most.
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Advertising Feature
To Backup or To Archive? ’Tis The Question By Neil Fletcher
Hamlet worried about whether to be or not. You may be more preoccupied with whether backup or archiving is better for your business. You know you need to secure your data, but how? This article examines the different benefits of both options. Back in the day, businesses kept important information on paper. They stored important records and notes in nearby filing cabinets for easy access. When there were too many files to close the cabinet drawers any longer, someone would do a big clean out. Older, important documents would get boxed for the basement or other storage area. They might still be needed for tax, or compliance, or other reasons. But you didn’t need those files readily accessible any longer. A similar scenario is true of digital business data. You can back it up to recover from hardware failure, cyberattack, or disaster event. Or you might archive the data for space management and long-term retrieval. Deciding Between Backup and Archive When it comes to the right form of data storage you’ll need to weigh: • the period of time you need to keep the data;
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• what protections from loss or illicit access your method offers; • whether the data can be easily restored or retrieved; • how accessible, searchable, and quickly available the data will be; • any industry or compliance standards that need to be met. The backup is a copy of your data. On a regular basis you’ll make a copy of the business data to provide you with a starting point in the event of a disaster. You'll decide how often to backup based on how often the data changes and the importance of data currency. Backing up data, an operating system, or application files, doesn't delete the originals. However, your older backup may be deleted when you make the new copy. If not, the backup can have another use. It can allow users to go back and review or recover earlier versions. It’s not a bad idea to have several backups. We recommend the “3-2-1” backup strategy. You’ll have three copies of your business data. One would be on the cloud, the other two on different devices (e.g. on your local computer and on a backup drive). Archiving puts a copy of business data into longterm storage. This is the data equivalent of moving that box of files to the basement. Typically, the archived version becomes the only available copy of
that data. The archives’ permanent record of data may prove useful in future legal disputes. Archived data is often tagged to enable streamlined search down the road. Moving information to archive can also improve processing speed and storage capacity. While a backup may be overwritten, archived data is generally not altered or deleted. In fact, it’s often physically disconnected from the computer or network. So, you’ll turn to a backup to restore your data if necessary, and to archives to retrieve information data. Key Takeaway Both backup and archive can prove useful. It’s not going to happen every day, but entire digital archives can be lost if a server is drowned by a flash flood. All the paper backups can be burnt to cinders in an electrical fire. That external hard drive could be stolen or crushed by falling debris in a hurricane. It’s best to avoid having a single point of failure. Both backing up and archiving business data is a smart precaution. Ensure business continuity by preparing for the worst. Our computer experts can help you backup, archive, or both. Start securing your business data with our support today!
Give us a call at 01889 579990
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Raising the Steaks!
Meet the Chef
Dining Review
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ollowing the appointment of a new head chef, Citylife editor, Kristen Lackajis, was invited to The Strawberry Cabin to sample some of his fantastic work. Steak Night at The Strawberry Cabin was music to my ears – I’m a HUGE steak fan, although somewhat of a steak snob as well, and I know every eatery within the area based on how well they can cook a steak… Little did I know that they were all in for some serious competition! Seated at a candlelit table in the cosy bistro, my guest and I enjoyed a smooth red wine whilst perusing the innovative menu before us. Having attended an Italian Evening several months ago and thoroughly enjoyed every mouthful, I had high hopes. So with mouths watering, we embarked on our culinary journey. For starters, I chose the hand-caught scallops served with red pepper gel, black garlic mayo and crispy bacon, and it tasted as divine as it sounds! Stunningly presented, with incredible attention to detail, the buttery scallops were soft and meaty, with the accompanying flavours and textures working perfectly together. My partner was equally impressed with his chicken liver pate, with onion chutney and crusty garlic-infused bread, which he devoured within minutes! For our main course, we’d decided to treat ourselves and ‘go the whole hog’ by ordering a chateaubriand to share. Ordering it ‘rare’ we waited in anticipation and we were not in the least disappointed with what arrived! A large hunk of the most incredibly tender, succulent and juicylooking steak was placed in front of us, surrounded by chips, salad, onion rings and two sauces (peppercorn and blue cheese). It is difficult to find a good steakhouse in the local area. I often find my steak overcooked and dry; sometimes it is not rested enough and therefore bloody; and, more often than not, it is sinewy and chewy… But I simply could not fault what I ate at The Strawberry Cabin! Seared on the outside, soft and pink in the centre, my knife slid through it like butter and it practically melted in the mouth. Despite being presented with a mountainous amount of food, we did not leave a morsel! Determined to somehow fit in a dessert, we ordered the classic raspberry crème brulee and the strawberries and cream – both of which used fruits picked freshly from Manor Farm itself. The sweet strawberries and creamy brulee were the perfect way to round off what had been an incredible dining experience! Hats off to the chef!
Cream of the Crop at Strawberry Cabin!
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he Strawberry Tea Room & Restaurant has appointed Gábor Wachter to the position of Head Chef in its award-winning restaurant. Gábor has worked at the Cabin since March and has a wealth of culinary experience plus a real passion for food! Born in Hungary, his particular inspiration is to produce food using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, which are plentiful in the restaurant as it is located on a farm. A chef since the age of 20, Gábor previously worked in a number of top quality restaurants in the area. His Sunday lunches are already becoming legendary and, along with the support of Paighton Smalley - the incredibly talented dessert chef – the kitchen duo are a formidable culinary force!
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Manor Farm, Watling Street, Hints, Tamworth, Staffs. B78 3DF. Telephone: (01543) 483680.
It's Pumpkin O'Clock!
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Don’t miss this year’s Pumpkin Fest at Manor Farm Fruits! Join the team for a day of fun where children can choose their own pumpkins to take home and decorate! There’ll also be a whole host of activities and entertainment to join in with, such as bouncy castles, the straw bale pyramid, spooky space hoppers, the sneaky scare tunnel and tractor rides on the Pumpkin Express! The Strawberry Cabin Tearoom is also open all day and will be serving hot and cold food, including Halloween cupcakes and other delicious pumpkin-inspired dishes! There’s no need to book tickets – just turn up! Dates: 19th-20th October and 26th October – 3rd November. Time: 10am-4pm Prices: £5 per child (under 2s free) and £1 per adult. £10 deposit for harvest sledges (fully refundable upon return).
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A Window on the Past The Road to Stafford
This month, the Landor (local history) Society takes us for a stroll along the road that leads from Rugeley to the county town of Stafford.
In the 1830s, Market Street was known as Stafford Street. By the 1850s the road from the junction of Bryans Lane and Market Street was called Stafford Road.The name Wolseley Road was not generally used for the road from Station Road towards Stafford until the late 1920s.
1. The point where Market Street becomes Wolseley Road (in the late 1920s), showing the wall round the Grammar School on the right. Inquests on Christina Collins and in connection with the Palmer case were held at the Talbot Inn opposite.
2. Rugeley Grammar School – the 1935 building (now the Chancel School). The Grammar School is believed to have been founded as a Chantry School in mediaeval times. It is known that by 1585 the school was being managed by six trustees. It closed in 1968 when the pupils transferred to the new Fair Oak School.
3. The listed building at the corner of Church Street in 1957 was nicknamed “Lottery Hall” as it was believed to have been built with the proceeds of a lottery. This late 18th century brick house has an unusually detailed voluted pediment.
4. Looking towards Rugeley in the 1940s. This very attractive row of poplar trees gradually became dangerous and the last of them was felled around 1980.
5. Nearer to Stafford is the horse trough presented by Revd the Hon. C.J. Littleton of Churchdale in 1909. Churchdale was a large house on the opposite side of the road. 14
6. Portobello Farm stood near the beginning of Western Springs Road. Its name lives on in the nearby road.
7. South Staffordshire Waterworks Brindley Bank pumping station. Probably photographed around 1910 as the message on the reverse is from someone working on the construction of the WWI camp asking a friend in Hull to procure for him two chisel handles.
8. On the opposite corner of Church Street is the 19th century Lanrick House, for many years the home of Dr Dillon. It has been a nursing home since 1978.
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.landor-localhistorysociety-rugeley.btck.co.uk 3
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Midland Game Fair
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The Midland Game Fair was held on 14th-15th September at Weston Park, Shifnal. For information about attending next year, visit www.midlandgamefair.co.uk.
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....................... Customer Testimonial
“When we first started UK Boiler Fit we needed to let the people of Staffordshire know that we were here. “Our first advert in the area was placed in Citylife where Helen couldn’t have been more helpful in sorting out our advert and promoting our business in the magazine as well as on Facebook. We found that we had a response from it almost straightaway. “Customers have been so kind in informing me of where they have seen us advertised and in such a lovely magazine which they enjoy reading - I cannot recommend Citylife highly enough!” David - UK Boiler Fit
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Halloween in the Forest!
It’s all about to get a little bit spooky at Cannock Chase this month as Go Ape introduces a series of devilish Halloween delights for the little ones! Taking place across three days during half term (30th & 31st October, and 1st November) Go Ape will be holding creepy dusk sessions on its Treetop Adventure course. As the light begins to fade children and families will be invited to take to the skies and experience the forest from a different angle as they navigate tricky treetop crossings and brave the speedy zipwire finale – all whilst avoiding the ghouls! There will also be activities to take part in, such as a fancy dress competition, and tasty cakes and treats to purchase, with all money raised going to the Teenage Cancer Trust. The event is suitable for children of all ages, although children must be 1 metre or above to use the Treetop Adventure facilities. To find out more about Go Ape’s Halloween dusk sessions, find Go Ape online at www.goape.co.uk or call 01603 895500.
Happy Birthday!
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ymophobics in Rugeley is celebrating nine years of being open, and being the number one place in the area for ladies to enjoy their fitness routine! Congratulations from the Citylife Team!
Newlife’s Autumn Raffle
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Cannock-based charity, Newlife, is offering a fantastic cash prize in its autumn raffle. Not only does a raffle ticket give you the chance to win £1,500, it also helps provide vital support to disabled children and their families at the same time. As well as the top prize, there is a 2nd prize of £250 and five winners will each get £50 as 3rd prize. Tickets cost £1 and can be purchased in-store or online at www.newlifecharity.co.uk/raffle. The closing date is Tuesday 5th November with the draw taking place on Friday 8th November.
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Rugeley Shops Travel Back in Time!
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As part of Staffordshire History Month the shops of Rugeley went back in time throughout October as they took part in the 'Rugeley in Bygone Days' competition, with each shop dressing its shop window with items from the past. Organised by Rugeley Town Council, 12 shops took part in total, with the Debra charity shop on Brook Square being declared the overall winner.
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
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Private Chapel of Rest 116 Netherstowe, Lichfield, Staffs. WS13 6TS
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How Does Your Garden Grow? November
......................... By David at The Plant Plot
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n November it’s getting markedly colder. The leaves are falling from the trees, plus the windy, wet weather is on the increase. Many gardeners dread the decline into winter, but there is still so much about your garden that can be enjoyed. Tender plants will need protecting from early frosts and the freezing rain, so move plants into a greenhouse if possible, or a sheltered spot. It’s also worth wrapping your pots too to help stave off some of the chill – bubble wrap works well. If pigeons are an issue, cover brassicas with netting to protect them and prune back your roses to prevent wind-rock. Winter moth damage to fruit trees can be prevented by using grease bands around the trunk. You’ll most likely find yourself raking up lots of fallen leaves from your lawn, but don’t forget to clear them from patios too (as they can be slippery when wet) and also remove leaves from ponds and water features. Regarding planting, you can put in your tulips bulbs ready for next spring, and also plant out any winter bedding too. Remember winter can be a tough time for birds in terms of water and food, so keep supplies well topped up to encourage birds to flock to your garden. Finally, a seasonal bonfire (where allowed) is the perfect way to dispose of excess debris, whilst keeping warm on a chilly evening.
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Find everything your garden needs to get it through the winter at The Plant Plot Garden Centre, Stafford Road, Lichfield. WS13 8JA. Visit online at www.theplantplot.com.
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Advertising Feature
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A Young, Light and Really Fruity Wine
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olseley Wine Loft’s Dave Eglington introduces a wine worth a second look.
How many of you are familiar with the Gamay grape variety? Well, for those of you who aren't here's a little info. They say that Gamay is part of the large selection of grapes originating in the famous Burgundy region of France centuries ago from Pinot noir and Dave Eglington of the Wolseley Wine Gouais Blanc and so it tends to make lighter Loft wines. The vines both bud and ripen early in some of the cooler regions of France, producing wines that can be high in acidity with low tannins making it a good contender for serving young and possibly chilled. Gamay is turned into wine ultra-fast (usually just 6-8 weeks after harvest). It’s sealed in tanks and undergoes a process called 'carbonic maceration', whereby grapes at the bottom of the vat are crushed by those on top and the uncrushed grapes at the top ferment in the carbon dioxide. The result is a very young, easy-drinking wine that's light and really fruity, sometimes with a touch of pear drop to it, and goes well with a whole range of foods. I've been cagey about naming this wine so far, as it has a bit of history. Many wine experts don't care for it, with some even declaring it ‘undrinkable.’ Guessed yet? It's Beaujolais Nouveau and, if you've not tried it before, it's well worth a shot. Sure, it's not for everyone, but it's young, vibrant and fun! Try on its own or chilled with rich, creamy cheeses, seafood or even herby poultry and some fresh crusty bread - delicious! Beaujolais Nouveau day in France is the third Thursday in November. Some 25 million bottles are produced a year, from grapes that must be harvested only by hand by 4000-odd growers. It's then bottled and sped around the world, with very little lasting past six months.
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World Porridge Day C
a n n o c k Soroptimists marked World Porridge Day on 10th October by holding a Porridge Breakfast at the home of one of the Club members. The idea began when the President Trish Smith invited a representative of Mary’s Meals to come along and talk to club members. Mary’s Meals is a registered charity which sets up school feeding programmes in some of the world's poorest communities, and feeds more than 1.5 million children in 18 countries around the world every school day.The charity launched World Porridge Day to celebrate the huge difference our daily meals make to the lives of chronically hungry children. Cannock Soroptimists have supported Mary’s Meals in various ways for many years but this is the first time they have held a Porridge Breakfast event, raising £125 which will feed nine children for a whole year. For more information on the work of the club please visit the club’s website www.sigbi.org/cannock-anddistrict or their Facebook page www.facebook.com/SICannock.
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Christmas Gifts for Him £59.95
We've brought together a selection of gifts from local retailers, so you can get the perfect present for the man in your life!
Men’s Covalliero Milan Bodywarmer (in blue or brown). Available from ProElite Saddlery, Piper Nurseries & Plant Centre, Watling Street (A5), Gailey.
VW Campervan Planter. Available from Piper Nurseries & Plant Centre, Watling Street (A5), Gailey.
£11.99 Scruffs Winter Essentials Pack includes a fleece hat, neck warmer and gloves. Available from Tippers, Power Station Rd, Rugeley.
£8.95 £29.95
Southern Comfort Men's Tapered Fit Shirts. In a variety of colours. Ranging from £25-£35. Available from Nib Nabs, Brewery Street, Shopping Centre, Rugeley.
Men's Boxed Cashmere Equilibrium Scarfs. Variety of colours and styles. Available from Nib Nabs, Brewery Street, Shopping Centre, Rugeley.
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Makita 18V Li-ion Cordless Combi Drill & Impact Driver (comes with two batteries and a Makpac carry case). Available from Tippers, Power Station Rd, Rugeley.
Hip Flasks. In a variety of colours and styles Available from Gifts from the H❤rt, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley.
£5.99
£15
£219.99
Gent's Sekonda Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch. Available from MW Jewellery and Repairs, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Rugeley.
Do you know a boy or girl who loves singing? .............................. Advertising Feature
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hildren aged between 7 and 11 from across the region are invited to ‘Be A Chorister For A Day’ on Saturday 18 January 2020 from 9.30am to 4.00pm in Lichfield Cathedral. Every year, Lichfield Cathedral joins with the Cathedral School to host a free event for children interested in singing. The actionpacked day starts with a singing workshop and includes sports and craft activities and lunch. The day finishes in the Cathedral when the children sing with the renowned Lichfield Cathedral Choir during Evensong. “These workshops are a brilliant way to experience what, for many children, is a new way of singing - sacred choral music. The material is challenging, but the effect is amazing,” said Benjamin Lamb, Director of Music at Lichfield Cathedral. “Singing is good for you in so many physical ways, but above all,
it makes you feel good, like you’ve got a spring in your step.” Choral music has been at the heart of the Cathedral since medieval times and the chance to take part in the tradition of Evensong during ‘Be A Chorister For A Day’ is a unique experience. The children will see just how much work the choristers of Lichfield Cathedral put into every rehearsal to ensure that during each service they are performing at their peak. The workshop in January is free and all materials and lunch are provided, but places are limited, so parents are advised to book early. Contact Amelia on 01543 306168 or email a.grey@lichfieldcathedralschool.com for a registration form.
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The War Graves of Cannock Chase
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n the 11th November at 11am services will be carried out at war memorials around the country, commemorating those who lost their lives during World War I and World War II. Our feature writer, Jono Oates, looks at the history of the Commonwealth and German War Cemeteries at Cannock Chase. On a crystal clear, blue-skied late September afternoon I walked through the German War Cemetery in the beautiful surroundings of Cannock Chase. The autumnal sun started to dip down, casting long shadows across the serried ranks of pale grave stones of the near 5,000 German and Austrian soldiers who had lost their lives while on British soil during the First and Second World Wars. It was a solitary experience, as I was the only visitor to the graves that afternoon, and the pin-dropping silence and solitude of this beautiful, peaceful and deeply respectful place was clearly in stark contrast to the thunderous, mind-numbing, brain-jangling explosions and gun-fire that the troops would have been bombarded with on the front line. But how did so many troops come to their final resting place in this quiet and remote part of Staffordshire? In 1915, shortly after World War I had commenced, it was realised that there was a growing need for a war cemetery close to the military camps that were gathered around Cannock Chase. The landowner at the time, the Earl of Lichfield, granted permission for a cemetery to be built and the Commonwealth War Cemetery was established in 1916. The cemetery now contains the graves of 97 Commonwealth troops, 228 German soldiers from the First World War and 29 German troops from the Second. The Commonwealth troops were mainly soldiers of the New Zealand Rifle
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Brigade who were stationed at Brocton Camp on the Chase. In 1918, an influenza pandemic, known colloquially as the Spanish Flu, swept through the country and many New Zealand troops, training at the camp, lost their lives as a result. In 1959, it was agreed that all of the graves of the German soldiers and sailors who had been buried around Britain should be moved to a single location at Cannock Chase. The Federal Republic of Germany worked alongside the British Government and the German War Graves Commission organised the lengthy process of the reinternment of the graves from over 700 locations across Britain. On June 10th 1967 the chairman of the council, Councillor WM Myatt, officially opened the German War Cemetery. Students from the German cities of Bremen and Bremerhaven attended the ceremony as well as local dignitaries. Deacon Walter Trepte, president of the German War Graves Commission, provided the inaugural speech and appropriate music was provided by the band of RAF Stafford. The cemetery was designed by German Diez Brandi and the buildings designed by Stafford architect Harold Doffmann. The cemetery included a Zeppelin memorial, with sarcophagi containing the bodies of four crews whose airships had been shot down during World War I, the memorials were crafted by Sussex sculptor John Skelton. Today the cemeteries are maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and groups of students attend the sites each year to make sure that they are kept neat, tidy and well maintained. Graves of British, Commonwealth, Polish, German and Austrian soldiers are all commemorated at the Cannock Chase War Graves.
It is a special place and, if you have never visited, one that I recommend that you come to see, to pay your respects to more than 5,000 young men, from all nations and both sides of the conflict, who gave their lives for their respective countries. May each and every one of them Rest in Peace. Sources: www.cwgc.org.uk ; www.historicengalnd.org.uk; www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk ; www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
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Ice Cream and Bombers Rugeley’s War Memories
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n Friday 27th October the World War II Childhood Memories project was launched at the Rugeley Rose Theatre on Taylor’s Lane. The project was Heritage Lottery funded and culminated in a video, produced and created by a group of young people, who interviewed a number of the older generation about their childhood memories while growing up in Rugeley during the Second World War. A marching band had welcomed everyone to the event, playing nostalgic music from the war years. Then a large audience, made up of the young project team, the interviewees, local dignitaries and invited guests, watched the inaugural showing of the video on a large screen
Members from the project team
Jean Bagwell
in the theatre. Councillor Niamh Mahon, of Rugeley Town Council, who project managed the scheme, introduced the video and explained the importance of the war years to the development of Rugeley and congratulated the young team who had worked so hard and so enthusiastically on the project. There were some fantastic reminiscences from the interviewees with stories of children watching the German bombers fly over the town, wondering whether they would drop the bombs around Rugeley or carry on. Jean Bagwell explained how a man on a bike would sell goat’s ice cream – ‘the nicest ice cream I have ever tasted,’ she exclaimed! The exhibition, which includes the video, photographs and artefacts from the era, is on display at Rugeley Library until 31st October 2019 before going out to other Cannock Chase Libraries until Spring 2020.
Cole Wood’s project certificate
Mary and Gordon Ash with Councillor Niamh Mahon
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F
Songs from the Stage & Screen
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ollowing his sell-out concert at The Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock in June, Jordan Adams will return to the area this autumn with a brandnew show. Songs from the Stage & Screen will see Rugeley resident, and acclaimed classical crossover and musical theatre performer, Jordan Adams joined in concert by special guest female vocalist Charlotte Bird for an intimate evening of entertainment which takes the audience on a musical journey with iconic tracks from the west end musicals and classic movies. Music covered will include tracks from Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, Dreamgirls, James Bond, Funny Girl, Aspects of Love, The Greatest Showman, Bohemian Rhapsody, The Greatest Showman, Wicked and Tina Turner - The Musical. The event will take place at Rugeley Rose Theatre, Taylors Lane, Rugeley on Sunday 3rd November at 7.30pm and tickets are priced at £20*. To book, visit www.jordanadams.live or call the box office on 0844 357 9787.
*EXCLUSIVE READER DISCOUNT – Use code CITYLIFE when booking online or over the phone and get £5 OFF per ticket! .
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My Month in Parliament
By Amanda Milling MP
Trains continue to dominate a lot of my time. I recently attended the drop-in session that West Midlands Trains held in Rugeley. I hope passengers found it a useful forum to share their experiences using the line and their frustrations regarding the unreliability of the service. I certainly found it very worthwhile to meet with many passengers who have been in touch with me about the service. Since the meeting I have once again written to West Midlands Trains to follow up on a number of the issues raised by passengers, and I continue to raise the plight of passengers with the Trains Minister. Back here in Rugeley and Brereton you may have seen me out and about as I deliver my Annual Report - in sunshine and showers! This newsletter gives you a flavour of some of the work I have been undertaking, events I have attended and causes I have supported. I would like to thank local Conservative councillors and volunteers who are helping deliver this across Rugeley and Brereton. If you do see me or the team as we deliver these leaflets do let us know about any issues that you would like my help with. 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 and between 10am and 4pm Tuesday to Friday.
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New TV Antiques Cannock Friends of St Giles Expert in ............................. Staffordshire .................................... C
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Chopard Bear Pendant
egularly appearing on various BBC antiques shows, Kate Bliss is launching a new series of jewellery valuation days with Hansons Auctioneers at Bishton Hall, Wolseley Bridge, for the public to bring their valuables for a free appraisal. A Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain, Kate specialises in both period and modern jewellery. “This is a great opportunity to meet the people of Staffordshire and their jewels!” commented Kate. “Bishton Hall is a wonderful period country house, so visitors may enjoy the splendid surroundings on the valuation days. “ Built in the late 18th Century, by banker John Sparrow, Bishton Hall makes an ideal period setting for valuations and sales of antiques. Hansons will be holding monthly Antique Sales with Kate attending once a month for free jewellery valuations. Already uncovered by Kate at Bishton Hall is an 18ct gold Chopard diamond set “Happy Bear” Pendant. With almost 100g of 18ct gold and studded with numerous brilliant cut diamonds, the piece is estimated for auction at over £5,000. “So often I meet people who have no idea of the value of their jewellery. It’s wonderful to be able to tell someone their brooch is actually set with diamonds, when they have consigned it as ‘costume’ for the charity shop. I love helping owners realize their assets sometimes for substantial amounts and at a valuation day, you never know what you might see,” said Kate. Kate’s next valuation day at Bishton Hall is on 21st November, 11am until 3pm. General valuations every Thursday 10am to 4pm. Free Home Visits for large/multiple items, house clearance and downsizing advice. For more information contact Carol Jones, Hansons Area Manager at cjones@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk Kate Bliss.
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annock Friends of St Giles recently presented a cheque for £2,000 to St Giles Hospice. Secretary, Lynda Williams, and treasurer, Trish Mellor, presented the cheque to Dr Emma Hodges, CEO of St Giles, when they attended an event for all Friends’ groups. Cannock Friends are involved each year in events Lynda Williams, Dr Emma Hodges, and Trish Mellor. leading up to Christmas. In November, the group will decorate a tree at St Luke's church in Cannock as part of the Christmas Tree Festival. On 8th December the annual Light Up A Life service will be held at 6pm at St Luke's Church. This is for all those who wish to remember the life of a loved one to join in a celebration and light service. Cannock Friends will be at St Luke’s Church again on Thursday 12th December when they have been nominated to receive a donation from monies raised at a concert called Swinging into Christmas which was given by Voices of Tantallon and organised by Cannock Chase Conservative Association.
Cannock Chase Ladies’ Probus
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t its September Luncheon meeting, Cannock Chase Ladies' Probus Club welcomed back Kath Reynolds to entertain with one of her many interesting talks - To Love and to Cherish. This traced the history of weddings and the many customs associated Sue Grimsley, Sheila Yard, past throughout the years since Chairman Jean Hood, Kath the 1920s. The ladies Reynolds and Norma Hutchinson. enjoyed sharing memories of their own weddings. The club is almost 40 years old and has a membership of 65 ladies who meet on the last Thursday of each month for luncheon and fellowship at the Barns Restaurant, Cocksparrow Lane, Huntington. For membership enquiries contact 01543 505988.
What’s On ....................
Saturday 2nd November Rugeley Cricket Club Bonfire & Fireworks Venue: Rugeley Cricket Club, ChaseleyRd, Etchinghill. Time: Gates open 5.30pm.
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'.
Sunday 3rd November Songs from Stage & Screen Join Jordan Adams and Charlotte Bird for an evening of musical entertainment! Venue: Rugeley Rose Theatre, Taylor’s Lane. Time: 7.30pm. Price: £20 (CITYLIFE discount available, see page 30). To book visit www.jordanadams.live or call 0844 357 9787. Monday 11th November Power for All Power for All is a new non-political group established by Rugeley residents who aim to use the redevelopment of the Power Station as a catalyst for redeveloping and improving the local area. Venue: Rose Theatre, Taylor’s Lane. Time: 6pm For more information email: powerforallrugeley@hotmail.com or find the group on Facebook.
Wednesday 13th November Rugeley Probus - The Devil’s Darning Needle Kevin Reynolds has been a volunteer member of Staffordshire Wildlife Trust for many years and has studied the habits and ecology of dragonflies. His talk, with photographs, will concentrate on these fascinating insects. Venue: St Paul’s Community Hall, Lichfield St, Rugeley. Time: 10am.
Venue: St Paul’s Methodist/United Reformed Church, Lichfield St, Rugeley. Time: 7.30pm Price: £6 on door. Light refreshments available. All proceeds to charities.
Sunday 8th December Christmas at Rodbaston Come along for lots of family fun, shop for festive treats at our Monday 18th November craft fair, meet with Santa and Rugeley & District Lions Join us for an evening with Nell Gwynne, to be played join us for Christmas at Rodbaston! Venue: Rodbaston College, Rodbaston Drive, by Lesley Smith (Curator of Tutbury Castle). Penkridge, ST19 5PH. Venue: St. Augustine’s Church, Station Road. Time: 10am - 4pm Time: 7pm Free entry.Visit our Facebook page for more Price: Tickets are £10 and include a glass of mulled wine or a soft drink. Tickets available from Instaprint, information. 21-23 Albion Street, Rugeley (over 18s only). The Chase Parkinson’s Support Group Fancy a chat, some information or just a coffee? Saturday 23rd November The Chase Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the Tippers Christmas Market Venue: Tippers, Europa Way, Lichfield, WS14 9TZ. third Thursday of every month at The Red Lion Pub, Time: 10am-4pm Brereton at 10.30am – 12.30pm. Monthly meetings are held at The Aquarius, Hednesford at 7.30pm on the last Monday of every month. Everyone is very Wednesday 4th December Salvation Army Cannock Citadel Band Christmas welcome. For information contact Harry at harry.wilkes46@gmail.com or 07817 743196. Concert
Win Tickets to the Festive Gift Fair at the NEC The biggest and most lively indoor Christmas shopping fair in the Midlands is back – with so much more choice, fabulous bargains and great musical entertainment! From the moment you arrive, you’ll be caught up in the fabulous atmosphere, anticipation rising as you browse 300+ stalls overflowing with thousands upon thousands of unusual gifts, stocking fillers, decorations and artisan food & drink at prices worth celebrating!
It’s an Aladdin’s cave of sparkling stalls offering more choice, more variety and more fun than the High Street, and it’s all under one roof. The run up to Christmas Day involves a lot of planning and most of us have so much to do and so little time to do it! Take the pressure out of Christmas shopping and find all the presents you want at the one-stop shop Festive Gift Fair. When your bags are full, just drop them off at the Present Creche and continue to shop some more! The Fair is open daily 9.30am-5pm from Thursday 14th – Sunday 17th November 2019. Tickets are available from just £6 per adult (plus fulfilment fee) at www.festivegiftfair.co.uk or by calling the Ticket Factory hotline on 0844 581 0808
(calls cost up to 7p per minute from a BT landline, plus your phone company’s access charge).
We’ve got 7 pairs of tickets to the Festive Gift Fair to giveaway – all you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is correctly answer the following question: Where is the Festive Gift Fair held? a) Bull Ring, Birmingham b) NEC, Birmingham c) NIA, Birmingham
date of 8th November 2019. One entry per household. Multiple entries will be disqualified. Winners will not be offered a 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. To view our Privacy Policy go to citylifeinlichfieldltd.co.uk. Full competition terms and conditions on page 34.
To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to NEC Competition at competitioncitylife@gmail.com or post your entry to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield WS14 4JS by the competition closing
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