Bore Street, Lichfield WS13 6NA 01543 262244
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June 2017 20 52
Inside...
6 Win Pimm’s Afternoon Tea for Two at McKenzie’s
Answer our anagram competition to win the perfect afternoon treat. 20 City Image Competition
Calling all photographers and artists. 40 A Window on the Past
Happy Father’s Day Dad.
52 A Snap-Shot of Whittington History
By Kate Gomez.
55 A Taste of Summer
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A walk through some of the best places to dine this season.
Welcome to CITYLIFE
Welcome to CITYLIFE in Lichfield, a monthly magazine bringing you our pick of the city’s news, events and stories. Each month CITYLIFE in Lichfield is delivered to 18,000 businesses and homes in Lichfield, Kings Bromley, Fradley, Alrewas, Whittington, Stonnall, Shenstone, Little Aston, Hammerwich, Burntwood and Longdon, completely free of charge; bringing you the best that the city has to offer. Each issue features heritage stories exploring the rich history of our area, plus competitions, interviews and the latest in fashion and style.
Got a story or charity event you want to share with our readership? Think you’ve snapped an image that captures the spirit of the city? We want to hear from you! Our business is bringing you Lichfield’s city life.
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CITYLIFE Contacts Editor - Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048
josscitylife@gmail.com
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Steve Brown 07740 166497 stevebrowncitylife@gmail.com Karen Wraxton 07791 635019 kaz.citylife@gmail.com Rebecca Hill 07970 513144 rebeccahillcitylife@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.
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Win Pimm’s Afternoon Tea for Two at McKenzie's Restaurant
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cKenzie's Restaurant is set in the beautiful old Corn Exchange building on Conduit Street, Lichfield.
Creating delicious dishes from locally sourced and provenanced suppliers, McKenzie’s is the perfect place for a special occasion or a midweek treat. Combining laid back luxury with a great menu catering to all tastes, McKenzie’s is renowned for its steaks that are truly succulent and sourced from the best local suppliers. Add to that a great bar, friendly staff and beautiful surroundings and you have the recipe for the perfect dining experience.
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Pimm’s Afternoon Tea
McKenzie's new Pimm’s Afternoon Tea is priced at £17.50 per person and runs throughout the week from 3pm - 6pm. Pimm’s Afternoon Tea includes: Homemade Scotch Egg; Colin Ryan, Streetly Butcher Pork Pie; Finger Sandwices (Eggs and Cress, Cucumber and Cream Cheese and Tuna Mayonnaise with a 'hint of mint') plus a slice of Cake, Pimm’s Jelly and Strawberries and Cream. Tea and coffee is extra or subsitute for a glass of Pimm’s.
To win Pimm’s Afternoon Tea for Two, just unscramble the anagram, and rearrange the letters to answer the following question:
Pimm’s is traditionally served with lemonade, cucumber and a sprig of which blue-flowered herb?
OARBEG ______
To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to McKenzie’s Competition* at citylifecompetitions@gmail.com or post your entry to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS by the competition closing date of Closing date Friday 23rd June. One entry per household. Multiple entries will be disqualified. Winners will not be offered a cash equivalent. Full terms and conditions on page 65. *McKenzie’s Restaurant will contact the winner to arrange their prize and may contact entrants with information, offers and news. If you do not wish to be contacted please include the words OPT OUT in your entry. You must be 18 or over to enter this competition. The winner may be required to produce proof of age on claiming their prize.
Congratulations to Tony Brassington, who gave the correct answer of 'Creme Brulee' and solved the anagram in the May issue.
Johnson & Garrick - A new exhibition
“Garrick was a very good man, the cheerfullest man of his age”, said Samuel Johnson of his former pupil and life-long friend. As part of the year of celebrations to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Garrick’s birth, the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum will be exploring the lives of the two men as they rose to the height of celebrity in a major new exhibition ‘Johnson & Garrick: a friendship in constant repair’. Opening on Saturday 17th June, Johnson’s home on Breadmarket Street will be partly redisplayed with rarely seen items from the Birthplace collections, as well as loans from the Garrick Club and Dr Johnson’s House in London, Stoke’s Potteries Museum and the Lichfield Heritage Centre collection. Star pieces include Garrick’s own wig powder-puff, his Shakespeare ring and a masterpiece by Benjamin Zoffany featuring Garrick portrayed as Lord Chalkstone, the only role in which Garrick confessed to having trodden the stage a little the worse for drink. Paintings, prints and personal items will tell the story from his early days in Lichfield, which he considered his native place although ‘drop’t’ at Hereford, to his triumph on the London stage, his relationship with the
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works of Shakespeare and his reputation and legacy, with the life and words of Johnson woven throughout. The exhibition is free entry, daily from 10.30am till 4.30pm until Sunday 24th September.
The 18th century theatre was a raucous and disreputable place, and Garrick was revolutionary not only in his acting style but also his innovative management, transforming the theatre-going experience in his age and beyond. On Monday 10th July at 7pm Dr Graham Nicholls will set the scene and explore Garrick’s fame further in the talk ‘David Garrick and the Georgian Stage’. Tickets cost £3.50 and are available from the Birthplace reception on the corner of the Market Square, open 10.30am till 4.30pm daily. Call 01543 264 972 or visit www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk for more information.
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Pedal to the Metal
n 1949, a young boy from a village near Lichfield was given a Pathfinder Special pedal car. Finished in British racing green and measuring just 1.6m long, the Pathfinder Special design is based on the Jamieson OHV 750 Austin Seven racing car of the late 1930s, made by the Austin Motor Company Ltd. The J40 series (Junior 40), were constructed in a special factory in Bargoed in South Wales, which was set up with government funds to help disabled Welsh miners to find a new interest in life. Opening in 1949 and running as not-for-profit, the factory was named The Austin Junior Car Factory and it utilised offcuts of sheet metal from the Longbridge Austin factory. The Pathfinder Specials were constructed in the same way as the full-sized cars themselves. These pedal cars were regarded as the best pedal car on the market at the time and incorporated features such as working headlights, a horn, pneumatic Dunlop tyres and an opening bonnet. The Pathfinder cost a staggering £25 with tax (an average working man would have had to save two to three week’s full wages to purchase one of these machines). The cars were cherished by some of the luckiest children of the time and were exported internationally. The factory sadly ceased trading in 1971 but the pedal cars are now keenly sought after by collectors across the globe who are willing to pay thousands for them. The Pathfinder Special pedal car that was received as such a special gift back in the 1940s has been restored to its former glory by the current and original owner, who has decided to find a new home for it. Estimated to fetch £4,000 to £6,000, the new owner is sure to treasure it when it comes up for sale in Hansons Fine Art Auction on 1st July. Entries of jewellery, watches, silver, ceramics, European/Asian
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works of art, paintings and furniture are currently being invited for inclusion in Hansons 29th June to 1st July Fine Art Auction. Free valuations for all manner of jewellery, antiques and collectables are held every Monday in Lichfield from 10.30am to 12.30pm at The Hedgehog Inn, Stafford Rd, WS13 8JB, (in aid of St Giles Hospice). For further information, please contact Adrian Rathbone, Associate Director on 01283733988 or email arathbone@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk
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Smalls for All!
rasmus Darwin Academy student Taylor Edwards Brown is raising awareness of the need for bras in some areas of Africa by running a “bra drive”. For the past three months Taylor has been collecting second-hand bras which are then sent to the charity Smalls For All (who are based in Glasgow) who then send them on to communities in Africa. Smalls for All collects and distributes underwear to help women and children in Africa who may be living in orphanages, slums, camps and schools, as well as providing underwear to hospitals.
This very worthwhile ‘drive’ is part of Taylor’s work towards a Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. The original target of 1,500 bras has been reached, and in fact 1,600 have been collected, but more would be very welcome as the bra drive continues until the end of August.
There are official drop off points for second-hand and unwanted bras at David Arthur Opticians, Market Street, Lichfield; Debonhair Hairdressers, Netherstowe, Lichfield; Erasmus Darwin Academy, Chasetown and The Old Mining College, Chasetown.
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Win a Sophie Conran 24 Piece Box Cutlery Set worth £115!
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itylife has teamed up with local cutlery and gift designer Arthur Price to give three lucky readers the chance to win a 24-piece box set of the latest Sophie Conran pattern ‘Dune’ worth £115 each!
Whether you need everyday kitchen cutlery or silver plated canteens for that special occasion, Arthur Price has it all. Arthur Price also designs a huge range of gifts from china mugs by Laurence Llewellyn-Bowen to picture frames. Available online at arthurprice.com and in most department stores including House of Fraser and John Lewis, you can also get everything you need, for less, at the Arthur Price Factory Shop.
The Arthur Price Factory Sale Between 8th and 22nd July, pop along to the Arthur Price Factory Shop and you’ll get bargains of up to 70% during the quarterly Factory Shop Sale. From canteens to cake spoons you could extend your existing service or treat loved ones to a special silver gift. For more information call 01543 267324 or pop in. To find the Arthur Price Factory Shop head towards the Royal Mail 14
Win, Win, Win!
Sorting Office on Britannia Way and follow the Arthur Price signs.
To be in with a chance of winning one of three Sophie Conran Dune 24-piece box sets just answer the following question: On what road is the Arthur Price Factory Shop located? A: Britannia Way B: Camelot Way C: Warwick Way
To enter, send your name, answer and contact details to Arthur Price Competition, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS or email citylifecompetitions@gmail.com by the competition closing date of Monday 24th July. Terms and conditions apply, see page 65
Bargain Hunt comes to Lichfield
BBC's Bargain Hunt visited Lichfield in May when presenter Natasha Rankin and Richard Winterton of Richard Winterton Auctioneers filmed a portion of the show at Richard Winterton Auctioneers' saleroom. Citylife was there to meet the popular antiques experts.
Twig Man Day at Beacon Park
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aturday 13 May saw Beacon Park’s first Twig Man Day event with 26 people enjoying making small sculptures out of air drying clay. Starting at the edge of the woodland, and armed with just a lump of clay, participants went on a scavenger hunt to find natural objects to add to their clay figures. An amazing variety of sculptures were made on the day, including a pterosaur, unicorn, fairy, swan, hedgehog, a number of people and a one eyed monster called Phillip! To be kept up to date about park activities and events subscribe to ParkLife, Lichfield District Council’s quarterly e-newsletter featuring news from Lichfield Historic Parks, at www.lichfieldhistoricparks.co.uk
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New Summer Season ‘Time For Dreamers’
he Lichfield Garrick theatre has announced its new summer season reflecting its celebrations of David Garrick’s 300th anniversary with a brand new Community Musical and the return of the Garrick Rep Company amongst a host of familiar and new faces. Dreamy delights are on offer in the theatre’s Community Musical, The Dreaming - a musical version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream composed by Howard Goodall. As with The Hired Man last year, Artistic Director, Tim Ford will direct this show. With a cast of 70 already confirmed from Lichfield and the surrounding districts this promises to be the biggest in-house production the theatre has produced to date. The theatre welcomes back Oddsocks Theatre Company with their Mods and Rockers version of Romeo and Juliet while drama lovers take a step back in time to 1958 as Jim Wormold enters a world of espionage and double agents in Graham Greene’s Our Man in Havana. Later in the season there will be thrills galore with the classic Wait Until Dark. The Garrick Introducing series grows from strength to strength with Between The Two, Stuff and Kenneth Williams: Cult Figure. Crime is also on the cards as the theatre’s main stage is transformed into Bloodford Village during the Food Festival in a new interactive murder mystery show. For music lovers, there’s an unplugged show with Gareth Gates and a variety of tributes including Rod Stewart, Elvis and George Michael. The theatre’s classical concert series continues with Haydn and Mozart Keyboard Sonatas and Musical Theatre entertainment is on offer with Beyond The Barricade and The Opera Boys. Comedy performances include Jasper Carrot, Joe Pasquale and Paul Zerdin plus the theatre’s monthly comedy night, Comedy 42. Family highlights include Cbeebies’ Mister Maker and The Scarecrows’ Wedding while the theatre also welcomes the West End productions of Horrible Histories and The Tiger Who Came to Tea. Later in the season sees the return of the Garrick Rep Company with Letters to Emma, a new play based on the life of Anna Seward, again directed by Tim Ford. The show will be made here in Lichfield and has been supported by Arts Council England. The new season brochure is available from the Box Office and online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com/downloads To book your tickets call the Box Office on 01543 412121 or visit www.lichfieldgarrick.com.
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A Guide to Lasting Powers of Attorney
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By Richard Wells, Managing Partner at Philips Legal Solicitors
ccessing someone’s finances if they become incapacitated or ill is a complex and protracted process, which could make things very difficult for a spouse, partner or children. Bills could go unpaid and if cash is needed for any purpose, it would be inaccessible. Setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows someone that you trust to act on your behalf should the need arise. Your chosen person can then manage your affairs in your best interests. This could be in the long term or until such time that you are able to take up the reins again yourself. There are two types of LPA, both of which Philips Legal Solicitors can help you with. A Property and Affairs LPA This allows your nominated person to: • Manage your finances and property • Make sure your bills are paid • Make decisions about your assets
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A Health and Welfare LPA This allows your nominated person to: • Make decisions about your medical treatment • Decide whether it’s best for you to continue to live at home or whether residential care would be more appropriate If you haven’t set up an LPA, your loved ones may have to pay out a lot of money on your behalf. The Court of Protection would have to appoint a deputy to manage your affairs, which is both time-consuming and costly. An LPA will avoid the distress of a delay and also preserve your assets to pay for the care you may need in the future. With Philips Legal Solicitors, setting up an LPA is a pretty straightforward process. Simply call us free on 0800 228 9988 and we will happily give you more details or arrange a meeting.
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City Image Competition calling all photographers and artists!
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ver the coming months, we’d like to see your photographs, drawings and paintings of Lichfield and the surrounding area. Each month we’ll publish a new selection of the work received, and the final winning image (announced in the December 2017 issue) will receive a £200 prize and ‘City Image’ Trophy. For terms and conditions see page 58. The competition is open to all ages. Photographs, paintings and drawings should be of Lichfield city or the surrounding area and countryside. Please note that you should own the copyright to any image that you send in and the image should be your own work. If sending in a photograph, please make sure that you have
Beacon Park by Phil Sutcliffe
permission to submit the image from any individual who may be pictured in your work, and also appropriate permissions if the photograph was taken on private property. To enter, email your images to josscitylife@gmail.com or post them to City Image Competition, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. Apologies but we cannot return images sent to us, so if submitting a drawing or painting you may want to send us photographs of your work rather than original artwork. We have been blown away by the talent of the artists and photographers who have sent us their work so far. We print here a selection of those images that truly capture our beautiful city. Thank you to everyone who has submitted their work.
Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum – an original gouache and watercolour painting by Ivor W Leech
The Regal Cinema by Barbara Hart
Beacon Park by Sandra Stubbs
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Copyright of these images remains with the creators and Citylife in Lichfield Ltd and they may not be reproduced by any unauthorised individual or organisation.
Minster Pool - an original gouache and watercolour painting by Ivor W Leech
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Citylife in Lichfield’s
City Image Cont... Panoramic image of ‘Stowe Pool on a rather interesting day’ by Robert Ings
View of the city from Claypits Lane by Clive Read
The Cathedral from Stowe Pool by Phil Massey
Night sky over Beacon Park, with Moon and Venus aligned. By Andrew Yu
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Stretcher - National Memorial Arboretum by Dennis Verdon
Copyright of these images remains with the creators and Citylife in Lichfield Ltd and they may not be reproduced by any unauthorised individual or organisation.
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Jennifer Ashe & Son “Serving the community is a privilege.”
Jennifer Ashe & Son Funeral Directors opened the doors of the Brownhills office in November 2016. Founded by Jennifer, son John and son-in-law Richard, they “feel privileged to be serving our local communities. We feel truly honoured when a family entrusts their loved ones into our care. We believe in offering affordable funerals for all, and with this in mind we have created several packages to suit all budgets.” The Jennifer Ashe & Son Funeral Packages offer excellent, professional and compassionate service at this most difficult time. The Silver package starts from £950; the Gold package from £1,450 and the Platinum package from £1,950. Jennifer commented: “We are experienced in supporting families who need to arrange funerals using Social Fund payments – if you require this service, speak to us in confidence and we will be able to support you through the process. “As members of the National Federation of Funeral Directors we have signed The Fair Price Charter committing us to providing affordable funerals for all. We have also signed The Fair Funerals Pledge in aid of removing Funeral Poverty in the UK. We are proud to be members of the Veterans Bereavement Support Services, who offer affordable funerals and bereavement care for those who have served in the Armed Forces and the Merchant Navy. “Many people these days plan ahead and choose to pay for their funeral upfront, removing the financial burden from their loved ones. Speak to us about our prepayment plan options, and we can offer advice and support if this is something that you are thinking of doing. We are available around the clock to support and care for you and your loved one when you need us, as a family we know and understand what the loss of a loved one feels like.” Located on Brownhills High Street, Jennifer Ashe & Son are best placed to serve the communities of Brownhills, Clayhanger, Aldridge, Pelsall, Walsall, Cheslyn Hay, Great Wyrley, Cannock, Burntwood and Lichfield. Their website offers more details on the services that they provide, and useful information on what to do when a bereavement happens. Go to www.jafunerals.co.uk for further information.
New floral addition to Lichfield City station
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he garden planter installation, designed in the form of Lichfield cathedral, has come to life through creative planting by green-fingered London Midland staff with bay trees and a variety of flowers. The eye-catching new display has also been entered into the Blooming Lichfield competition. Ben Williams, a technician at London Midland’s Soho depot, pioneered the creation and with the help of Soho colleagues. Going forward, the ‘cathedral’ display will be tended by a new Lichfield City station adoption group, which is currently being formalised, and the adoption project will be expanded to include artwork by local schools for the station. “If you would like to join the new adoption team at the station and take pride in tending this fantastic platform garden, full details on how you can get involved can be found at www.londonmidland.com/get-in-touch/adopt-astation”
Please quote
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when responding to adverts
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Talking to Thomas Nickell
Recently, Joss Musgrove Knibb interviewed Thomas Nickell - the highly regarded American pianist who is performing at Lichfield Cathedral on Wednesday 12th July.
J.M.K: What can audiences expect to hear in July? T.N: The concert at Lichfield Cathedral is centred around turnof-the-century and mid-20th century orchestral works inspired by America, or ‘the New World’. There are three major works that provide three different perspectives on American music, one from a Czech composer, and the other two from American composers. I think it is a pretty exciting and immersive look at American music!
J.M.K: What prompted you to learn how to play? T.N: My family already had a piano in the house because my mum played a bit, but I gravitated towards it on my own. I am very grateful to my parents for never pushing me into anything. I was five years old when I first began taking piano lessons, but I attempted to write music even before then, inspired to do so by listening to Mozart every night while falling asleep. I asked my parents if I could start piano lessons and since then I’ve never considered spending my life doing anything else. 26
J.M.K: What is your favourite genre of music and who is your favourite composer? T.N: I can't really say I have a favourite genre of music; I just love music that inspires people to think and explore ideas they wouldn’t have before! As far as my favourite composer, that changes quite frequently, but at the moment I’ve been quite interested in Laurie Anderson’s work and also Olivier Messiaen.
J.M.K: Who have you most enjoyed collaborating with so far in your career? T.N: Collaborating with David Curtis and the spectacularly talented members of the Orchestra of the Swan have given me some truly unforgettable memories. All I want in an artistic collaboration is a partner who is curious and excited about what they are doing, and Orchestra of the Swan certainly goes far and beyond this criteria!
J.M.K: Are you looking forward to performing at Lichfield Cathedral? T.N: Yes, I am looking forward to it very much! It is a stunning space and I can’t wait to share music that I love so much with you all!
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Liquid Gold
By Richard Winterton of Richard Winterton Auctioneers
his month I am looking at the exciting, booming market of whisky or ‘liquid gold’. We have seen some impressive hammer prices in our past two specialist sales; helped in no small part by the Chinese market’s desire to purchase. Our live auction platforms are streamed direct into the homes of Chinese buyers, and this coupled with mounting interest in this area of collecting makes the market electric, and it fact whisky collections now stand alongside and within many investment portfolios The rare whiskies market is a collectors’ paradise, with so many little-known distilleries that finding the perfect rare bottle becomes a passion, and if these small distilleries gain stellar reviews, it could also be a sound investment. We never offer investment advice but it is the case that some buyers (especially at the high end of the market) will see whisky as an investment rather than something to drink. The big names such as Jonnie Walker, The Macallan and Glenfiddich have a strong following, with Highland Park, Springbank, Glendronach and Bowmore all on the rise. However, there are pitfalls to look out for when collecting Scotch whisky as
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there is no definition of what can be called a limited edition. Look for single casks (often limited to 500 bottles or fewer) or a high alcohol content (which will add value to the overall item) as well as those limited editions designed for specific markets or travel retail units. Japanese whisky is also seeing an explosion of interest and is of superb quality, leading to an increasing demand for drinking and collecting stock. With this area as with all others, it’s a good idea to do your homework. Scotch has seen ups and downs over the years and many distilleries closed down. Stock from those distilleries will be in short supply and just may see some exciting results in the future - but that’s the buzz of collecting whatever your tipple! We are welcoming TV’s Bargain Hunt to our next sale, so look out for next month’s ‘tales from the saleroom’ here in Citylife, where we’ll go behind the scenes with the BBC. Richard Winterton Auctioneers offer free valuations every Tuesday from 9.30am to 4pm at the Lichfield Auction Centre, Wood End Lane, Fradley Park, WS13 8NF.
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J HOWELL & DAUGHTERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS LICHFIELD & ALREWAS
NOW LICHFIELD & ALREWAS’S ONLY FAMILY OWNED FUNERAL DIRECTORS 24 hours a day
We are proud to be Lichfield's longest established family run funeral directors offering a wide range of choices to suit all requirements. Horse drawn, non religious ceremonies, floral tributes and memorials are but a few of the services we offer. Pre-paid funeral plans are also available.
For a truly personal service please call
01543 255776
Private Chapel of Rest 116 Netherstowe, Lichfield, Staffs. WS13 6TS
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01283 792923
36 Main Street, Alrewas, Burton Upon Trent. DE13 7AA
Coffee and Cake Fundraising Morning at The Barn
On Saturday 20th May a coffee and cake fundraising morning was held at The Barn at Lichfield in aid of breast cancer research.
Lucy Lawlor, G e n e r a l Manager / Director at The Barn at Lichfield commented: “In total we raised £360 which is great. We held the morning on behalf of a very loyal staff member’s mom who tragically became ill with breast cancer - Lisa Wall is a lady that has become close to all our hearts at The Barn. Rhiannon her daughter approached me about holding a coffee and cake morning and I was thrilled to be involved. The Barn take pride in helping others when we can. We will always strive to help and donate to any charity.”
Our bathroom fitters are professional. We are committed to providing an excellent customer experience – we are a small, totally independent company and as such our attention to detail is the same regardless of the size of project whether it’s a bathroom or wet room installation. We use materials and products sourced from the finest manufacturers around to ensure high quality and long-lasting bathrooms that are great value for money. We have access to an extensive selection with products for all budgets and tastes whether install or supply only. We are small enough to care but large enough to provide an exceptional service. We provide a 2 year guarantee on all labour, plus manufacturers’ guarantees as standard. Take a look through our extensive list of bathroom products at www.msquaredbathrooms.co.uk.
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Lichfield Arts’ L2F Festival
Philip Henry and Hannah Martin
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he fourth L2F Festival will run at Lichfield Cathedral and Lichfield Guildhall between October 13th and 15th. With everything from live music, street processions, arts, crafts, and writing workshops the weekend offers plenty to keep music fans entertained.
2017 also sees the launch of Lichfield Art’s songwriting competition, which will see short-listed songwriters mentored by leading singer-songwriter John Tams, and performing their songs in the Guildhall.
L2F will feature leading light Jon Boden and Wildfire Folk in Lichfield Cathedral on Friday 13th, and Philip Henry and Hannah Martin and Faustus in the Guildhall on Saturday 14th. Whilst original Julie Felix, Sean Lakeman, Kathryn Roberts, and Sheelanagig bring the event to a rousing finish on Sunday 15th October. Saturday and Sunday will also see a number of local performers taking part, in the streets of Lichfield, and in the Guildhall.
For further information about L2F visit www.lichfieldarts.org.uk. Ticket are available from the website, by phoning (01543) 262223, or by calling into the Lichfield Arts offices in Donegal House, Bore Street.
Jon Boden
Cubs create bee beach
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n 6th May Lichfield Somers Cub Pack came to Beacon Park to create a ‘bee beach’ to help solitary bees. Along with park volunteers, the cubs dug out a large bee silhouette in a stretch of grass next to Beacon Park’s poppy field, which was later filled with sand.
The idea for the bee beach came about following a visit from Andy Jukes, from Staffordshire Invertebrate Group, who advised the team at Beacon Park that unused golf bunkers are the ideal habitat for solitary bees. However, as the park’s golf course bunkers are all in use, the team decided to create a new one in a section of the park that is being developed into an area for wildlife. It is hoped the sand-filled cut-out of a giant bee will act as a nesting site for solitary bees who like both overgrown grass, earth and sand to nest in.
Tim Lock, Community Gardener at Beacon Park, commented: “It was a great morning session. The cubs all got stuck in and worked really hard and understood why we were working to create a bee friendly habitat. Bees have suffered a marked decline in the UK and so it’s important that we all do our bit to encourage more of them. This could be from planting native flowers that bloom at different times of the year in your garden to building a bee hotel.”
There are many ways you can get involved in your local parks. If you are interested in volunteering please contact Ruth Witczak on 01543 308869 or email parks@lichfielddc.gov.uk
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YOUR JOB HERE FOR £155!
Your next recruitment advertisement could be in 18,000 hand-delivered copies of Citylife in Lichfield for just £155 + VAT!
Get your job seen across the region and by thousands of online readers too.
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To book call Karen on 07791 635019
Rotary Supports Bereavement Charity:
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ecently, the Rotary Club of Lichfield donated £500 towards the running costs of CRUSE Bereavement Care, which operates in the south Staffordshire region and nationally offering free, confidential help to bereaved people. A cheque was presented by Tony Hill, President of the Lichfield Club to the CRUSE local Association Chairman Mike Gillard. To contact the charity locally email southstaffordshire@cruse.org.uk or go to www.cruse.org.uk
Tony Hadley is new festival patron
inging star and TV personality Tony Hadley is to become a Patron of Lichfield Festival. The Spandau Ballet frontman has agreed to lend his weight to the Midlands’ premier multi-arts festival which brings world-class music, arts and entertainment to the city. The announcement was made at a Festival preview held at the House of Commons, hosted by Lichfield Festival’s principal partner, London Midland, and introduced by Michael Fabricant MP. Tony commented: “This is the first arts charity I’ve been invited to support and I was delighted to be asked. For me, the importance of supporting the arts is in the impact that it has on individuals of all ages. I know Lichfield well through family connections and I’m really excited to see where my patronage of the Lichfield Festival will lead in the future.” He strengthens the Festival’s line-up of existing patrons: Lichfield MP Michael Fabricant; the celebrated former cellist, now
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Principal of Birmingham Conservatoire, Julian Lloyd Webber; and Russian conductor and artistic director of St Petersburg’s famous Mariinsky Theatre, Valery Gergiev. This year’s Lichfield Festival runs from 7th to 15th July with headline performers including
Rich Hall, Juliet Stevenson, Seth Lakeman, The Halle orchestra, Sir Tony Robinson, Dame Evelyn Glennie and the BBC Concert Orchestra. For more information visit www.lichfieldfestival.org
Image by Peter Blanchflower
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Clash of Knights!
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n Saturday June 17th the beautiful village of Mavesyn Ridware will be bringing to life a medieval story of battle, loss and love through the lives of three sisters. Set in the 14th century and based on true events, Clash of Knights is a play that has been written by students from the Hart School in Rugeley. Three young sisters are thrown into a feud between two families – how will they survive and thrive? This fascinating tale is an exploration of two families of the ‘Ridwares’ (meaning river folk), and will be performed by students from the Hart School. The whole village is involved, and the play begins in the beautiful church of St Nicholas in Mavesyn Ridware. Each scene then takes place in a different spot in and around the 12th century church and 14th century gatehouse. Actors and audience will process, accompanied by musicians, a short way to a different spot for each new scene as the story unfolds. There are two performances. The first is at 11am (preceded by a coffee morning at 10am to 10.45am) and at 2.30pm (followed by tea and cakes from 4pm to 5pm). Tickets are £10 each for adults and this includes refreshments. Children under 12 years are free (if accompanied by a parent/carer with a ticket). To book your ticket contact Sunny at clashofknights2017@gmail.com or go to their Facebook page ‘Church of St Nicholas Mavesyn’. There’s plenty of free parking available and the route is wheelchair accessible (there are ramps available to access the church). The event is in aid of St Nicholas’ church.
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A Window on the Past
Happy Father’s Day Dad
For many of us, some of our happiest childhood memories are of times spent with our wonderful Dads.This month, members of local history group ‘You’re Probably from Lichfield, Staffs if…’ share with us pictures of happy times with their own fathers. Citylife would like to wish all you dads out there a very Happy Father’s Day – we hope you get spoilt rotten!
1. Dave Gouldingay with daughter Lisa. Image courtesy Lisa Jones.
2. The late Terry Crisp with daughter Jemma in 1989. Image courtesy of Jemma Crisp. 3. Pete Averill with sons Rob and Jim in 1974. Image courtesy of Jim Averill.
4. Keith Jackson with daughter Sarah in 1977. Image courtesy of Sarah Jackson.
5. Will Parker with daughter Beth, son Zach and daughter Amelia. Image courtesy of Beth Parker.
6. Rob Whitelaw with daughter Chloe in 1999. Image courtesy of Rachel Whitelaw.
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7. Frank Gouldingay with daughter Denise. Image courtesy of Lisa Jones.
8. Richard Crisp with daughter Izzy. Image courtesy of Julie Crisp
For more stories, pictures and memories, visit the group’s Facebook page ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if…’ or go along to their next meeting on Tuesday 6th June and Tuesday 4th July from 7pm till 10pm at Lichfield Social Club, Purcell Avenue, Lichfield, WS13 7PH. For more information call 01543 416393 or 01543 268842. The group’s great displays of local photographs and memorabilia can be booked free of charge to appear at shows, nursing homes and clubs etc.
Please note, these images remain the copyright of the image owners as listed and Citylife in Lichfield Ltd and may not be reproduced, copied, or used in any way without permission.
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The perfect ‘Cottage Garden’ in
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June
By Byron Lewis
une signals the start of the cottage garden season for many people. If you’ve never tried growing cottage garden plants before, it’s an ideal time to start – with dozens of varieties now available at the garden centre. Traditionally, cottage gardens feature a range of easy to grow perennial plants such as Lupins, Foxgloves and Delphinium. These provide a large display of colour over a long period. Others to consider include some shorter growing perennials such as Salvia (with its pretty blue flowers), Astilbe (with its feathery foliage and bright spikes of flower), or hardy Geraniums and Geums (in pinks, whites and blues). The benefit of cottage garden plants is that they are relatively low maintenance and will return every year. Last winter, very few hardy plants like these were lost to the cold weather. Most will tolerate sunny or partially shaded positions and just need to be trimmed down at the end of the season to keep them bushy for the following season. Top Perennial Picks One of our most popular sellers are Acteas – the stunning purple and bronze foliage on these taller-growing plants make them ideal for contrast with brighter leaves when placed at the back of a border. They also produce a spike of white flowers and are very easy to grow. Hostas are another collectible and popular perennial with a large choice of leaf types. These do very well in wet soils and are ideal when planted at the edge of a pond or water-feature. Blue flowers spikes are produced during the summer months, but the main benefits of these is the large variation in leaf shape and colour available, plus the fact that they will tolerate shaded positions – keep an eye out for slugs though! Heucheras – There are now a growing band of ‘Heucheraholics’! People have fallen in love with these tough perennials which come in a huge range of leaf colours. They make a great contrast for other plants, are fully hardy and most will produce small flowers during the summer too. As with most flowering plants, feeding regularly (along with removing dead flowers) will extend the flowering period. With the taller types, using stakes to prevent long stems from snapping is always advisable. That’s all for now. Good Gardening!
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Byron Lewis runs Lichfield Garden Centre, at Curborough Countryside Centre in Lichfield. Tel: 01543 254306, visit the website at www.lichfieldgardencentre.co.uk or find them on Facebook and Twitter.
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Tamworth Street A street of independents - Tamworth Street is a great shopping destination with an array of independent shops and businesses including Framework - who bring all that's new in Art and Framing (and will soon will be celebrating their 30th anniversary); Lichfield Factory Specs who offer designer frames by D&G, Versace, Guess and Gucci (plus many more at factory prices); Tan who are offering a special Prom Package which includes a St Tropez Spray Tan, Noveau Cluster lashes and Shellac Gel fingers or toes (plus many other beauty treatments) and the superb Pizza by Goli restaurant (booking now for Father’s Day).
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Sunny Smiles at a Rainy Bower
Despite the lowering clouds, expectant crowds gathered to cheer on the Lichfield Greenhill Bower procession on Monday 29th May. Well done to all involved in creating this special event, to Miss Lichfield Greenhill Bower Queen - Harriet Chatwin and Bower Ambassador - Poppy Hughes, and to everyone who braved the downpours to celebrate Bower Day.
Picture by Robert Ings
Picture by Robert Ings
Pictures by Joss Musgrove Knibb
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Dam Street Dam Street is one of the most historic and picturesque streets in Lichfield, linking the city centre from Market Square to the Cathedral. Here you will find unique shops and businesses including Tales Press - a long established shop with everything the artist, knitter, sewer or crafter could wish for, including an excellent selection of knitting yarns; Dame Oliver’s - an Aladdin's cave of individual and stylish womenswear and jewellery plus a superb range of ladies' occasion hats and fascinators; The Little Curio Shop bursting at the seams with a fantastic mix of vintage, retro, antiques, crystals, silver and semiprecious jewellery (to name just a little of the ranges stocked) and Keeleys Solicitors - an established Lichfield firm with an experienced, expert specialist family law team. They deal with all legal matters including wills and probate, family and matrimonial, and residential property.
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Win Tickets to the TG Afternoon Tea
The City of Lichfield Townswomen's Guild are holding an Afternoon Tea in a beautiful marquee at The Bishop's Palace, The Close, Lichfield on Sunday 2nd July from 2pm till 5pm. All proceeds are to The Pathway Project. Tickets are ÂŁ20 each to include refreshments and entertainment. To win a ticket for you and your plus one to this great event, just answer the following question.
Where is the Bishop's Palace? A. The Close B. Market Street C. Stowe Street
To enter, send your name, answer (A, B or C) and contact details to Afternoon Tea Competition, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS or email citylifecompetitions@gmail.com by the competition closing date of Monday 26th June. For terms and conditions see page 65
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A Snap-Shot of Whittington History By Kate Gomez
The pretty 13th century church of St Giles can be found on Church Street, Whittington. St Giles is the patron saint of lepers and surely it’s no coincidence that there was a medieval hospital at nearby Freeford caring for those unfortunates suffering from the disease. Less readily explicable is the short-lived name change at the end of the nineteenth century when, according to the Whittington History Society, the church was known as St Matthew’s for around twenty years, before reverting back to St Giles in the 1890s.
More recycling can be found in the north and south windows of the chancel, where there are fragments of medieval painted glass thought to originate from the Benedictine Abbey at Burton. Presumably it was brought here following the dissolution but exactly why and how I don’t know.
The edge of Hopwas Woods as seen from the canal. There is a suggestion that stone for ecclesiastical purposes was quarried from an area of the woods given the tongue in cheek name of ‘The Devil’s Dressing Room’.
The only original part standing today is the base of the tower, with the nave being rebuilt in 1761 following a fire and the chancel added in the 1880s. The Jacobean oak pulpit, installed here in 1922, was originally donated to Lichfield Cathedral in 1671. One hundred and eighteen years later it was moved to St Peter’s at Elford but was discarded when that church was renovated in 1848 and lay disused in the stables of Elford Hall until a new home was found at St Giles. Apparently, at some point in this game of pass the pulpit, the Cathedral made enquiries about getting it back but obviously nothing ever came of this.
The church history guide, handed to me by two kind ladies who found me loitering outside and invited me in, condenses eight hundred (ish) years of history into four fascinating paragraphs. It tells how a church has stood on this site since the thirteenth century, built with red sandstone from nearby Hopwas Woods.
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Then, up on the balcony, there’s an organ, paid for by public subscription as a memorial to sixteen villagers killed in WW1. The brass plate at the front is inscribed with the names of the fallen and was made from a shell case brought from Mons battlefield. The church register also records other WW1 deaths, with several servicemen from the military hospital at the nearby barracks and one from Brocton Camp at Cannock Chase buried here in late 1918, their deaths possibly related to the Spanish Influenza pandemic of that year.
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A Snap-Shot of Whittington History - By Kate Gomez -Continued
One truly unexpected burial I found here is that of Thomas Spencer, co-founder of Marks and Spencer, who came to live in Whittington to pursue his love of farming after retiring from the partnership which began on 28th September 1894, when he invested £300 into a business owned by Michael Marks. The church hall is named after him, built with funding from the retailer in 1984. Just as a bit of background, Marks had started out working as a pedlar selling wares from a bag and from this he went on to open a market stalls in Leeds, which became known as the Penny Bazaar. The stall featured the poster ‘Don’t ask the price, it’s a penny’. The St Michaels brand was introduced by chairman Simon Marks to honour his father, who came to this country as an immigrant from Belarus with little money or English and founded a British institution. We can’t talk about St Giles without mentioning the hospice, established at the
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vicarage in 1983, when Reverend Paul Bothwell decided to do something to improve care for local people living with terminal illnesses. In its first year, there were 167 patients, today it cares and supports for around 500 people a week. Kate Gomez is the author of history blog Lichfield Lore, and one of the founding members of local history group Lichield Discovered. Kate’s book ‘The Little Book of Staffordshire’ is out now and is available on
Amazon and all good bookshops. Citylife is also delighted to also announce that Kate is joining our editorial team - bringing her enthusiasm for words and history to our magazines across the region.
Sources: http://www.stgileshospice.com/history.html http://www.whittingtonhistorysociety.org.uk/assets/whschurch-booklet-with-plan.pdf
The Taste
of Summer
Lichfield is a beautiful city and the perfect place to enjoy dining out this summer. Whatever you're looking for - from succulent steaks to fusion cuisine, there's a restaurant or bistro to suit the most discerning gastronaut! Take a walk with us here through some of the best places to dine this season...
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THE TASTE OF SUMMER Darwin’s at The George
Set in The George Hotel in Bird Street, Darwin’s offers delicious modern British food in a relaxed setting with exceptionally friendly service. Led by Head Chef Chris Deakin, who was previously Head Chef at the Royal Angus Hotel in Birmingham, the team of Chefs use only the best of fresh seasonal ingredients to create tasty and stylish dishes that everyone is sure to enjoy. The new summer menu includes a popular grill section along with tempting starters such as salmon and rocket terrine with citrus crème fraiche, main courses such as pork escalope with caramelised apples, mustard crushed potato and a cider, thyme jus, and a tempting selection of desserts including strawberry and vanilla panna cotta with blueberry dust, and caramelised banana slice with white chocolate and almond cream. Darwin’s is open every evening – the great value fixed price menu is served at any time Sunday - Thursday evenings and from 6 - 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays (2 courses: £14.50, 3 courses: £17). www.darwinslichfield.co.uk It’s Always Gin O’Clock at The George! If gin is a favourite of yours, pop in and check out the extensive gin menu at The George which features over 30 speciality gins, all served in a large balloon glass over ice with a speciality tonic and a garnish – the perfect pre dinner tipple!
The School House
Eat & Drink Fantastic food, great wines and a relaxed atmosphere, all with Lichfield's stunning countryside as a backdrop.
Our stunning Restaurant, M a n l e y ’ s Brasserie, serves Lunch, Afternoon Tea and Dinner either in the main restaurant, on our terrace overlooking Black Brook and our 11 acres or in one of our private dining rooms - the choice is yours. Celebrate at The School House With private dining rooms and a selection of menus, you can celebrate any occasion at The School House. We have six different rooms, ranging in seating for 16 people through to 150 people, and can cater for any get together - whether a birthday, anniversary, celebration of life or an event. Get Married at The School House Located in the heart of the Staffordshire countryside and a stones throw from Lichfield, The School House is the perfect wedding venue. With 11 acres of private grounds, a stunning church yards away, licensed for civil ceremonies, your choice of food and our Pavilion with seating for up to 150 guests, what more could you want? Come and celebrate Father's Day with The Jersey Boys 18th June. Treat Dad to a day out to remember with a meal in The Pavilion accompanied by favourites The Jersey Boys. Priced at £37.50. Call 01543 480009 to book now or email: enquiries@schoolhouse.co.uk
Pizza By Goli
Both Pizza By Goli restaurants, Lichfield and Sutton Coldfield, are traditional Italian restaurants
Limited seats available
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that serve all the classic Italian dishes - Pizza and Pasta along with fantastic Steak, Poultry and Fish dishes. Our culinary style emphasises flavourful and authentic Italian ingredients to create a menu that is both traditional and exciting. Our pizza bases are created daily from fresh dough made to our own recipe and all our pasta is freshly made too. We hope to see you soon! To book a table call 01543 250916. Bookings now being taken for Father’s Day.
The Pear Tree Crêperie
Situated within the centre of The Heart of the C o u n t r y Shopping Village, The Pear Tree Crêperie is a French Crêperie with lots of character and a relaxed informal atmosphere. From the moment you walk through the doors you will be welcomed by a friendly smile and service that is second to none. Our Crêpes are absolutely delicious with variations to tickle both the sweet and savoury palate. When it comes to sweet options you shouldn't leave until you've tried the classics such as Lemon and Sugar or a Banana Tree with fruit, ice cream, chocolate sauce and Chantilly cream. The savoury section will also make you drool with the likes of Chicken Tika or Mushroom Stroganoff... Prices from £2.80 to around £7.00. We are wheelchair friendly on the ground floor and everyone is very welcome.
McKenzie’s Restaurant
THE TASTE OF SUMMER
McKenzie’s Restaurant is the place of great steaks, great wines and great times. Our new ‘Grazing Menu’ brings family and friends together to enjoy sharing delicious food in beautiful surroundings. The Grazing Menu includes a great selection of summertime dishes that are ideal at this time of year. We are a family business, and members of the family from around the world have provided us with traditional, regional recipes that we have introduced to this menu. Choose three menu items from the ten on offer on the Grazing Menu for just £9.95 - then sit back and enjoy sharing the best things in life with your friends and family. McKenzie’s Restaurant can be found at The Corn Exchange, Conduit Street, Lichfield, WS13 6JU. Tel: 01543 417371
Qmin
Make Father's Day extra special this year by celebrating it at Lichfield’s leading Indian restaurant. Sample Qmin's new 2017 menu consisting of Indian and fusion cuisine served in perfect surroundings and by the most attentive staff. Established in Lichfield for 15 years, Qmin caters for the most discerning diners in a relaxed, modern and clean dining place. We feature popular and traditional Indian dishes alongside some contemporary and creative dishes. Why not unwind in our lounge with a large selection of premium gins and vodkas to choose from. Many of our customers and food critics view Qmin as one of the finest restaurants Lichfield has to offer. We invite you to experience our brand of Indian fusion cuisine and promise you a feast for your senses. We regularly hold themed tribute nights, why not come along to next one on July 14 2017, which promises to be the best so far!
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THE TASTE OF SUMMER
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THE TASTE OF SUMMER
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Moving to a new house with children? Turn it into an adventure!
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Children can sometimes find it difficult to deal with change and moving to a new house can be a huge step for them. However, if you take the time to prepare them for what to expect, listen to their concerns, and help them to see the move as an adventure, chances are they’ll come through with flying colours. Ten ways help ease moving home with the children: 1. Give your kids an understanding of what to expect - Young children might not have a good understanding of what the term “moving” really means. It’s important to make sure you visit the new property with them well in advance so you can point out all the positives before your moving day – Perhaps let them pick out their bedrooms to give them something to look forward to! 2. A little bit of bribery - Get them involved in the packing process, let your children help you pack some of their personal belongings. Even at a young age, children can sort their toys and help you wrap objects in tissue paper or bubble wrap. If you’ll be putting some things into storage, ask them what they would like to keep and what they don’t mind parting with for a while. Also, a little bit of bribery goes a long way, offer them a small bit of pocket money, to encourage them to get involved.
3. Friends forever - Moving away from friends can be a major concern. Why not buy your child an address book and ask their friends to write in their names and addresses so they don’t lose touch? 4. Time your move - Sometimes, circumstances dictate when you have to move. But, if you have a choice, try to time your move so that it occurs at a relatively calm period in your child’s life. School holidays may seem the perfect time but, bear in mind, the school routine can support your child as at least one aspect remains familiar. It also provides valuable, uninterrupted packing and unpacking time for you. 5. Pack a special bag of favourite toys and activities - Invest in a small backpack or overnight bag that will stay with your child through the entire move. Children can keep special items in this bag, in addition pack a few things that they can play with during the journey to their new home. 6. Label boxes of children’s things clearly - The day will come when you find yourself digging through boxes looking for the toy that they “absolutely have to play with right now”. Don’t just label boxes with the word ‘toys’. Include as much detail as possible about what is in the box and who it belongs to. 7. Make it fun! - Let your children do things you normally
The John German Lichfield team
wouldn’t on the special understanding it’s a ‘moving day’ treat. Why not provide a ‘treasure map’ for them to follow where ‘X‘ marks the spot? 8. Make it feel like home - Try to maintain the aspects of your life that are most important to your children. Stick as closely as you can to familiar daytime and bedtime routines. Ensure you hang or display some of your cherished and familiar personal items as soon as possible – this will help to make a new house feel like home, for both you and your children. 9. Don’t rush yourself - It’s hard to accomplish any task quickly with small children under foot. Give yourself lots of time to plan and execute your move and don’t be in a hurry to unpack. If you immediately start pulling everything out of boxes, you’ll have piles of stuff everywhere and the clutter will create unnecessary stress for everyone in the house. Take your time and unpack what you need slowly and gradually. 10. Who needs toys, when you have hundreds of boxes? - Once you’ve unpacked, if you can, keep the moving boxes for your children. They make wonderful tunnels and space rockets and will keep them entertained for hours!
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LOCAL NEWS Treasures and Relics Exhibition
Community groups in the Lichfield district have been working on an art and craft project for an exhibition in June. Group members have been using local history and art to consider present-day objects which have special meaning for us and our community. Their ‘Treasure Boxes’ will form a Treasures and Relics exhibition planned by Lichfield Mysteries Community Arts. Influenced by the concept of medieval reliquaries and Lichfield’s links with St Chad, the Treasure Boxes have been designed and made by participants belonging to The Pathway Project, Funclub and Lichfield and District Live at Home Scheme. Kate Gomez, from Lichfield Discovered and artist Celia Houghton have been working with the groups. This unique insight into people’s thoughts and ideas will be on view at Lichfield Library, The Friary, for ten days from June 12th to 21st. The exhibition in the Library Gallery is free and open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Further details on the website: www.lichfieldmysteries.co.uk.
Leomansley Open Gardens By David Short
Garden lovers will have the chance to visit what may be the longest cultivated garden in the area when the Friends of Christ Church stage a two-day event in Lichfield on Saturday and Sunday, 1st and 2nd July. The biennial Open Gardens event will feature 11 gardens in the historic district of Leomansley centred on the Walsall Road - Christ Church Lane area. One of the gardens dates back to the late 1800s and it is not only beautifully presented it is nearly 100 yards in length. Reflecting the development of Leomansley over many years, gardens vary from large Victorian style to modern and smaller cottage gardens. In addition to the gardens there will be a plant stall in the churchyard while refreshments will be on sale at 19, Christ Church Lane. Entry is by programme, priced £4, and available on the day from the church and from participating gardens. Parking will be available at Martin Heath Hall, adjacent to the church in Christ Church Lane. The Leomansley event is very compact with the furthest garden from the church only a few hundred yards away. Gardens will be open from 2pm to 6pm each day.
Kings Bromley Show
The Kings Bromley Show takes place this year on Saturday 22nd July from 9.30am until 5pm and its theme will be ‘All Creatures Great and Small’. Attractions include Horse Classes; Amusements including Funfair; Craft Fair with demonstrations; Food Fair; Non-commercial stands to inform and entertain; Refreshment and Trade stands; Children’s Races; Competitive marquee with displays of art, crafts, cookery, floral art, flowers, fruit, photography, vegetables, woodworking and young crafts; Treasured vehicle display and Ringside entertainment. There will be a great variety of animals to admire or pet, including horses; llamas; birds of prey; sheep; ponies; dogs and a wildlife display. Please visit the website for more up-to-date information and for a schedule to enter the competitive classes. Also available are a variety of refreshments including a Real Ale bar. Tickets are: Adults £6, Concessions £5, Under 16s £3, Family ticket (two adults and two under 16s) £15. Under 5s are free and there’s free parking. The Kings Bromley Show will take place at the Show Field, Crawley Lane, Kings Bromley, Staffordshire DE13 7JF www.kingsbromleyshow.co.uk
25 Years of Alrewas Open Gardens By Nicky Boucher-Giles
Alrewas Open Gardens was one of the first in the area, started after the then Vicar and his wife, Stanley and Audrey Morris, went to another garden event with the Church Warden and his wife, Brian and Janet Goodwin. They thought what a good idea it might be to try to organise one in our village, and Audrey spoke to me at a Book Club meeting as I was chairman of the Civic Society. Funnily enough I had been having the same thoughts myself, so off we went! This year, the gardens will be open on Saturday and Sunday 24th and 25th June from 1pm till 6pm. Each programme allows one person into the 25 venues we have open. This costs only £5 and is valid for both days. Accompanied children and service dogs are free. There is free parking around the village and at a designated carpark in the playing fields. This year the display in the beautiful church reflects 24 years of exhibitions. One of our gardens has been open for every single one of the 25 years. We try to have a couple of new gardens each year, but many of the old favourites are still open too. We have two
delicious tea venues open all afternoon and a BBQ at lunchtime both days. The Fiddle Folk will be playing in the vicarage garden and the Ryknild Rabble morris dancers will be dancing around the village on Sunday. We will have plant sales and other attractions to appeal to all ages. A really good day out for £5.
Armed Forces Fundraiser Steps Back to 1940s
On Saturday 24th June Specsavers, Lichfield will be hosting a charity fundraiser for Armed Forces Day. Pop in to the store to be transported back in time to the 1940s and sample homemade treats and cakes for a charitable donation. A raffle is also taking place with prizes donated by local businesses, including Afternoon Teas and meals at top Lichfield restaurants. Sharon Bratt, Store Manager of Specsavers commented: "The fundraiser is a chance for us all to come together and acknowledge the hard work and sacrifice of those that serve, as well as supporting Veterans and their continued role within the military community. Please join us in celebrating the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, who are busy working around the world promoting peace, providing security and fighting terrorism." for more information go to www.armedforcesday.org.uk
Museum Bowling Club Launch Special Fund Raising Event
Members of Lichfield Museum Bowling Club are organising the first event of its kind – a special competition between club members and representatives from the Armed Forces on Wednesday 20th September. The Annual President’s Charity Day will be extra special because it will include a team from the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre (DMRC) at Headley Court, Surrey; staff from DMS (Whittington); plus, serving and veteran soldiers with combat injuries. All money raised will be split between the DMRC Benevolent Fund and We Love Lichfield and organisers are calling on local businesses to support the event to raise money for these worthwhile causes. Organisers will be holding a lottery with all proceeds split between DMRC and We Love Lichfield and are calling on local businesses for their support. For more information and to sponsor the event, please call Bernard Derrick on 01543 410124
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Advertise your event in our what’s on guide for only £3 for up to 75 words max, please contact Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048 josscitylife@gmail.com. (Local Charities and advertisers may place what’s on listings free-of-charge).
Your Citylife What’s On in June
Wednesday 7th June Burntwood Folk Club Open Mic Night If you play, sing, tell folk stories or just like to listen, you are welcome at The Ashmole Club, Meerash Lane, Hammerwich from 8pm to 10.30pm. Admission to this acoustic event is free. For more information visit facebook.com/groups/burntwood folk
Friday 9th June 18th Century Garden Weekend At Erasmus Darwin House at 7.30pm. Join us as we continue to celebrate Lichfield’s links to the world-renowned Lunar Society, which shaped the world we live in, and helped spark the Industrial Revolution. Erasmus Darwin House kick off their 18th Century Gardens Weekend on Friday evening. Elaine Mitchell, Doctoral Researcher, from the University of Birmingham will deliver a fascinating talk on the global plant trade in the 18th Century. Tickets £5, places limited. Booking essential, 01543 306260, enquiries@erasmusdarwin.org Refreshments available. Please note this lecture is taking place at College Hall, Cathedral Close, WS13 7LD.
Saturday 10 & Sunday 11th June 18th Century Gardens Weekend at Erasmus Darwin House. 11am to 5pm. Explore the herb garden with an outdoor children’s trail, plant stalls, garden tours and nature-inspired crafts developed by Artist-inResidence Hannah Goulding. Refreshments available in our pop-up tea room. Free entry.
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Sunday 11th June Wedding Open Day At Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield T: 0121 308 3751 Come along between 11am and 3pm and see just how lovely your wedding day could be at Moor Hall! Admission free
Saturday 17th June Abacus Pre-School Open Day 10am-2pm. Frank Halfpenny Hall, George Lane, Lichfield, WS13 6DX Come along and find out about our fabulous pre-school for children from age 2 - meet the team, face painting, biscuit decorating or just have a play! Places available for September 2017. Call 01543 254168
Sunday 18th June Father’s Day At Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield T: 0121 308 3751 Treat your dad to a delicious Family Sunday Lunch in the Charter Suite, a carvery lunch in the Country Kitchen or lunch in the 2 AA Rosette Oak Room restaurant on Father’s Day. From £17.50 per person.
Sunday 18th June Father’s Day At The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield T: 01543 414822 and Darwin’s T: 01543 412766 Treat your dad to a delicious carvery lunch, a specially created Genteleman’s Afternoon Tea or an evening meal in Darwin’s restaurant. Carvery Lunch: £13.75, Afternoon Tea: £15, Darwin’s fixed price menu: £14.50 (2 courses), £17 (3 courses).
Thursday 22nd June Ascot Ladies’ Day Lunch At Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield T: 0121 308 3751
Celebrate the world’s most glamorous race with a superb three course lunch and live betting. £72.50 per person
Friday 23rd June Murder Mystery Evening At The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield T: 01543 414822 Put your investigative skills to the test and enjoy an evening of murder, mystery and intrigue. £33 per person or from £125 for two with an overnight stay
Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th June Shenstone Village Festival The Festival takes place over the weekend of 23rd-25th June. The full programme of events includes two concerts for which tickets are now available: On Friday 23rd Lichfield Gospel Choir will be performing in the Village Hall (call Bill on 01543 480652 or Pauline on 480535) and on Saturday 24th singer/songwriters Ruth & Ken Powell from Wales will appear at the Methodist Church (call Colin F. on 480618 or Colin G. on 480960). Tuesday 27th June Lichfield Arthritis Care Monthly Meeting "Are you living with Arthritis? If so, why not come along to the monthly meetings of the Lichfield Branch of Arthritis Care. We meet at The Community Room in the new Lichfield Fire Station on the fourth Tuesday of each month (except August & December) from 7pm to 9pm, and offer support, signposting and social activities. Transport is provided for a small contribution. Our next Meeting is on Tuesday 27 June 2017. For further information please contact 01543 263347 or 255698.
Saturday 8th to Sunday 9th July Help! I Can’t Cope! Dog course about stress in dogs with renowned dog lecturer Sheila Harper. At Little Haywood Village Hall 8th - 9th July 2017. Cost £125. 9.30am-5pm. Stress can have a major impact on your dog leading to issues like poor concentration, sound sensitivity or reactivity to other dogs, people or objects. This course will help you understand these issues and offer strategies to help them. www.sheilaharper.co.uk 01543 878989
Saturday 15th to Sunday 16th July Practical Help for Walking Dogs on Lead course with renowned canine lecturer Sheila Harper B ED, BA. At The Museum of Cannock Chase 15th-17th July. Cost £180. Pulling, lunging and barking on lead, or reactivity with other dogs and people, are some of the behaviours which society most frequently complains of. This 3day course will show you an approach that can lead to dramatic changes. Please contact us to book at www.sheilaharper.co.uk 01543 878989
Supported Walks on Cannock Chase with Sheila Harper Ltd. 4 walks costing £80.00 Suitable for owners who need help, or who would simply enjoy walking their dog with 1:1 guidance. Our walks will help with: Lead handling, help walking nicely, excitable or reactive dogs, easily distracted or disconnected dogs, dogs that need support around other dogs and people and dogs that pull or lunge on lead. Please contact us to book at www.sheilaharper.co.uk 01543 878989
Holiday Cottage
MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTORS WANTED
To Let Woolacombe North Devon
Earn extra money delivering magazines in various areas. Must be over 16
Details/Pictures:www.leesideholidays.com Email: johns@leeside.myzen.co.uk Tel: 0121 353 6613
Competition and Prize Draw Terms and Conditions 1. By entering the prize draw/competition, you agree to the terms and condition stated. 2.The closing date is stated on each individual prize draw or competition. 3.Where stated in the competition that a clearly stated competition partner will contact the entrants after the competition with news, stories and offers, entrant’s contact details will be passed to this competition partner for these marketing purposes only. As stated in the competition/prize draw, if you do not wish to receive marketing information from the competition partner stated, please add the words OPT OUT to your entry. For a copy of Citylife in Lichfield Ltd’s privacy policy please write to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. 4.By entering the competition/prize draw, entrants agree to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd using or publishing materials provided by the entrants in any of their publications and online. 5.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. 6.Only one entry per prize draw/competition, per reader. 7.Except in the case of cash prizes, no cash equivalent will be offered and the prize is non-transferable. 8.All prizes are subject to availability and the prize suppliers' terms and conditions. 9.No purchase necessary. 10.Prize draws and competitions are only open to UK residents aged 18 years or over (unless otherwise stated). 11.Competitions and prize draws may not be entered by any employee or individual associated with any employee, agent or third party of Citylife in Lichfield Ltd. 12.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/applicable competitions from all entries received.
Call Marie 07548 682576
13.Winners will be notified by Citylife in Lichfield Ltd up to 28 days after the closing date of the competition/prize draw by the contact details provided by the entrant. 14.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. 15.When the prize draw/competition winner has been selected, this decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 16.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. 17.Competitions may be amended or withdrawn at any time. 18.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 Ltd’s publications and online. 19.Unless otherwise stated, the promoter is Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. 20. 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. 21.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. 22.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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Darwin House in Bloom
T
he Herb Garden at Erasmus Darwin House is a tranquil haven in the heart of Lichfield's Cathedral Close. For the first time in the Museum’s history the gardens will be showcased in all their glory in June.
In 1999, Erasmus Darwin House, Beacon Street, opened as a public Museum after a £1.25 million redevelopment project was completed, which included the establishment of a restored Georgian herb garden which was faithfully recreated with plantings of the period. In addition, a relief sculpture of Erasmus Darwin and incised text paving slabs leading through the garden were created by the Midlands sculptor Denis Parsons. In 2011, Dr Darwin’s Medicinal Garden and Mrs Darwin’s Culinary Garden were also developed. Now, the Museum has long-term plans to rejuvenate and extend the garden as a valuable public space for relaxation, enjoyment and learning. The Herb Garden is a crucial part of the Museum’s story as Darwin broke new ground in his work as a doctor, taking up and extending new ideas. He cultivated a large piece of land on the edge of the city at Abnalls which Anna Seward described as a ‘a picturesque garden of Botanic science’, and later published his major work, ‘The Botanic Garden’, which promotes, revises and illustrates the classification scheme for plants. His Common Place Book reveals not only the herbs or natural remedies which he used in treatment, but, backed by his extensive correspondence with colleagues, the way he experimented with new remedies, like the 66
use of foxglove in treating heart and blood problems. As the Museum continues to explore Lichfield’s fascinating history and wider connections to the 18th Century, festivities kick off on Friday 9th June with a visit from Elaine Mitchell, doctoral researcher at the University of Birmingham. Mitchell will chart the fascinating history of the global plant trade in the Georgian era. Then on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th visitors will be spoilt for choice with garden tours, plant stalls, nature-inspired crafts and an outdoor wildlife trail for children, and grownups too. Erasmus Darwin House has been working hard over the past few months with Artist-in-Residence Hannah Golding to develop crafts and wildlife art inspired by the garden. Hannah recently made headlines on Staffordshire Day when her work was showcased in the lovingly restored boathouse at Stowe Pool. Her creations will be installed around the garden for children to locate as part of a new summer trail. There’ll be plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun, atmosphere and watch the world go by in the Museum’s tea room with the usual supply of homemade cakes, summery fruit punch and of course good old-fashioned tea. Entry to the House is free of charge but donations are welcome. Friday 9th June – Talk by Elaine Mitchell – 7.30pm at College Hall. £5 and booking essential on 01543 306260 or can be purchased at the Museum desk. Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th June – 11am – 5pm. Free entry.