Citylife in Lichfield May 2018 by Citylife In Lichfield

Inside... May 2018

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.

6 Try the new Spring Menu at The Strawberry Cabin Win a £30 voucher in our competition 22 What Can I Make? Jill Hayward explores fun craft activities for kids 36 Window on the Past Here comes the Greenhill Bower!

44 Objects of Desire Heirloom pieces to treasure forever

46 Tastes of the Season Simon Smith introduces two dishes that celebrate the season

CITYLIFE Contacts Editor - Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048

josscitylife@gmail.com

Advertising-

Steve Brown 07740 166497 stevebrowncitylife@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.

WIN a Voucher to Try the New Spring Menu at The Strawberry Cabin!

Set in the heart of the picturesque Staffordshire countryside, The Strawberry Cabin is surrounded by the fruit fields of Manor Farm at Hints. With a delicious range of food on offer and a warm welcome guaranteed from the Cabin Crew, it’s a great place to enjoy ‘a little taste of the countryside’, all year round. Head Chef, Simon Doveston has created a range of signature dishes and specials for our new spring menu. Simon is a well known and well-respected local chef, with a vast wealth of culinary experience from his time at the Dog Inn at Whittington, The Plough and Harrow at Shenstone and The Red Lion at Longdon, and of course, Doveston’s in Lichfield. Breakfast is served until 11.30, followed by lunch between 12pm and 3pm, with a traditional roast on Sundays. A wide range of hot and cold drinks, tempting cakes and scrumptious snacks are served throughout the day. For a real indulgence, take Afternoon Tea at the Strawberry Cabin, and enjoy a selection of both savoury and sweet treats, served together with ‘bottomless’ tea or coffee. The Strawberry Cabin is open from Tuesday to Saturday between 9am and 4.30pm and between 9.30am to 4.30pm on Sundays (closed Mondays). For more information, visit www.strawberrycabin.co.uk or call 01543 483680. The Strawberry Cabin are offering readers the chance for themselves and a loved one to try out the new spring menu. To be in with the chance of winning a £30 voucher to spend at The

ALLOHIUM ________

Strawberry Cabin, just unscramble the letters to find a Mediterranean cheese that’s wonderful grilled!

To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to ‘The Strawberry Cabin 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 Friday 25th May 2018. One entry per household. Multiple entries will be disqualified. Winner will not be offered a cash equivalent. Full terms and conditions on page 50. The Strawberry Cabin will contact the winner to arrange their prize, and may contact entrants with offers and news on special promotions. If you do not wish to be contacted please include the words ‘OPT OUT’ in your entry. Please note that you must be 18 or over to enter. Congratulations to J Stevens who has won a £30 voucher to try the new Spring Menu at The Strawberry Cabin, and who gave the answer Simon Doveston - correctly answering the April competition question 'Who is the Head Chef of The Strawberry Cabin'.

Looking back to the future with Vintage Hi-Fi By Richard Winterton of Richard Winterton Auctioneers

The popularity of vintage HiFi and Audio equipment is growing at quite a rate. Collectors are looking back towards the warmer tones of valve amplifiers and good quality turntables from an age gone by. Although access to music now comes at the click of a button, the sound quality, for some, doesn’t lend itself to some types of music hence the retrospective step into the warmer tones of the valve amp, vintage speakers and turntables.

Manufactures are also recognising the need to reintroduce this equipment, at quite a price, plus vinyl records to play on them. This is quite likely the reason why the vintage market

has picked up at quite a rate, forcing prices higher and higher at auction. At one of our recent auctions a Garrard 401 raised nearly £800 for a Deceased Estate and from the same House Clearance our team uncovered a H.W.Leak 12.1 Mono Block Valve Amplifier buried in the back of the garage of the same property. This attained the heady price of £2200 after buyer’s premium. It isn’t just Component (separates) or early to mid 20th century HIFi equipment that are attaining good prices. High quality equipment such as the 1990s Bang and Olufsen Overture with speakers and Beogram 3300 turntable with speakers sold very well also in our Collectors Sale attaining over £600 for the two lots. Our recent General Sales offered an unnamed Valve Amplifier for £300, a group of Sony HiFi equipment reached £310, a Monarch Valve Gramaphone got to over £100 and two distressed Dynatron Radiograms made over £50. It isn’t just the rare and expensive that can be consigned to Auction, we cater for all tastes and pockets. Other equipment including Bose, Dynatron, Bowers and Wilkins, Dansette etc were

discovered at a few of our Valuation Days at our Fradley Saleroom, and at Sutton Coldfield and Stafford . If you have some vintage Audio e q u i p m e n t shuffled away in a dusty corner, unloved and unused, bring it along to one of our Valuation Days. You may be sitting on a small fortune, or just a meal out for family and friends. You never know!

Wild City Early morning at Wolesley Bridge By Andrew Pointon

Fungi, on an oak tree by Trevor Buckle

Looking at you – Nuthatch by Graham Tomkins

In night-time gardens, on city bird-tables and throughout our beautiful countryside, there’s so much wildlife to be seen and enjoyed in Lichfield.

If you’ve been lucky enough to capture a snap of one of the birds, animals, invertebrates, amphibians, wild plants, fungi etc that make their homes with us, we’d like to see them. Every month we’ll print a selection of them here in our exploration of our wild city. To submit your images to us email them to josscitylife@gmail.com clearly marked Wild City and with your name and brief description.

Congratulations to an Award-Winning City

Lichfield Cathedral has recently been awarded ‘Visitor Attraction of the Year’ in the Staffordshire What’s On Magazine Reader Awards. The Cathedral beat off stiff competition from Alton Towers, Drayton Manor and the National Memorial Arboretum, and also secured the ‘Event of the Year’ award for the second year running for its imaginative Cathedral Illuminated event.

Thousands of What’s On readers voted in the annual Awards scheme to celebrate the region’s arts and events, Lichfield Cathedral's Executive Director, Simon Warburton, commented: “To win Visitor Attraction of the Year is a great honour and we are grateful to everyone who visited us and then took the time to vote for us; but to win two awards - and one two years running - is a testament to the hard work and imagination of the team here, I am truly proud of them.” Thousands of visitors watched the mesmerising ‘The Cathedral Illuminated, Star of Wonder, Star of Light’ produced and directed by the Cathedral's Artist in Residence, Peter Walker, which included artwork by Peter and composer, David Harper who collaborate as Luxmuralis. The event told the nativity story in sound and light around the Cathedral, on its west front and inside. It was the second year running that The Cathedral Illuminated, won the Best Event Award. Congratulations must also go to The Lichfield Garrick theatre, who won Best Theatre/Arts Venue in Staffordshire in the What’s On Readers’ Awards, also for the second year in a row. Karen Foster, the Lichfield Garrick’s Executive Director said: “As a small independent charity, the Lichfield Garrick theatre is delighted to have received the Best Theatre/Arts Venue award, especially as it reflects the enthusiasm and

support we receive from our community in Lichfield and beyond. We feel honoured that so many people took the time to nominate us, not only as the place for entertainment, but also as a welcoming place for youth theatre, community choirs and our highly acclaimed community musical. I would like to thank all the staff and volunteers at the Lichfield Garrick for making our visitors so welcome.” The Best Theatre/Arts Venue in Staffordshire award is the latest achievement gained by the theatre following on from winning the UK Theatre Award in both 2016 and 2017 as the West Midland’s Most Welcoming Theatre. Lichfield Festival is also celebrating after being awarded ‘Best Midlands Music Festival’. The Festival is one of the region’s leading cultural organisations, attracting 40,000 visitors annually with its celebration of music, theatre, dance, comedy, visual arts, family events and much more. Lichfield Festival was also named runner-up in the Best Festival in Staffordshire category. This year’s Festival runs from 4-14 July. Also winners are The Lichfield Food Festival, who scooped both the ‘Best Food Festival’ in Staffordshire and the ‘Best Festival’ in the West Midlands. Many congratulations to all involved.

Consequence of War Opens

A new, immersive art installation and exhibition in Lichfield Cathedral that explores the Consequence of War opened on Monday 16th April.

Consequence of War runs until 24th June, and includes works by artists Henry Moore, Graham Sutherland and Paul Nash; alongside a pocket Bible that saved a soldier’s life; Trench art; three Victoria Cross medals (and the stories of the extraordinary courage of those who were awarded them) and the voices of local pupils reading war poems. This immersive art installation is free to view and was created to mark the centenary of the Armistice. This latest exhibition takes the visitor on a journey through the Cathedral - telling the stories of the impact of war on the men who fought it, and the women and children living through it from 1918 to 2018, and includes memorials to the Staffordshire Regiment, including that of local soldier, Pte Gareth Bellingham, killed on duty in Afghanistan in 2011. It is the first time that Victoria Cross medals from the Staffordshire Regiment have been displayed together, and they form part of this exhibition that invites the visitor to contemplate how faith through art continues - and the social, domestic and economic impact war has on everyone’s life. Works by Henry Moore, Jacob Epstein, Graham Sutherland, Henri Gaudier-Brzeska and a sketch from the battlefield by Paul Nash are displayed together in The Chapter House. Alongside that, visitors can enter an Edwardian sitting room to stop a while and write a letter to a loved one serving at The Front. The six by nine metre suspended installation of red wool and needles entitled Yarn Front, represents the consequences of war on domestic life. Yarn Front is just one work by Lichfield Cathedral’s artist in residence Peter Walker. Peter, a sculptor, has three new pieces of work on display in Consequence of War, including the Pity of War maquette, which has been touring to raise awareness for all the innocent victims of war and will find a permanent home at the National Memorial Arboretum in 2020. Funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Consequence of War, is the vision of Lichfield Cathedral’s Dean, the Very Revd Adrian Dorber, and imagined and curated by Peter Walker. It is just one element of a year long programme of events and services for the Cathedral’s Imagine Peace campaign which will culminate in a peace woodland created from 1,918 trees around the Grade 1 listed Cathedral this summer. Find out more at www.lichfieldcathedral.org/peace

Image reproduced by permission of The Henry Moore Foundation

The best start in life at Spark

By Kate Gomez

park in Burntwood is a unique venture. Housed in a former children's centre, Spark deliver and host activities for families, particularly for children under five. Its ethos is to ensure every child gets the very best start in life. Set up by volunteers in 2015, the idea was to provide a hub of community activity and involvement and in the two years it has been open, Spark has gone from strength to strength. Activities range from support groups for postnatal depression, grandparent carers, single parents and young parents to health support such as a breastfeeding group. Also on the busy timetable are playgroups, reading groups, an afterschool tea club, plus a Dads’ and male

carers group They also host baby sensory, parenting courses, a child-minders' drop in, back to work help, language lessons, craft classes, midwives, health visitors, antenatal courses, beauty treatments and an autism support group. Spark has a free membership scheme meaning many families can attend the range of activities at no cost. The centre is a purpose-built facility with fully equipped children's room, baby area, community room, disabled bathrooms with toddler toilets and baby change, and an outside play area. Over 700 children have accessed services so far, with more and more families coming from outside the area to access the popular groups on offer. Over 40 volunteers are involved in the day to day running of the centre, providing activities and fundraising – the organisation is completely volunteer run and relies on fundraising to pay for the centre and its services. Spark has a steering group made up of centre users, activity leaders, local professionals and interested members of the community who guide the direction and growth of the organisation. Many mums start volunteering after benefitting from the centre and want to give something back. Spark’s volunteers include people with specific early years skills such as teachers, social workers, nursery nurses, family support workers but people have also come to volunteer as a way of building up

their skills and experience. One thing everyone has in common is a heart for helping their community. For more information and to see Spark’s timetable please visit www.sparkburntwood.co.uk. You can also find them on Facebook at sparkburntwood. The group is always on the lookout for any potential new volunteers who can offer help behind the scenes or in the centre and full support and training is provided. Spark also are very happy to come to talk to local groups about their journey. To get in touch, please email sparkburntwood@outlook.com. Images courtesy of Capture 24 photography

Winners of Michael's Menswear Viyella Prize Draw

he winners of the Michael's Menswear Viyella Prize Draw were drawn by the Mayor of Lichfield, Cllr Mrs Janice Greaves on Thursday 12th April. First Prize was won by L Edwards, who will receive a pair of Viyella Softtouch socks and a bottle of prosecco. The 29 runners up will also receive a pair of Viyella Softtouch socks.

Michael Mullarkey, Cllr Janice Greaves and Judith Worthington, Area Sales Manager of Viyella

Historic Dam Street Advertising Feature

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 Dame Oliverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s - an Aladdin's cave of individual and stylish womenswear and jewellery plus a superb range of ladies' occasion hats and fascinators; Keeleys Solicitors - an established Lichfield firm with an experienced, expert specialist family law team, dealing with all legal matters including wills and probate, family and matrimonial, and residential property; and Quercus of Quonians who stock a range of antiques, collectables and unique items of great interest, not to be found elsewhere. Also on Dam Street is Body Beautiful Day Spa and Salon, where you can treat yourself to one, or several, of their many treatments (see what's newly available in their advertisement within this feature).

The Yoga Collective have just opened in Quonians (just off Dam Street) and offer classes in Yoga, Pilates and Body Balance. For further details see the Yoga Collective advertisement in this feature.

Lichfield Arts in May

Quercus of Quonians Antiques & Collectables

Quality Antiques at Sensible Prices

2 Quonians, (off Dam Street) Lichfield WS13 7LB 07971 051042

The Ellipses

ichfield Arts will close their Spring 2018 season with three concerts at The Guildhall and The George Hotel. On Saturday May 5th, there will be a special night to raise funds for Fuse 2018 featuring bands that have played or will play Fuse's Momentum Stage. On the bill are, The Ellipses a four-piece rock band who played Fuse's Momentum Stage last year, Remi Harris Maxwell Avenue, a young up and coming local indie outfit who are playing on the Momentum Stage this year, and local favourites Kissin’ Kippers Fishin’ Club: old friends of Fuse who play an uncategorisable melange of electro, jazz, blues, folk and more. Tickets are £3. On Wednesday May 16th, Lichfield Arts, at The George Hotel, present Remi Harris - a guitarist from the UK with a unique style that draws inspiration from Gypsy Swing, Jazz, Blues, Rock, Electronic and World Music. Tickets are £12, £10.80 for friends of Lichfield Arts and £6 for under 16s. The Born Again Beatles On Friday 18th May The Guildhall will see the return of The Born Again Beatles - capturing that authentic 60s sound with the sound and energy of a live performance. Tickets are £12, £10.80 for Friends of Lichfield Arts and £6 for under 16s. The concerts all start at 8pm, with doors opening from 7.15pm. For further details, and to book tickets for all of these events visit www.lichfieldarts.org.uk, phone 01543 262223, or call into the Lichfield Arts Box Office in Donegal House on Bore Street.

Your Garden in May By Byron Lewis

s we enter the month of May, what a season us gardeners have already had so far. As I write this, the weather is still far from normal but there is still plenty of time for a long hot summer let’s hope! There are still lots of gardening tasks that can be done when we get a decent fine day. Most of you are only now seeing bulbs come into flower – enjoy the colour but don’t be in too much of a rush to dig them out and make space for summer flowers. Instead, simply remove the dead heads and allow the plants to die back naturally. As the stems go brown, the bulb stores food ready for next year. It’s also worth giving all your bulbs a feed now – a handful of Bonemeal around your clumps of bulbs will help to bulk them up, giving an even better show next spring. Tidy up, cut back and weed borders after the long winter we’ve had – apply fertiliser around shrubs and especially on established plants. Lots of people forget that older plants need food too. Use a liquid food which is faster acting – this will help the older plants thrive! Your lawn is probably ready for a cut (if you’ve not already done it!). Once cut, you can apply a weed and feed product to improve the grass. If you’ve got a moss problem, apply a specific Mosskiller product. This is stronger than the combined weed and feed product, so is more likely to be successful. Once applied, the iron content in the Mosskiller will work quickly – you can then rake out the dead moss a couple of weeks later. It’s also worth trying to improve the drainage in your lawn by aerating it – using a garden fork and putting lots of holes in it. Then fill in the holes with some sand, which will absorb any excess moisture and hopefully reduce future moss problems. Finally start looking to plant your hanging baskets and pots up with summer colour, but don’t be tempted to put them outside just yet, as they may suffer with cold winds or frost – they can safely be put outside towards the end of the month.The garden centre will be full of colourful patio plants so you’ll have a riot of colour this summer!

Byron Lewis runs Lichfield Garden Centre at Curborough Countryside Centre, Watery Lane, Lichfield. Tel : 01543 254306 or visit www.lichfieldgardencentre.co.uk.

AG Autos Rugeley OPEN DAY

AG Autos are holding an open day at their new premises on Lea Hall Enterprise Park on Sunday 27th May. The event is taking place between 10am and 4pm and everyone is invited to come along and join in the fun. Owner Tony Gofton will be showing people around the new workshop whilst outside there will be food and a disco. Tony also hopes the day will help to raise money for local good causes with both the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and Shropshire and Staffordshire Blood Bikes having stalls. There will also be a raffle with all proceeds split between these two organisations.

Wheelhouse Road, Rugeley WS15 1LH and opening times are 8.30am until 5.30pm from Monday to Friday and 8am until 1pm on Saturdays. To book in your car or motorbike, or to make an enquiry, give Tony a call on 01889 577952. You can also find AG Autos on Facebook.

Specialising in repair, maintenance and tyre replacement, AG Autos caters for all makes of bike at competitive prices. AG Autos also offers car servicing, maintenance and repairs, and MOTs can be arranged for customers. AG Autosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; new premises are located at Unit 23, Lea Hall Enterprise Park,

What can I make?

By Jill Hayward

ere, local artist Jill Hayward looks at a fun craft activity for children – a perfect way to while away a rainy afternoon with the kids.

Most parents and grandparents will find that they have a little stock of craft supplies lurking in a cupboard, or will have come home from shopping with a mixed pack of goodies, only to be faced with the question “what can I make?” These step-by-step, ten minute instructions are fun and easy to follow, and use only things you might find around the house and items usually included in store bought craft kits. You may need a bottle of PVA craft glue for securing ends and fixing.

Pipe Cleaner People

string/wool touches the bead and stops the pipe cleaner from going through the bead. Thread a small bead on for the neck and open the pipe cleaner to make the arms. Step 4

Step 2 Take the other pipe cleaner and put the loop over the neck to start to form the body and the legs. Take the right arm and bend it across the body to become the left aft arm, repeat with the right arm. Then take the left hand pipe cleaner and twist up and over the left arm and repeat with the right hand side. This fixes the arms and legs together.

Thread about four beads on each arm and then fold the end of the pipe cleaner to form a small loop for the hand, push the end back into the bead. A blob of glue can be used to secure the end inside the bead. Repeat for the other arm and do the same with seven beads to form each of the legs. Finally draw a funny face on the bead and trim the hair to finish your pipe cleaner person!

You will need:

Two bendy craft pipe cleaners. Round wooden beads * Pom pom String or wool

Step 1 Fold the two pipe cleaners in half. Cut a few pieces of string or wool in to pieces about 2cm long (no need to be too accurate!). Take one of the bent pipe cleaners and thread both ends into a large wooden bead. Place the cut string into the loop of the pipe cleaner and gently pull both ends until the

Step 3 Take a pom-pom from the kit and put it between the pipe cleaner legs. Hold it and twist the legs together to hold it firmly and form a tummy.

Jill Hayward is an artists and illustrator. For more information on her work go to her Facebook page Jilly Ink Illustrations. *Please remember that small beads can form a hazard to very small children, so this activity is not recommended for children under 3 and close supervision is recommended during the entire task. Please take extra care when using scissors. Craft activity is undertaken at your own risk.

Come and meet the ‘Dulux Dog’ Lewis here on Sat 5th May 12.30pm to 4.30pm

Advertising Feature

Tudor Row is an exclusive shopping arcade at the heart of the City of Lichfield. The row is situated behind the Tudor of Lichfield, a well-established, family owned restaurant business housed in one of the city's oldest buildings that dates back to 1510 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a wonderful setting to enjoy one of their superb lunches, an afternoon tea, or some delicious chocolates. On Tudor Row you will find shops, hairdressers, beauticians, a florist, an ice cream servery and other quality retailers. Erase UK offer exclusive beauty treatments at a fraction of the costs typically charged at other prestige treatment centres. Their great central location is easily accessible from all surrounding

Great Shopping, Great History

areas including Cannock, Walsall, Aldridge and Sutton Coldfield. Knitique have now expanded their product ranges to include Rico Design yarn and patterns and DMC embroidery products. They will be celebrating their 5th birthday on Saturday 7th July so keep an eye out for forthcoming details of their celebration event in store and on their Facebook page. Truly Creative Designs recently opened in Tudor Row, and have brought a little magic with them, including the Fiddlehead Fairy Garden collection (further details on page 27). Rosie's Boutique, who stock beautiful handbags and accessories will open soon in Tudor Row in May.

Truly Creative Designs

Jean Moses brings her flair for design and love of travelling to Lichfield with a selection of distinct and unique home and giftware, sourced from around the world. The growing range of unusual products includes root sculptures from Indonesia and homeware from the Netherlands, a beautiful selection of Christmas decorations and baubles from Finland, and an exclusive range of beautiful Luxa Lighting. Be enchanted by dancing fairies and woodland scenes - Truly Creative Designs has area exclusivity from Woodland Knoll, plus a choice for collectors from The Fiddlehead Fairy Garden. Long-time local, Jean is proud to be a part of the Lichfield shopping community. She and husband, Phil, have previously used their creativity to bring Christmas to shopping centres, hotels and homes throughout the area with individually designed dĂŠcor. In 2017 they were delighted to create festive magic in Lichfield, with a trail of 8ft nutcrackers throughout the city. Now they aim to bring creativity and delight to homeowners all year round with beautiful gifts. Truly Creative Designs is also the place to find personalised everlasting flower arrangements. Each display is designed and handmade by Jean. Choose from the selection on display, or order a bespoke arrangement â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perfect to create a lasting memory or tribute and suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Gift vouchers available

Reviewing The Importance of being Earnest

By Joss Musgrove Knibb

n Tuesday 27th March, I joined a large and expectant audience to see the Importance of Being Earnest at the Lichfield Garrick. Written by Oscar Wilde in 1895, the Importance of Being Earnest must be one of his most popular plays. Oscar Wilde is one of those playwrights who manage to combine rapier-like wit, and a keen eye for human frailty with a genuine affection for his characters. The language is beautifully crafted, and packed with so many puns that almost every line is a perfectly written joke in its own right. This necessitates a real ability with comic timing in the actors, and I was intrigued to see how the cast of the Original

Lichfield Festival 2018

aking place between 4 and 14 July, Lichfield Festival 2018 features speciallycreated shows, resident performers and new music, dance, theatre, literature and family events. The opening Cathedral event (Friday 5 July) is an exclusive show from World Champion Latin dancers and Strictly Come Dancing stars Neil and Katya Jones. Taking place at Lichfield Cathedral, Somnium – A Dancer’s Dream, features choreography, music and a company of internationally-renowned dancers. Headline performers include the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra conducted by Edward Gardner, BBC National Orchestra of Wales, restaurant critic and jazz musician Jay Rayner, comedians Tom Allen and Mark Steel, Fascinating Aida’s Liza Pulman and return visits from the hugely popular Malachites

Theatre Company’s production would handle it. Gwen Taylor (Lady Bracknell) gave her character a freshness that must surely be difficult when the formidable Lady Bracknell is probably the best known (and most quoted!) character in the play. Her comic timing was impeccable, and she managed to make the haughty, witty and domineering Bracknell deeply likable. Thomas Howes (Algernon Moncrieff) and Peter Sandys-Clarke (Jack Worthing) had the intimidating job of delivering Wilde’s mercurial banter, liberally peppered with jokes, and necessitating a real ability with both 19th century language and timing – and they did it superbly. Hannah Louise Howell (Gwendolen Fairfax) and Louise Coulthard (Cecily Cardew) are two of Wilde’s most beautifully drawn characters. Their portrayals of both a fashionable woman Theatre Company and Ballet Cymru. A theme of Extraordinary Women weaves throughout the Festival while community and family events include the ever-popular Festival Market and Britten’s children’s opera Noye’s Fludde coupled with Holst’s The Planets, preceded by a street parade of giant animal puppets. Among music highlights are BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year 2017 Kris Drever with Gaelic songstress Julie Fowlis; a celebration of women in jazz from the National Youth Jazz Orchestra and young trumpeter/composer Yazz Ahmed, and Afro-Cuban dance grooves from Son Yambu. Innovative vocal ensemble The Cardinall’s Musick perform pieces from the Renaissance to the present day, and a world premiere from composer Nico Muhly features in a concert by baroque ensemble La Nuova Musica and world-renowned soprano Lucy Crowe. There are six Artists in Residence – Danny Driver (piano), the Carducci Quartet, Matthew Hunt (clarinet) Joo Yeon Sir (violin) and Jessica Walker (voice) and Joseph Atkins (piano) – who perform individually and collectively across the whole Festival. The first Festival event (Thursday 4 July) is a poignant reminder of the contributions of ethnic minority soldiers during the First World War.

of the city, and a whip-sharp innocent of the country were beautifully handled, and they wrung every ounce of humour out of the script. Special mention must go to Susan Penhaligon, who managed to give the prim and proper Miss Prism a likeability and earthiness that was both new and delightful, and her scenes opposite Geoff Aymer (Rev. Canon Chausible) had the house in stitches. It takes a rare talent to be able to make simply sitting on a garden-swing laugh-out-loud funny. Simon Shackleton (Lane/Merriman) and Judith Rae (Moulton) brought a servant’s-eye view to these high-society shenanigans, and the audience loved them. With an interestingly ‘belle epoch’ set, and appropriately luxurious costume, this was a great performance of a great play.

Performed in an outdoor setting at the National Memorial Arboretum, Trench Brothers features MOBO-nominated jazz singer Cleveland Watkiss, professional performers and 120 local schoolchildren. The Festival Market with its stalls, crafts, entertainment and activities remains a popular day out. The opening Saturday also includes an Animal Parade of giant puppets, created by community groups, which will process through the city accompanied by music from local performers. The evening continues with a family concert of Britten’s Noye’s Fludde and Holst’s The Planets featuring local schoolchildren and Chetham’s School Symphony Orchestra. With film showings, a host of literary and other talks, the annual Peace Lecture given by Rev Lucy Willett, history walks, pop up performances in unusual spaces, and a daytime recital series introducing some of the best new talent around, Lichfield Festival remains as imaginative and extensive as ever. Lichfield Festival 2018 runs from 4-14 July. For full details visit www.lichfieldfestival.org. Festival Box Office 01543 412121

Lichfield’s shining silver star gallops to glory at auction By Adrian Rathbone, Hansons Auctioneers Director

ine silver is soaring to success at auction and Lichfield finds have proved to be worthy winners with collectors for example, a rare silver horse head stirrup cup, unearthed at a house near Lichfield, sold for more than double its estimate in This Victorian silver a Hansons Auctioneers stirrup cup sold for Fine Art sale. The £10,100 at auction. equestrian treasure proved Image by Hansons irresistible to bidders and made £10,100.The original estimate was £3,000-£5,000. Five phone lines at the saleroom were booked by bidders keen to acquire the Victorian cup, which dated back to 1882.

cup, filled with brandy or port, would be passed around riders at a meet. Another fine equestrian/silver find, which went under the hammer at Hansons in March was a Victorian silver sandwich box and glass liquor flask with plain silver collar and hinged cover. Made by James Dixon & Sons, of Sheffield, 1898, it comes in its original leather compartmented saddle bag. It sold for £620. Hansons Auctioneers offer free valuations of silver, antiques and collectables every Monday at The Hedgehog Inn, Stafford Road, Lichfield, WS13 8JB, from 10.30am-12.30pm. To find out more, please phone 01283 733988 or email service@hansonsauctioneeers.co.uk.

We were delighted but not altogether surprised to see this stirrup cup do so well. It was a particularly fine example, made by James Barclay Hennell of London. As well as being a highly collectable object among members of the equestrian community, it was beautiful in its own right. I would go as far to say that it is the best example of a stirrup cup I have seen outside a museum. A stirrup cup, also known as a parting cup, is traditionally used by the equestrian fraternity before a hunt. Shaped like the head of a horse, the

Hunter’s silver sandwich box and saddlebag. Image by Hansons

The Mayor of Lichfield Cllr Mrs Janice Greaves planting an almond tree

Dovehouse Community Gardens

n the Autumn of 2017 a group of local residents formed a Committee to revitalise a small piece of disused land at Dovehouse Fields off the Birmingham Road. They saw the potential to convert a piece of scrub, uncultivated since 2012, into a useful amenity for the local community to enjoy. The site was officially opened on Friday 6th April 2018 by the Mayor, Cllr Mrs. Janice Greaves, who planted an almond tree to mark the occasion. The launch evening was attended by many residents and City Councillors who were all keen to get involved. The aim of the garden is to have small plots for individuals to rent alongside shared community growing spaces and ultimately shelters to extend the growing season and for educational workshops. Nick Burton, the Open Spaces Officer for Lichfield City Council, commented: "This is a new and exciting project for Lichfield that has been created in consultation with interested local residents. A lot of work has been done already but there is still much more to be done in order to

fully develop the project. A Biodiversity grant from South Staffs Water has enabled the site to obtain water, which is a vital first step. We look forward to a bright future for this previously disused site.” The Committee thanks the City Council for its support and Staffordshire County Councillor Colin Greatorex for his support at both County and City level. The Committee would also like to thank Tippers, Lichfield Garden Centre, Lichfield Country Markets and Forest Harvest. Tim Perks, chair of Dovehouse Community Gardens, added: "When we first went on to the site it was totally overgrown. Volunteers have worked hard to get the site to where it is now. There are still many challenges to overcome but there is a strong team working to make the project a success. Quite a few plots have been taken already although there are still some left and we welcome anyone who wants to get involved in any way." If you would like to find out more email dovehousecommunitygarden@yahoo.com

Congratulations to Anthony John Salons

ichfield hair destination Anthony John Salons has been voted as one of the best in the UK. The Heart Of The Country based business were UK finalists in The National Hairdressers' Federation Business awards for their 'customer experience', their barn conversion salon, the staff, the experience and the great styles created. Salon Owner Tony Walmsley commented: "It’s a testament to the great team we have, who constantly strive to deliver their very best. Nominated and then being a national finalist for the ‘best customer experience’ is important because that’s what we are here for... to create perfect hair whilst our clients enjoy some ‘me-time’. Spending up to half a day having your hair done must be an experience and that’s what we pride ourselves on. We want our clients to look forward to the time they spend with us, as soon as you walk into our salon we want our clients to feel relaxed, pampered and care free.”

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The Month in Pictures

April

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

Lichfield District Scouts St George's Day at Lichfield Cathedral

Poetry Reading Group at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum

Easter Egg Tree at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum Images by Jonathan Oates www.jonotourism.co.uk

Start of the Cathedral Castle run

Start of the Sheriff's Darwin Walk in Beacon Park

Cats Protection Event at Lichfield Guildhall

Town Crier at the Lichfield Guildhall Wedding Fayre

Lichfield District Scouts St George's Day Parade

Opening of the Dovehouse Fields Community Gardens

Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity Field Artillery Gun Lift

The first Lichfield Grub Club on Market Square

Wildfire Folk group perform on Bore Street

Creating the Perfect Smile

By Matt Burnell BSc Hons Dip CDT RCS

ecently, I was delighted to be appointed CEO of The British Association of Clinical Dental Technology (BACDT). BACDT is the leading professional association that looks to sustain and advance the ethical practice of clinical dental technology – a term that covers cosmetic dentistry and the creation of dentures etc. Established in 2009, BACDT is a leading voice in Clinical Dental Technology, with members all over the UK. All our members are checked to ensure they meet all General Dental Council Regulations and the BACDT Charter. My own practice, Lichfield Smiles, has been an award winner in the BACDT awards for the last three years, so we know how vital and progressive the work that this brilliant organisation undertakes is. I’m deeply honoured to be offered the role of CEO.

The BACDT Charter, that all members sign up to, holds them to a very high standard. We undertake to provide the highest quality service; clear descriptions of products, services and prices, keep up to date with and within all applicable legislation and technological advancements, and generally make sure that our customers have the best experience, and receive the best service possible. Part of the work undertaken by the BACDT, Matt Burnell BSc Hons is to make people aware that Dip CDT RCS you do not necessarily need to visit a dentist, before you look at replacing an old or poorly fitting denture. If you are unhappy with your denture, or are looking at having your first denture, just give Lichfield Smiles a call on 01543 415 288 for a free no-obligation consultation. We can talk you through your options, helping you to transform your quality of life, and giving you the great smile you deserve. There’s never any pressure to buy, and we make sure that your consultation is an enjoyable experience.

Pathway Project Patrons’ event The Pathway Project held its second Patrons’ event on Friday 13th April to say thank you to those who have signed up to be a Pathway Patron.

he event, which was held at The George Hotel, featured Guest Speaker Lesley Smith - M.Phil, M.Univ.(Hons.), F.S.A. (Scot.). Lesley is a medical historian, Tudor expert and TV personality, and is also the Curator of Tutbury Castle.

In addition, new Honorary Patrons were announced – The Lichfield Mercury and Journalist and Radio and TV Presenter Joanne Malin. Joanne commented: “Pathway’s work is so important to children and families, and we all need to get behind them. The Pathway Patrons are to be commended for doing just that, for helping Pathway turn victims into survivors.” The Pathway Project is a charity working to turn victims of domestic and sexual abuse into survivors. Pathway works in Lichfield District and Tamworth Borough, and since October 2017 East Staffs Borough. Getting funding for the services, refuges and outreach work is getting harder, but the charity isn’t sitting back. Last October it launched the Pathway Patrons. Patrons can donate at different levels and for specific services. Platinum donors commit to an annual contribution of £500, with these funds going to support a family in the Refuge. Gold Patrons commit to £200 with these funds going to children’s services, and silver donors give £100 for counselling services. Bronze donors who do not wish to commit annually, may simply give a one-off donation. The Honorary Patrons are Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Mr Ian Dudson, CBE KStJ; the Right Reverend Dr Micheal Ipgrave OBE; Angela Burns, Chief Executive Webb Hotel Group Ltd; Joss Musgrove Knibb, Group Editor & Director of Citylife in Lichfield Ltd; The Lichfield Mercury and Joanne Malin. 34

For more information about becoming a Patron, email patrons@pathway-project.co.uk or call 01543 442610.

TV Presenter Joanne Malin

Premier Transfer Services - for when image is everything!

Premier Transfer Services is a family run, privately owned business, providing transport for all areas of Staffordshire, the UK and Ireland. They are a leading provider of chauffeur driven executive cars and minibuses for the more selective traveller. Their fleet of vehicles is luxury gold class standard and driven by professional, licensed chauffeurs, but costs are kept at very affordable prices. Keith Warner, owner of Premier Transfer Services and its sister companies, the Image Luxury Cars company and Wightwick Transfers, have over 20 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in luxury travel. Premier specialise in Corporate Hospitality offering a door to door service with professional chauffeurs, who know how to avoid traffic delays and the points closest to your event where they will drop you off and pick you up. Premier Transfer Services are ideal for airport transfers and seaport transfers. They will keep you up to date with your transport details to make sure you arrive for your departure in stress-free comfort. They will also check your route for delays, and will transport you safely and smoothly to the departure terminal. Premier Transfer Services are fully licensed by South Staffordshire Council as a Private Hire Vehicle Operator. All drivers hold, regularly renewed, Private Hire Licences. All vehicles undergo rigorous inspections and are regularly serviced by the relevant main dealer. They will transport you to your destination in either a Mercedes R class, Jaguar XJ or an executive Renault Traffic. Premier also provide chauffeur driven wedding transportation for your special day. Their modern Jaguar XJ

in a stunning cashmere gold with leather interior is ideal for the main bridal party. Premier also specialise in: Luxury travel to sporting events such as Royal Ascot, and the Henley Regatta and luxury travel to special occasions and days and evenings out. Why not hire the vehicle and Chauffeur for the whole day, and have a vehicle waiting for you to take you wherever you want? For a quote or a no obligation chat call 07860 622545, 01902 566500 or email enquiries@premiertransferservices.co.uk Premier Transfer Services for when image is everything.

A Window on the Past Here Comes the Greenhill Bower!

Thank you to the local history group ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if…’ for these evocative pictures of the Lichfield Greenhill Bower over the last 121 years!

1. Bower Parade going past the old Smithfield Hotel in 1897 2. Lichfield Brewery float on St John Street in 1903

3. Crowds on Tamworth Street in 1977. Image courtesy of Robert Yardley 4. Boxing-themed float on Bore Street in the 1930s

5. Bower Queen Edna Birch in 1947

6. ‘Wash Day’ themed float on Bore Street in the 1930s

7. Village Queens of the Bower in 1936. Image courtesy of Glynn Ireland (whose Mother is pictured in the image).

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 8th May at Lichfield Social Club, Purcell Avenue, Lichfield, WS13 7PH from 7pm till 10pm. 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, clubs etc.

Council seeks sponsors for Lichfield Proms

ichfield Proms in Beacon Park is a free event for the whole family, and the council is urging local businesses to come forward to help raise the money needed to stage the end-of-summer concert. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event is on Saturday 1st September, when thousands of locals will gather in Beacon Park for the evening of entertainment which is set to feature The British Police Symphony Orchestra and the City of Lichfield Concert Band, along with classically trained singers and a fireworks finale. Sponsoring proms gives companies an opportunity to promote their businesses to thousands of local people and visitors, while supporting a much-loved community event. If you are interested in sponsoring Lichfield Proms, and for more information please email proms@lichfielddc.gov.uk or call 01543 308866. To find out more about Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park, visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/lichfieldproms

Beacon Park poppy field

escently the friends of Lichfield Historic Parks and Neaten and Natter volunteer group joined the council’s parks team to sow the poppy seed into Beacon Park’s poppy field for the final time, to commemorate the end of the First World War. The field is next to where the Peace Woodland will be created from this November, in partnership with Lichfield Cathedral. The poppy field has been grown since March 2014 to commemorate the First World War, and it has produced fantastic displays each summer. Timothy Lock, Community Gardener for Lichfield District Council, commented: “A big thank you to all our volunteers who dedicated their time to help us sow the poppy field. I would also like to thank Morrison’s Lichfield

for supplying the refreshments for our volunteers on the day. We’re all now looking forward to seeing the poppies bloom from June onwards.” Not only is the area a beautiful, peaceful place for people to visit and admire the poppies and wildflowers, it is also a particular hotspot for pollinators. During the butterfly and bee walks that took place over the spring and summer of 2017, many species of bees and butterflies, including Small Tortoiseshell, Speckled Wood and Red Admiral, were spotted. All are welcome to help the parks team survey the butterflies and bees in 2018. The walks take place on the first Thursday of the month (weather permitting) from 10am to 12

Canal Trust Volunteers to Run Lichfield 10K

upporters of Lichfield’s canal restoration trust will be running in the Lichfield 10k later this year. Two of the five volunteers that will be competing are often to be found working on the Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust’s sites at Darnford Moors, Tamworth Road, Fosseway Heath and Summerhill. They are now also in training for the run, which will be held on Sunday September 9th. One of the LHCRT team is James Millington, who has been cross country running for 25 years and competing in triathlons for the last

seven years. James, from Chorley, is the current Birmingham Olympic triathlon distance age group champion and holds a world ranking in half ironman distance having previously been world-ranked for the full ironman distance.

The son of LHCRT site manager Hugh, James is fundraising for the Trust’s £1million Tunnel Vision appeal, set up to pay for an essential canal tunnel under the Cross City railway line. He commented: “This is such an important project for the Trust. If the tunnel isn’t built at the same time as a railway bridge over the planned Southern Bypass extension, it

noon and start from Beacon Park’s Community Garden. For more information, contact Ruth Piddington on 01543 308869.

will be so much more difficult and expensive to build it after the road is in place. I want to see the whole canal restored because it’s an important wildlife corridor and this is a vital part.” Also running are volunteers Chris and Harry plus supporters Scott and Mark. To sponsor James please visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jamesmillington3

French Choir to Visit the City

he Palace Singers are playing host to a twenty-two strong choir visiting Lichfield from France in May. Les Choeurs dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Artichaut are a community choir from the Lot-et-Garonne region in the south west of France. A family connection has led to the development of a friendship between the two choirs. Last May, Sara Wolczek, (Palace Singers) and her brother John Hunter (Les Artichaut) organised an exchange visit to France over four days. Fifteen of the choir members were superbly hosted by members of Les Artichaut in their homes. Both choirs performed two concerts together held in the beautiful hill-side villages of Montflaquin and Serignac. This May the Palace Singers are returning the compliment; the French choir arrive on 10th May for four days based in Lichfield. There are two concerts planned presenting a variety of French, English and international music. Concerts take place on May 11th at 7.30pm, St Giles Church, Church Street, Whittington and May 12th at 7pm, Methodist Church, Tamworth Street, Lichfield WS13 6JJ. Entry is free but a small donation toward the concert costs will be most welcome.

School House Competition Winner

Congratulations to R Harrison who gave the correct answer of Panna Cotta and solved the anagram in the April issue.

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Four city art projects scoop funding

ichfield District Council, in partnership with Swinfen Broun Charitable Trust, has awarded £134,000 to four Lichfield City public art projects. Towards the end of 2017, Lichfield District Council and Swinfen Broun Charitable Trust

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teamed up to launch the Lichfield City Art Fund. The fund was set up to reinvest the proceeds of the sale of the statue Donna Che Trattiene il Tempo into new art projects. The philanthropist Swinfen Broun had bequeathed the statue, known locally as Old Father Time, to the people of Lichfield. However, after a permanent home for the statue could not be found, the council auctioned it off in 2008 with the intention to use the money on new art projects. After considering all the applications received, four applicants have been successful in bidding for a share of the Lichfield City Art Fund. The successful applicants are: Lichfield Cathedral’s project to create a bronze sculpture of St Chad (awarded £50,000); St Mary’s in the Market Square who have been awarded £44,979 to create a performance space for community groups to use; Erasmus Darwin House who will receive

£25,050 to create a sculpture based on the work of Erasmus Darwin as well as a project to help the local community create smaller sculptures, and Lichfield Festival’s project to create a Puppet Parade which has been awarded £13,752. The council invited the successful applicants to a small reception at District Council House on Thursday 29 March to award the funding.

Tastes of the Season

Here, Chef Simon Smith introduces two fresh and vibrant dishes that are the perfect way to celebrate the season.*

Tomato and shallot tarte tatin with goat’s cheese

You will need: 230g (8oz) 3 1 floz 1 57g (2oz) 1 57g (2oz) 1x 1x

Cherry tomatoes Shallots Red wine vinegar Sprig rosemary Sugar Clove garlic Butter Sheet puff pastry Goat (cheese) log

Method Put the sugar into a hot pan and cook until golden. Do not stir and remember it’s very hot**. Put the cherry tomatoes and diced shallots in with the garlic and cook for one minute. Add the vinegar, chopped rosemary and butter and cover with the rolled puff pastry. Cook at 180c for 10-15 minutes. When you take it out of the oven drain off the excess liquid, turn out on to a plate and pour the liquid back over. Slice the goat log and place around the edges to melt gently and top with fresh basil.

Pan fried asparagus with a watercress risotto You will need: 100g (3.5oz) Butter 1 Small onion (finely diced) 200g (7oz) Arborio rice 1 Glass of white wine 400g (14oz) Asparagus 1 ltr Hot chicken stock 2 Lemons, zested and juiced 2 tbsp Watercress puree 3 tbsp Grated or shaved Parmesan 1 tbsp Mascarpone Method Melt half the butter in a pan and add the finely diced onion, sweat for a minute until the onion becomes translucent. Add the rice and stir until all grains are covered with butter. Add the white wine and reduce by half. Add the chicken stock and stir, cover with a lid and cook slowly for 10-15 minutes. Remove the lid and add the lemon zest, mascarpone and watercress purée and stir together. Check the seasoning and add the parmesan, serve in a bowl and top with the cooked asparagus. Garnish with shaved asparagus and watercress leaves or a parmesan crisp. While the risotto is cooking take the heads of asparagus and gently panfry in the remaining half of the butter. Season to taste. Simon Smith (who many Lichfieldians may know from his much-missed restaurant Thrales) runs a catering business from his production kitchen in Lichfield, providing bespoke private dinners plus wedding,

corporate and event catering. Simon also undertakes cookery demonstrations around the country and with local businesses such as Arthur Price and Tippers. During the summer months Simon works for private clients both on superyachts and in villas in St Tropez and Europe. Simon commented: “This work allows me to travel widely and bring back new recipes and see wonderful markets and produce. That being said I am still very keen to use our fabulous local ingredients from Staffordshire. As Spring is upon us, here are two recipes - one using New Farm asparagus and the other using goat’s cheese from Innes Farm in Tamworth.” If you are looking for catering or a day of cookery skills go to www.simonsmith-chef.com

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

Promote your event in our What’s On guide and reach over 18,000 homes and businesses for only £15 for businesses and £5 for charities. Entries must be 50 words maximum. To book contact Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048 josscitylife@gmail.com (businesses who are already advertising in the relevant issue may place additional what’s on listings free-of-charge). Please clearly mark your email ‘What’s On Lichfield'. What’s on in May

Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays Italian Language Classes In Lichfield on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. All levels. Venue: The Kings Head function room in Lichfield. Tel Emma: 07962303937 edulinkeurope.org FB Talktastique. One and a half hour session. £9.50 per class. Friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Also French and German tuition by a qualified languages teacher.

Friday 4th May Staffordshire Archaeological and Historical Society Meeting and Talk Meetings held at The Guildhall, Bore Street, Lichfield. 7.30 pm: Stonehenge and the Blue Stones, talk by Dr Rob Ixer. Visitors welcome, £3 at the door. Refreshments available from 7pm. For more info call 01543 416144. Saturday 5th May to Monday 7th May. Festival of Artists Free exhibition of over 50 talented local artists. 10am till 4pm. Curborough Hall Farm, Watery Lane, Lichfield, WS13 8ES

Saturday 5th May Café International - International Street Food and Drink Festival 10am to 8pm, Beacon Park, Lichfield. This year Lichfield hosts Café International; a celebration of International Street Food and Drinks in the beautiful surroundings of Beacon Park. Café International will feature the most “delicious and wonderful” flavours from around the world, with the theatrics of street

cooking. Three large wonderful and covered seating areas will form the fully stocked main bar with two specialist Gin and Prosecco bars.

Saturday May 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th. Erasmus Darwin House Cellar Tour 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm. £2. Our Cellars are extremely interesting as they can only be accessed by a guided tour, these offer an insight into other aspects of the house from medieval times up to the life of Erasmus Darwin himself, and it is believed it may have been where bodies were stored in readiness for dissection-so there is the spooky factor rolled in too. Erasmus Darwin House Beacon Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 7AD Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th May Lichfield Home & Garden Festival Floral demonstrations, local gardening experts showcasing ideas and tips for the Summer months in your garden, food & drink stalls, live music, chainsaw sculptures & children’s activities. Free entry. Taking place along City centre Streets and Three Spires Shopping Centre. 9am to 5pm Saturday and 10am to 4pm Sunday. All main demos run from 10am until 4pm each day.

Sunday 13th May Wedding Open Day Come along to The George’s Wedding Open Day between 12 and 3pm on Sunday 13th May and see exactly how lovely your wedding day could be.The magnificent Garrick Suite will be fully

First Serving of Lichfield Soup!

he first Lichfield Soup took place on Saturday 7th April. Lichfield Soup is a community event where the public gets the opportunity to enjoy great conversation and delicious home-made soup and roll for £5. These five pounds are then gathered together to form a micro-grant, which is pitched for on the day by three local groups or charities. The winners of the first Lichfield Soup were were Explorer Scouts from the Lichfield District Scout Association, who are putting the money towards a visit to an International Jamboree in America. If your group might be interested in pitching at the next Lichfield Soup, or if you have an idea to make Lichfield a better place that just needs a little seed money, get in touch with Lichfield Soup via their Facebook page. Events take place at Curborough Community Centre and the next date will be announced soon.

dressed for a wedding breakfast with crisp linen, bright cutlery and gleaming glassware, and you will be able to view the bedrooms and chat to our experienced wedding coordinators who can advise on every aspect of your very special day. Admission free, by ticket only. Please visit www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk to pre-register for your free tickets or call 01543 414822. The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield, WS13 6PR.

Thursday May 17th Museums at Night 6pm - 9pm. As part of the national Museums at Night programme, Erasmus Darwin House will open its doors to visitors after hours. This is a wonderful chance to see this magnificent Georgian house in all its after-dark glory. Costumed guides will be available in the house and cellar to provide information on Erasmus Darwin and the house. Refreshments will be available in the Lunar room Adult £3 Children £1.50 Booking Recommended. Erasmus Darwin House Beacon Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 7AD

Wednesday 23rd May Stonnall Conservation Society Welcomes back Ken Knowles, the Lichfield Town Crier. With his inimitable sense of humour and wealth of stories related to his role, he will be giving a talk entitled ‘Ken and his Patriotic Hats’. Each hat has anecdotes and monologues to reflect his career in amateur dramatics. Please join us at 7.30pm at the Youth and Community Centre, Main Street,

Stonnall WS9 9EE. www.shenstonestaffs.gov.uk/scs/

Thursday 24th May Lichfield Civic Society Meeting and Talk 7.45pm. Sir Benjamin Stone, the celebrated 19th century photographer of Birmingham. Speaker: Stephen Roberts. The meeting, in conjunction with the Historic Society, is in The Lichfield Room, Wade Street Church Community Hall, Frog Lane, Lichfield, WS13 6HS. Admission is free to members and students. Nonmembers are always welcome, £3 at the door.

Tuesday May 29th Lunar Lecture From Doctor Johnson to Twerking by Tom Devlin. 7:30 pm - 9pm. College Hall, 21 The Close, Lichfield, WS13 7LD. From Johnson to Twerking: Stability and Shift in the English Language. Join us for this interesting lecture conducted by Tom Devlin from the University of Derby. Venue College Hall, Cathedral Close. £5 per person, booking essential. 01543 306260. Friday 8th June Fabulous Absolutely Join The George for a fabulous three course meal served by Patsy, Eddie and Saffy with a hearty potion of mayhem thrown in for good measure. £38 per person. Visit www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk for more details and the menu. Call 01543 414822 to book. The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield, WS13 6PR.

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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

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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. 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.