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Inside... October 2018
Welcome to CITYLIFE
Welcome to CITYLIFE in Rugeley, a monthly magazine bringing you our pick of the area’s news, events and stories. Each month CITYLIFE in Rugeley is delivered to 11,000 businesses and homes in Rugeley, Ravenhill, Etchinghill, Slitting Mill, Armitage, Handsacre, Colton, Hill Ridware and Hamstall Ridware, completely free of charge; bringing you the best that the area has to offer. Each issue features heritage stories exploring the rich history of our area, plus competitions, interviews and the latest in fashion and style. Got a story or charity event you want to share with our readership? Think you’ve snapped an image that captures the spirit of the region? We want to hear from you!
10 Down to the Sea By Carl Knibb ARBSA
12 Tastes of the Season By Simon Smith
14 Window on the Past A walk down Talbot Street
20 Town Talk News from Rugeley Town Council 26 Finding a Forever Home By Rugeley Welfare for Dogs
30 Perfect Christmas Gifts for Littleys! Our pick of great Christmas gifts for kids
CITYLIFE Contacts Editor - Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048
josscitylife@gmail.com
Features - Jono Oates 07785 757201 jonocitylife@gmail.com Advertising-
Steve Brown 07740 166497 stevebrowncitylife@gmail.com Rebecca Hill 07970 513144 rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com Den Adams 07581 021203 dencitylife@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 Rugeley
Citylife in Rugeley 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 Rugeley or Citylife in Lichfield Ltd.
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New Memorial Garden to be built
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he Lea Hall and Brereton Collieries memorial Society has recently launched its second project to remember the contribution that local miners who worked at Lea Hall and Brereton collieries made to the local community. The project is a memorial garden to be built on the land adjacent to the entrance of Lea Hall Miners Welfare Centre and Social Club, Sandy Lane, Rugeley. It will include a memorial wall with bricks engraved with the names of miners who worked at both collieries, including those still with us and those who have passed away. The centrepiece will be a 6ft bas-relief showing two miners setting a prop. The sculptor who has been commissioned by the society is Birmingham based Andy DeComyn, who built the four miners statues installed on the Globe Island, Rugeley in September 2015. Each individual brick costs ÂŁ30 and application forms are available from Lea Hall Social Club, the Pear Tree Club, or the Miners Arms, Brereton or can be downloaded from the Rugeley
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Miners Reunited page. Alternatively an application form can be sent electronically by contacting the secretary of the society at: alexandersmith_59@hotmail.com or by post by sending a business size or large SAE to The Secretary, c/o 41 Winstanley Place, Rugeley, Staffs, WS15 2QB. The closing date for applications is the 28th of October, with completion and official unveiling of the project anticipated to be in the spring of 2019.
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Down to the sea‌ By Carl Knibb ARBSA
ere, local artist Carl Knibb ARBSA talks us through creating a beach scene to help capture holiday memories.
With the summer holidays receding behind us, it might be nice to remember that feeling a little longer by painting this quick beach scene in oils or acrylics. You only need a limited palette, I have used ultramarine blue, cerulean blue, cadmium red, burnt umber, yellow ochre and white. There is no need to get caught up in fiddly details with a painting such as this, rather focus on loose and free brushwork and an attention to tonality (darks and lights, contrast) rather than perfect colour. Image 1: The first step is a very simple drawing of the composition with some diluted burnt umber. The most important part of this stage is decision making about where you want things to go. How much sky do I want visible? How much of the cliffs? Think of the thing you most want to explore and let that be your focus. I wanted to portray the wet sand, so I left plenty of space to be able to do that. Image 2: The next step is to block in the darkest areas, the cliffs and their reflection, with a mix of ultramarine and umber. Then, using the two blues roughly block in the sky and sea, then add a touch of red and umber to cover the area of sand. Image 3: Use mostly white to add the lighter areas of foam in the turning wave, the sky by the cliff edge, and the reflection on the wet sand. Remember to keep in mind where your light source is coming from. Go back to some deeper blues to give a bit more form to the main wave shape. Image 4: Using a mix of ultramarine and umber loosely add the rocks and pebbles of the foreground. No need to paint every stone as an individual, rather let your brush dab and dance across the area. Then add little flicks of greys, browns and blues and spots of pure white to suggest the light and wetness of the stones. With these same lighter colours define the wet sand a little more with smooth, blended strokes, and add a little smudge to the far cliff to give a sense of distance from the closer cliff. Image 5: A small amount of red and ochre with white was added to the lightest area of sky to give a little warmth. Add some pure white spots on the water and foam of the waves, and a smooth swipe on the sand to represent the sun reflection. A mix of the blues with some ochre was used to add some deeper green/grey tones to the churning waves. This is a quick exercise in playing with darks and lights and using loose brushwork. I hope you have fun! For more information go to carlknibb.com or visit his Facebook page.
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My Month
in Parliament
By Amanda Milling MP
I am back in Parliament after the summer recess and what was a welcome break away from the hustle and bustle of Westminster. It was great to be out and about in Rugeley and Brereton meeting people, helping constituents with their problems and attending many community events. Before returning to Parliament, I had the pleasure of enjoying the final few local events of the Summer Holidays, including the fun day in Rugeley Town Centre organised by Action for Businesses and the official opening of the new play area in Ravenhill Park. The park has received significant investment and is truly fantastic – the Brereton Million Group should be very proud of their achievement. Despite the end of the summer holidays, the community events continued, with the St. Augustine’s Church family fun day. It was a great day, enjoyed by all even if the weather wasn’t that kind. A huge amount of time and effort is given by local volunteers to make events such as this such a success and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our hardworking volunteers. Over the Summer I also delivered my petition to Cannock Chase District Council, calling on them to reverse their charges on town centre shops for having A-boards, tables and chairs outside their businesses. This petition attracted many thousands of signatures. Anti-social behaviour is an issue which is regularly raised with me by local residents. Before returning to Parliament I spent the day shadowing our local policing teams. This was a great opportunity to discuss issues such as anti-social behaviour and better understand what the local police are doing to tackle crime. I am very grateful to our fantastic local policing team who are working day and night to keep us safe. As always, if you need my help with any issues or problems, please contact me on 01543 877142 or email amanda.milling.mp@parliament.uk
St. Michael’s Fish and Chip Supper
Monday 1st October at 7pm at St Michael’s Church, Main Road, Brereton, WS15 1DU. Tickets £5. Followed by Auction of fresh Harvest produce. Please contact Alison Tabernor (01889 804587) for tickets and confirm your choice of fish and chips, pie and chips or sausage and chips.
St. John’s Coffee Morning and Auction
On Wednesday 3rd October at 10.30am - 12.00 noon. Coffee Morning with auction of Harvest produce. St John’s Church, Church Close, Slitting Mill, Rugeley, WS15 2AB.
Desert Island Discs with Amanda Milling
On Friday 5th October at 7.30pm. Desert Island Discs with Amanda Milling MP. St John’s Church, Church Close, Slitting Mill, Rugeley, WS15 2AB.
Sequence Dance in aid of The Alzheimer's Society
On Sunday 7th October a Sequence Dance in aid of The Alzheimer's Society will take place between 7pm and 10pm at Lea Hall Social Club, Sandy Lane, Rugeley Entrance £3 and you can pay on the door £3. All are welcome.
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Tastes of the Season By Simon Smith
Earlier this year I was working in St Tropez and spoilt for choice with all the wonderful ingredients I had to play with. The markets there are bursting with colour and the smells of Provence, plus artisan products that would inspire anyone to cook. One of the delicious local specialities that caught my eye is Fougasse. This is a Provençale bread which comes in many guises and can have all sorts of ingredients added. The first of this month’s recipes is a Goat’s Cheese and Garlic Fougasse, but if you don’t like goat’s cheese try it with something that’s more to your taste – Roquefort works equally well. Our second recipe is an easy pudding that takes minutes to prepare and is ideal for a buffet as it can be eaten hot or cold. This Fruit and Nut Filo is inspired by the flavours of Oman and it’s completely delicious.
Fougasse Ingredients: 15g fresh yeast or 2 packets of dried yeast 15g sugar or honey 15g salt 315ml tepid water 500g strong bread flour plus extra for dusting 3 tbsp parmesan cheese 2 sprigs rosemary 1 red onion (sliced and caramelised)
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200g goat’s cheese 50g parsley chopped 4 ripe tomatoes 1 clove garlic
Method Crumble the yeast into the water and add the sugar. Stir in using your fingers. Mix the salt with the flour in a mixing bowl. Add the water/yeast mix to the flour and mix using one hand. Once the dough starts to come together, empty on to the work surface and knead. Once the dough has come together knead for five minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a bowl and cover with cling-film. Leave the dough to prove for 40 minutes somewhere warm. When the dough has doubled in size, turn out on to a floured surface to ‘knock back’. Work the dough gently for five minutes and then add half your herbs and onion. Roll out the dough and place into an oiled tin. Cover the dough and leave to prove for a second time. When the dough has risen to twice its height, remove the cover and roll into a large circle. On one side cut three holes (as you can see in the photo). Lay the tomatoes, goat’s cheese, chopped garlic, chopped parsley and rosemary on the complete half and fold over so the holed side is on the top. Bake in a preheated oven set at 160 for 25 minutes. Sprinkle with olive oil before serving.
Fruit and Nut Filo Ingredients: 4 sheets filo pastry 8ozs chopped walnuts 4ozs sultanas 4ozs soft dates 4ozs dried apricots 1/2tsp cinnamon 2tbsp honey 1 pomegranate, seeded 8ozs Mascarpone 4ozs chopped pistachios Zest of 1 orange
Method Preheat oven to 180 degrees. Mix the dried fruits, nuts, cinnamon and honey together in a bowl. Lay the filo sheets out on a table and spread the fruit and nut mixture down the centre of the sheets. Fold over like a large sausage roll and place on a baking sheet. Put into the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Mix the pomegranate seeds with the Mascarpone. Slice the filo, lay on a dish and dust with icing sugar. Serve the Mascarpone cream on the side. Sprinkle with orange zest and chopped pistachios.
Simon Smith runs a catering business from his production kitchen in Lichfield, providing bespoke private dinners plus wedding, corporate and event catering. Simon also undertakes cookery demonstrations around the country and with local businesses such as Arthur Price and Tippers. If you are looking for catering or a day of cookery skills go to www.simonsmithchef.com
Please take extra care when preparing foods and handling hot foodstuffs. Go to www.food.gov.uk for further details. Food preparation is undertaken at your own risk.
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A Window on the Past
A walk down Talbot Street
In the first half of the 19th century Rugeley was a rapidly growing town. By 1851 its population had almost doubled from the 2,030 inhabitants in 1801. A new church replaced the “Old Chancel”, the railway came and new streets were built. Albion Street was cut in 1822, followed by Queen Street, Heron Street, King Street and Talbot Street on an area that had been part of Hodgley common field. A map of 1840 shows these later streets with only a handful of buildings. Since then Talbot Street has been developed with an eclectic mix of architecture. 1. The corner of Talbot Street and Lichfield Street - a postcard franked in 1924. 2. A little further down the north-west side - probably taken in the 1920s 3. The north-west side of Talbot Street - the white house is
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Here, The Landor Society takes us on a walk through two hundred years of Talbot Street history. number 32. Image taken from the railway embankment. The allotment gardens south-east of the houses are shown as such on the 1921 map. 4. A drawing of number 32, an early 19th century listed building. 5. The entrance porch of no 28, ‘Talbot House’ taken in 1957. For many years it was the home of auctioneer George Brown. 6. ‘Talbot House’ in 1989. It is now a nursing home. 7. Miss Brammar’s school, a small private school, in 1928. 8. The National School built in 1892 for infants, who until then had been taught in part of the Prince of Wales School in Lichfield Street. In 1913, the infant school in Talbot Street and the girl’s school in Church Street exchanged buildings. The Talbot Street School became a Junior Girl’s School when the new Secondary Modern School in Taylor’s Lane opened in 1939. The Landor Society is a focus for those who wish to learn more about the history of Rugeley and its surrounding parishes. It was founded in 1953 and was named in honour of Walter Noble Landor, local and county historian, who became the Society’s first President. More information is available at www.landor-localhistorysociety-rugeley.btck.co.uk
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Rugeley & District Lions Club By Peter Fielding
hings are now hotting up for the Club as we head towards Autumn and Winter. We have an ongoing project of tidying up the garden at St. Barbara Retirement Home in Rugeley - painting fences etc. We assisted at the Rugeley 10k run (not running!) and also helped our colleagues, Hednesford Centennial Lions Club, by Marshalling at the MASE walk over Cannock Chase. At the request of the local churches we assisted at the recent ‘Family Parish Day’ held at St. Augustine’s Church. On the social side, members enjoyed a curry evening at the Red Peppers and some members attended the Lichfield Proms at Beacon Park. For the future, due to public demand, we intend to hold another Fashion Show in November – further details re tickets etc coming soon. Finally, a meeting has been held with our colleagues at the Rugeley Rotary Club to prepare for our popular Christmas Float which will run from 3rd December to 14th December. Details of the route and timings will be announced in due course. In order that we can cover all the routes within the time allowed we need volunteers to assist us in the evening runs. If you would like to be involved then please contact us via Rugeley Rotary or Rugeley Lions Facebooks or e-mail us at randdlions@hotmail.com If you wish to see how and what we do in more detail, please don’t hesitate to contact us using the above contacts.
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Cannock and District Ladies Probus By Jill Gooch
ecently Channel 5 came to Probus to film our speaker Joan Lockley as she gave a talk on the West Midlands Hedgehog Rescue Centre. Joan is known as the ‘hedgehog lady’ as she has looked after some 7,000 hedgehogs and hoglets over the years at her ‘hogspital’! She gave an informative presentation with photographs explaining the life of hedgehogs, and how we can help in preserving their habitat which has been so devasted over recent years. Some 36 million hedgehogs have declined to just one million with the loss of hedges on agricultural land and gardens, and the use of pesticides and chemicals. A ripple of excitement went through the audience when Joan dipped into a box and bought out ‘Mr Prickle’ - a tame hedgehog who calmly took to being passed around and stroked. We are now waiting impatiently for the Channel 5 documentary on animal sanctuaries to be screened to try and pick ourselves out in the background! The next meeting will celebrate the 25th Silver Anniversary on October 4th. The speaker will be E.K. Gilkes who will explore ‘Odes of Life and Laughter’. Meetings are held at The Chase Golf and Country Club on the first Thursday of the month at 12 noon. Guests and prospective new members are welcome. For further information contact membership secretary 07801 370935 and www.probusonline.org
Rugeley District Stroke Club Voluntary Help
Rugeley Stroke Club is desperate for volunteer helpers! If you have an hour or two to spare, we would love to see you! Stroke Club meets every Tuesday, 10.00am – 2.30pm at Lea Hall Social Club, Sandy Lane, Rugeley. We need volunteers, both women and men to assist with the running of the club and with the following activities:• Crafts - sewing, card-making, ceramic and glass painting etc. • Games - playing scrabble, dominoes, chess, darts with members. • Helping to organise outings, meals and social events. • Helping to organise entertainment and quizzes. • Preparing activities in the morning before members arrive. • Helping to clear away in the afternoon. We also need help with fund-raising. Currently we have a small group of volunteers struggling to cope with 19 members, all affected by stroke, and would be grateful for any time you could give. For more information please contact : Judy Winter, 01889 583517. Email - judywinter@talktalk.net
The Probus Club of Rugeley We look forward to hearing from you!
The Probus Club of Rugeley is a small friendly club for retired and semi-retired men and women. We are looking for new members to share in our varied programme of interesting speakers, monthly lunches and range of day trips. Our main aim is social, providing an opportunity for people to join others with similar interests and make new friends. We meet at St Paul’s Church Social Rooms on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month from 10am until 12 noon. Please contact Neil Gardner for further details on 01952 691411
Local History Course
The Landor (local history) Society presents a four week short course entitled Aspects of Family History by Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent Archive Service. Tues 2 October, 7.30pm - 9pm: Sources for Catholic History and Ancestry : Joanna Terry. Tues 9 October, 7.30 pm - 9pm: Poor Law Records: Liz Street.Tues 16 October, 7.30pm - 9pm: World War One Ancestry in National and Local Sources: Joanna Terry. Tues 23 October, 7.30 p.m 9pm: Lichfield Probate Records, 1500 to 1900 : Rebecca Jackson. At St. Paul's Methodist/United Reformed Church, Lichfield Street, Rugeley, WS15 2EH. Cost of course £20. For further details or to book a place call Marion Kettle 01889 576674 or Glenys Richards 01889 586040.
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Town Talk What’s Happening at Rugeley Town Council?
It has been a while, but here at the Town Council we are back up to a full complement of Councillors, working with officers to implement the new Strategy and Action Plan. The ideas behind the action plan have come from the responses to the survey that was on our website last autumn. We had nearly 200 responses and their comments have helped to inform the future direction of the council.
Elections are held at the Town Council every 4 years and the next one for all 19 Councillors will be held in May 2019. With this in mind it was agreed that we develop a short term strategy and action plan to give guidance to the remaining months of office for the Councillors and then to act as a blue print for future, longer term strategic documents. At our September meeting the Strategy was finally approved and is now available via our website. The Action Plan will be used to help us form a budget for next financial year.
The Town Council’s main form of income comes from the PRECEPT. This is the amount that is received from the local council tax. Discussions on this precept request will start in earnest at the next Full Council meeting which will be held on Wednesday 3rd October starting at 7.30pm in the Town Council Chamber (rear of the Rose Theatre). All are welcome to attend. Final decisions on the budget are likely to be made in January/ February 2019.
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News from Rugeley Town Council
New benches to mark the centenary of the end of WW1
There are strong historic links between Rugeley and the Armed Forces and this November marks 100 years since the end of WW1. As a mark of remembrance and respect, Rugeley Town Council and Rugeley Lotto Events have agreed to fund two new benches to be placed in the town centre in time for the remembrance events in November. In addition to the benches, the Rugeley Rose Theatre will be hosting a production of The Last Day. This production will use real life experiences, poetry and music to dramatize those last few days in the trenches and show also how it was for those back in Blighty. This free event will be held on Saturday 17th November. Check our website for more information nearer the time.
Seniors Afternoon Teas
We have been running these weekly teas for six months now and they are proving to be a real success. The teas are held on Wednesdays from 12pm – 2pm. Why not come along and join us for an excellent selection of sandwiches and cakes with friendly chats and bingo to follow? All of this costs just £2 and includes a raffle. Call the Rose Theatre on 01889 584036 to book your place.
Unsure about what the Town Council Does?
Here are a few of our roles and responsibilities: Statutory Consultee on Planning Applications and Planning Documents Lobbying the District and County Councils on your behalf Charter Fair – funds and operates this annual event Grants to local organisations Urban Orchard Grant to support growing of fruit and vegetables in public spaces Rugeley Rose Theatre Annual Firework display Christmas Lights in the town centre Annual Community Pantomime Weekly Seniors Afternoon Teas If in doubt, come and see us or give us a call as we may be able to help you or direct you to the more appropriate organisation. For more information, please call us on 01889 574074, or visit our website www.rugeleytowncouncil.gov.uk
Pantomime
This year’s pantomime will be Beauty and the Beast. The number of public performances has been increased due to popular demand. Public tickets are now available for Friday 14th December at 7pm; Saturday 15th December at 2pm and 7pm; Sunday 16th December at 1pm. Call the Rose Theatre Box Office for more information and to book your tickets.
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Bears Galore at Richard Winterton Auctioneers By Richard Winterton
An impressive collection of Steiff teddies passed through The Lichfield Auction Centre recently on their way to some loving new homes. The huge haul of furry friends struck a chord with serious arctophiles and the more casual collector, with our teddies proving beary desirable indeed and fetching more than £5,000. All bears sported the trademark ‘button in ear’ and are highly collectable. Our sale showcased dozens of different style bears - a real testament to the iconic German manufacturer’s genius! In fact, you can meet 40-plus teddies in just 30 seconds in a video on our Facebook page – just go to http://bit.ly/SteiffTeddies The sale also featured a boxed, limited edition Steiff ‘Millennium Dream Band’ set of musician teddies which included a musical box playing ‘When The Saints Go Marching In’, which sold for £260. Another limited edition baby bear set made £190 and a fantastic Sherlock Holmes teddy clad in tweed and toting a magnifying glass sold for £90. A Steiff ‘delivery cart’ sold for £120, a limited edition ‘polar bear on wheels 1910’ made £150 and another limited edition bear on wheels sold for £160. Numerous other bear-related items also sold well including a number of bear-friendly pint-sized chairs! It was truly a joyful sale for
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arctophiles everywhere. Our next specialist Toy Sale is on Monday, November 12, with entries invited to be submitted until October 23. We carry out free valuations of teddies, toys and almost anything else you can think of here at The Lichfield Auction Centre, Wood End Lane, Fradley Park, WS13 8NF, every Tuesday from 9.30am-4pm and free jewellery valuations on Fridays from 9.30am-4pm. On October 17 in the middle of our Three Day Sale, we’ll be welcoming renowned antiques expert Eric Knowles here at Lichfield to film BBC’s Bargain Hunt, so do pop in and say hello!
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For a truly personal service please call 01543 255776
Private Chapel of Rest 116 Netherstowe, Lichfield, Staffs. WS13 6TS
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The Friends of Etching Hill
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By Geoff Brookes
he Friends of Etchinghill was formed in May 2011, following a very successful community litter pick the previous month.
The litter pick was organised because litter at the local beauty spot with amazing views of both Cannock Chase and the surrounding area had become a problem. Only one small bin existed and some of the paths had become overgrown.
The hill, playing field and allotments had been left to the local people by a Mr Whitworth, a local businessman, grocer and landowner, back in the 1800s. Trustees had been appointed to manage the area, which until the 1970s had been heathland.
If you can possibly join us and get to know your neighbours and our group members from further afield or from nearby, please do come along or contact 07792 814607.
From that first meeting back in 2011 of the Friends of Etching Hill, a very strong committee was formed. Against all the odds, we have slowly but surely set about restoring the hill and paths, so that once again it could be enjoyed by all. The Trustees have worked with us supporting the progress we have made.
The committee drew up a constitution, sought and achieved funding, organised litter picks and received training from the Forest rangers on path clearance and maintenance. We hire Etching Hill church hall for our litter picks and also for our meetings where we have guest speakers on all aspects of wildlife and conservation. Recent talks have been about owls, dragonflies, bees, kingfishers and many other subjects.
In the past seven years we have obtained new information boards around the hill and worked with the council to provide extra litter bins. We have had work parties to try to restore some of the heathland along with the Trustees and their ecologist. Last year we had funding from theTesco Bags of Help scheme. A grant enabled some of the views to be restored across the Staffordshire moorlands and Trent Valley. They had been lost for fifteen years. The litter is cleared and kept down and the paths maintained.
To us it is about making the hill a nice place for everyone to enjoy and feel proud of - "Love where you live". We ask that people help us keep the hill clean, tidy and safe for children to play as generations have done before. The
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forming of Friends of Etching Hill has also played a big part in bringing the community together. In a slightly crazy, busy world, people often say they feel helping with a litter pick can be therapeutic and enjoyable. We have people of all ages join us. Some who are not physically able to clear litter are equally welcome and can still attend meetings and support us. Membership is ÂŁ1 per person for the year. New members are always welcome whether they live locally or not. We have supporters from as far away as Australia. They often have childhood memories of happy days spent playing on the hill and are pleased to know it is still being cared for.
We have over 200 people who follow us through Friends of Etching Hill Facebook pages, the website and blog. We have recently started an Instagram section following the success of our recent photographic competition.
We thank everyone who has supported the group since 2011 including this year- Rugeley Town Council, Mike Sutherland, Veolia, Tesco, AVH, Instaprint, Max Speilman, Etching Hill Church, The AONB, Local Councillors, Local MP Amanda Milling, Cannock Chase Council, Howard Medlicott Ecologist, Fire Cadets, The Guides, The Trustees to the hill, The Police and finally Members of the local community.
The next litter pick is on Saturday 29th September at 11am for one hour. We provide bags, gloves and grabbers. We meet at the church and afterwards refreshments are provided at the church hall. The next talk is on spiders at 7.30pm on 11th October at the church hall. Admission is free and refreshments are provided.
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Finding a Forever Home By Rugeley Welfare for Dogs
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ere, Ruth and Pauline of Rugeley Welfare for Dogs introduce us to Vinny, Riri and Jet, three four legged friends who are looking for their forever home.
Vinny is a seven year old male Boxer. He is neutered and chipped, and although he is currently living with another dog he could happily live on his own. He is fine with children, loves his walks and might need a little retraining on the lead.
Riri is a female Boxer/Spaniel cross who is five years old, spayed and chipped. She is currently living with Vinny and is fine with children. She loves her walks and is a very lovely dog.
Jet is a six year old Glenn Terrier who is fully vaccinated, chipped, tattooed and spayed. She is fine with other dogs and children but doesn’t get on with cats.
For more information on Rugeley Welfare for Dogs, or if you think you could offer a new home to a dog in need of re-homing, then please call Ruth on 07900 090993 or Pauline on 07971 817877. Alternatively visit facebook.com/rugeleydogswelfare. Please note that a home check and a donation will be required.
Vinny
Jet
If you own a female dog we advise that it’s best to have them spayed. Pyometra is an infection of the uterus and it's a condition that can affect female dogs who haven't been spayed. Each time a female dog has a season she undergoes hormonal changes. The changes that occur during each season make infection more likely with age. This life threatening condition can be prevented by getting your female dog spayed at an early age.
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Riri
Rugeley Fireplaces & Stoves
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ugeley Fireplaces & Stoves have been trading for three decades, giving them the expertise and experience to advise you from start to finish with any of your purchases. Their reputation for service and quality is outstanding with customers coming back time and time again. Darren is a fully qualified “Gas Safe” Engineer. Having been a HETAS solid fuel fire and stove installer for many years, Darren has pre-vetted each of their recommended specialist HETAS and Gas Safe installers for your complete peace of mind (and very competitive prices!). There’s no waiting weeks for your quote either, they quote instore and their surveys are always free. Emma, Darren, Kath and Julie combine many years of experience in solid fuel, gas and electric fires, stoves and fireplaces. They can help you visualise your new fireplace and can also design made to measure fireplaces and flues at surprisingly good prices. Choosing a new ‘forever fireplace’ can be a daunting process, so they promise that every customer will receive a professional but friendly service. They can guide you through the most cost effective heating solutions or design your dream ‘wow factor’ statement designer piece to add the finishing touch to your home. Rugeley Fireplaces & Stoves can be found at 41 Albion Street, Rugeley, WS15 2BY with town centre parking just off Forge Road. Tel: 01889-574022 www.rugeleyfireplaces.net.
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The Bonneys of Rugeley
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By Jono Oates
everend Thomas Bonney, born in 1802 at Sandon in Staffordshire, was educated at Clare Hall, Cambridge and in July 1826 became Master of Rugeley Grammar School, on the site of what is now the Chancel Primary School on Wolseley Road. In 1829 he was allowed to receive 20 private pupils into the school, each paying a five guinea entrance fee and 55 guineas per annum to attend classes. He and Walter Landor were trustees of the Rugeley Savings’ Bank which was located in the old Town Hall. He and his wife, Eliza Ellen, had eleven children. Professor Thomas George Bonney, the eldest son of Thomas Bonney, was born in 1833. He was educated at St John’s College, Cambridge
Cannock and District Ladies Probus
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Justice of the Peace for Stafford and was also a director of the Rugeley Gas Company as well as a governor at his former school, Rugeley Grammar School. He was a lover of gardening, flowers and also of birds. He always carried bird seed with him in his coat pockets and would often be seen in his garden feeding the birds. He moved from Colton House to live the later part of his life in The Hollies on Church Street, Rugeley. One of the sisters, Alice Jane Bonney, married another army man, Colonel William Alexander Wetherall of the Indian Army. Colonel Wetherall served on the Rugeley Bench of Magistrates, whose chair was Walter Landor, and was Vice-Chairman of the War Memorial Committee when the 1914-1918 memorial was unveiled in January 1921. Alice Jane was a very staunch supporter of church organisations including the Mothers’ Union and was well known for her kindness and generosity. The Bonney family has had a significant impact not only as major benefactors and supporters of the town of Rugeley but also across the country and even to the frozen lakes of Antarctica. Today two local streets have been named after the family members, Bonney Drive and Wetherall Close. Source: The British Newspaper Archive
By Jill Gooch
annock and District Ladies Probus are now in their 25th year and remain a vibrant and well-attended Club. Chairman Sheila Burrows has been delighted to welcome four new members this year: Karen, Sue, Angela and Val. With prospective new member Jennifer attending this month, we
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and although he taught mathematics at Westminster College he had an interest in geology, studying Alpine regions as well as geology in Britain. In 1877 he became Professor of Geology at University College London and was president of the British Association in 1911. Lake Bonney in Victoria Land, Antarctica, was named after TG Bonney by the ill-fated British Antarctic Expedition led by Sir Robert Scott. Two other brothers, William Augustus and Charles Henry, were both military men. Charles was a Lieutenant-colonel in the Shropshire Regiment and after he retired he became a keen painter with a studio in Anson Street as well as becoming the first President of the Rugeley Cycling Club. William Bonney was a Major in the Rugeley Company, Volunteer Battalion of the North Staffordshire Regiment and was also an Ensign in the Rugeley Volunteer Rifle Corps. Frederic Bonney, another son of Reverend Bonney, was born in 1842 and was educated at Rugeley Grammar School, where his father had been headmaster. In 1865 he emigrated to Australia where he joined another of his brothers, Edward, who was a sheep farmer. He returned to England twelve years later, undertaking a voyage around the world, before settling at Colton House, in Colton village just outside Rugeley. He became a much respected
are ensured that membership is maintained at 65 - a healthy number to ensure that we can be friendly, welcoming, and encompassing for ladies who like to socialise in a safe and relaxed manner. Our social secretary Jenny organises lots of trips out; Barbara organises at least one holiday a year; and Pauline runs a regular Craft Club and a Games Afternoon.
Meetings for Cannock Ladies Probus are held on the first Thursday of each month at The Chase Golf and Country Club for a meal at £15 and entertainment (usually a speaker). Membership is £16 annually. If you think you would like to join us or for further information, contact the membership secretary on 01889 882166 and www.probusonline.org
Applicants sought for independent scrutiny panel
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ould you like to help scrutinise and examine policing and the fire service in Staffordshire? The Ethics, Transparency and Audit Panel (ETAP) was launched by Matthew Ellis, the Staffordshire Commissioner Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime, with the aim of being the most open, transparent and independent means of scrutinising the county’s police. ETAP sit as a panel and meet regularly to examine the work of the police and fire. The rigour and scrutiny previously brought by ETAP has received national recognition. Mr Ellis commented: “Honest and independent scrutiny by the public is crucial as we strive to set the bar higher in policing and fire.This is about being open and transparent so that public confidence improves throughout our services.ETAP has used its wideranging and rigorous powers to scrutinise to make sure decisions made are correct and in the best interests of the public.We’re looking for more members of the public from the north of the county, especially those with financial expertise.” Appointments are made for a minimum of two years with work on ETAP taking up to three days per month. Appropriate remuneration is available for the right candidate. Applicants must be based in Staffordshire or Stoke-on-Trent. People across the county are being invited to apply to join the independent panel - with ETAP particularly keen to hear from qualified accountants to help with the scrutiny of public finances. For more details, please contact Jean Cass on 01785 232453 or on jean.cass@staffordshire-pfcc.pnn.gov.uk
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£3 each
Children’s Christmas Chests - small £15, medium £17.50 and large £20 - available from Kereen’s Kardz
£19.95
Sterling silver aeroplane pendant and chain - available from MW Jewellery and Repairs
Play chairs - available from LMC Home
Perfect Christmas Gifts for Littleys!
It may seem like it’s a long way in the future, but as I write this Christmas is less than 14 weeks away! We bring you here our selection of perfect Christmas gifts for your littleys, all available right here in Rugeley. Powell Craft treasure chest - From Jenny’s Crafts at Wolseley Bridge
£15
£12
Powell Craft Pirate From Jenny’s Crafts at Wolseley Bridge
£10 each
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Dinosaurs – From Jenny’s Crafts at Wolseley Bridge
£29.95
Sterling silver, CZ and ruby deer pendant and chain available from MW Jewellery and Repairs
from £8.50
Range of Powell Craft animals - From Jenny’s Crafts at Wolseley Bridge
Selection of stocking fillers starting from £1 - available from Angela’s Allsorts
Range of new and used video games from £1 to £20 available from Retro Hub
£5 £25
Mugs from £6 Printed garments from £8 From Instaprint
£5
Boxed kitten watch available from MW Jewellery and Repairs
Child’s sleep set - available from Angela’s Allsorts
£45
£11.99 each
£35
Child’s table with chair (hand-painted with Frenchic paint) - available from Poppies Shabby Chic
Stockists: Kereen’s Kardz, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Brewery Street, Rugeley, WS15 2DY. Gifts from the H rt, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Brewery Street, Rugeley, WS15 2DY. LMC Home, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Brewery Street, Rugeley, WS15 2DY.
Child’s collapsible rocking chair with owl cushion available from Poppies Shabby Chic
Toy tidy (hand-painted with Frenchic paint) - available from Poppies Shabby Chic
MW Jewellery and Repairs, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Brewery Street, Rugeley, WS15 2DY. Retro Hub, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Brewery Street, Rugeley, WS15 2DY. Angela’s Allsorts, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Brewery Street, Rugeley, WS15 2DY.
Baby boy and girl teddy bears - available from Gifts from the H rt
Poppies Shabby Chic, Brewery Street Shopping Centre, Brewery Street, Rugeley, WS15 2DY. Jenny’s Crafts, The Old Barns, Wolseley Bridge, ST17 0XS Instaprint, 21 - 23 Albion Street, Rugeley, WS15 2BY
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Our Local War Memorials
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By Harry Thornton
s we approach the centenary of WWI, Harry Thornton, a member of the Landor (Local History) Society takes a look at our local war memorials and the story of how our area decided to honour those fallen in battle. In this issue Harry explores the Rugeley and Colton memorials. In our November issue the story will continue with Armitage, Handsacre, Brereton and Ridwares memorials. Thank you to Harry for all of his hard work in bringing these stories to our pages.
As November this year marks the centenary of the ending of World War One, it seems a suitable time to take a closer look at the local war memorials. In Rugeley, a committee headed by ex-Indian Army Col. W.A. Wetherall CBE was appointed to undertake all aspects relating to the design and location of a memorial. As a result the present memorial was erected outside the Police Station in Anson Street, and unveiled by the Earl of Dartmouth, Lord Lieutenant of the County, at a ceremony befitting the occasion in January 1921. Made of Portland stone it consists of a three tier base surmounted by a square plinth bearing 116 names, above which a tall obelisk raises the total height to about 4.5 metres. Due to road alterations the memorial was moved to Brook Square in the early 1970s, but in 2009 it was found to be at risk of falling into a collapsed culvert and was moved back to Anson Street, not far from its original position. Another memorial, with the names on a scroll in a carved wooden frame, was placed behind glass outside the town hall but was lost when the site was cleared in 1976. The now-closed Grammar School had its own memorial of ex-pupils and this is now in St. Augustine’s church. At Colton, the villagers have reason to be especially proud of their outdoor memorial after its recent major refurbishment. Made of granite,
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War Memorial in Sept 2018
with the names of 17 men who died in WW1 on a tiered plinth and surmounted by a cross, it was unveiled in July 1922 by H.L. Horsefall Esq. in a ceremony in the presence of school children, Girl Guides and other local organisations. A handsome memorial to the 17 men is also in Colton church.
Anson Street War Memorial, image probably late 1920s
Colton War Memorial September 2018
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The Ridwares W.I. By Dot Boulton
t a recent meeting of The Ridwares WI the speaker, Sam Passey, was introduced - a financial expert specialising in inheritance tax planning and the protection of assets. Mr. Passey explained that the threshold before paying inheritance tax was currently £325,000 or £650,000 per couple which would rise to £1,000,000 by 2020. If ‘care’ was needed in the future, this could be in the region of £1,000 per week and if the estate held £23,250, including property, charges for care would be made.There are 120 plus properties sold every day to pay for care but planning can be put into place to protect assets. Most couples own their home jointly but this should be changed to ‘tenants in common’ so that 50% each goes into a Trust on death. Mr. Passey also covered Lasting Power of Attorney and Enduring Power of Attorney which should be set up before the loss of mental capacity. The speaker then judged the competition “A Treasured Inherited Item” which was won by Wendy. A successful Skittles Evening had been held at Hamstall Ridware, with Gaye emerging triumphant as the individual overall winner. Outings were
planned to a walled garden at Elford, with cream tea, Tatton Park in December, and the pantomime in Birmingham in January. The Midsummer Tea had been very popular, 73 teas being served. The village again held a Menafest Music Festival in aid of Bone Cancer Research, in memory of Ximena Howell. The ladies of the W.I. held a ‘Jarbola’ stall, in which a variety of jars were filled with delicious and useful items to be won tombola style and £264 was raised for the charity. The next Community Coffee Morning will be on Tuesday, 4th September, 10.30am to 12 noon at the village hall. Everyone welcome. The next meeting of The Ridwares W.I. will be held on Tuesday, 18th September. The speaker will be Natalie Pettite, the subject ‘Beautiful Bodies’. New members are always welcome. Just come along or telephone 01543 492136 for details.
Have you heard about The Warrens?
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ittleys everywhere will prick up their ears at the news that The Warrens will be opening its doors in October at CONKERS. The Warrens is a fascinating, interactive and fun new attraction that’s got everyone in the woodland whispering. Read the November issue for full details. The Warrens is a unique mix of indoor and outdoor experiences that will keep everyone in the family entertained for hours! This latest attraction to open at CONKERS joins a brilliant range of activities to see and do. With 120 acres of adventures in the forest - indoor and outdoor play and over 100 interactive exhibits – there is enough at CONKERS to keep the whole family entertained for hours, whatever the weather. From adventure play through to the new 4D Cinema Experience and the simulated tree top walk, plus barefoot walk, adventure play, Hi and Low Ropes and the Conkerchoo, CONKERS is a premier choice for family entertainment. Explore ten different outdoor pursuit activities and choose a selection that suits your family – all at a very reasonable cost. When you need a break there’s a great range of restaurants and Café’s at CONKERS, and don’t miss out on a visit to The Trading Post for all those souvenirs and gifts. You can find CONKERS at Rawdon Road, Moira, Near. Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Derbyshire, DE12 6GA. www.visitconkers.com
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The Case of the Frightened Lady
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ollowing the success of its premiere in January 2018, a brand new cast has been announced for the autumn tour of The Classic Thriller Company’s The Case Of The Frightened Lady by Edgar Wallace, led by the stage and TV star, John Partridge. The autumn tour of this murder mystery will arrive at the Lichfield Garrick from Monday 15 October 2018.
John Partridge who is best known to TV audiences as Christian Clarke in EastEnders, leads a star cast in the role of Inspector Tanner. He will be joined by: Deborah Grant, who has starred in Not Going Out and Bergerac; Robert Duncan, best known for Drop The Dead Donkey; Phillip Lowrie, best known for playing Dennis Tanner in Coronation Street; Scarlett Archer from Emmerdale; and Matt Barber from Downton Abbey. Angus Brown, Gwynfor Jones, Rosie Thomson and Joshua Wichard complete the cast. Inspector Tanner is called to investigate a ruthless murder at the grand ancestral home of the Lebanon Family. Navigating a bloodline
obsessed patriarch, a groundskeeper with a grudge and two unsettling footmen, Inspector Tanner discovers nothing is quite as it seems. As Tanner moves closer to the heart of the mystery he uncovers a shocking and closely-guarded secret. The Case of the Frightened Lady is playing at the Lichfield Garrick from Monday 15 October to Saturday 20 October with a variety of evening and matinee performances. Tickets start from £24 and can be booked online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com or by calling the Box Office on 01543 412121.
MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTORS WANTED
Earn extra money delivering magazines in various areas. Must be over 16
Call Marie 07548 682576
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