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Inside... April 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!
12 A Window on the Past The Grand Junction Canal
22 Your Image Beautiful pictures of our area
25 Rugeley Town Council News News from your council
26 Unearthing History By Gary Starkey
28 A Visit to Hamstall Ridware By Kate Gomez
32 Beautiful homes this Spring Interior design ideas for your home
CITYLIFE Contacts Editor - Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048
josscitylife@gmail.com
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Amanda Moseley 07747 844346 amandamoseleycitylife@gmail.com 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 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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Annual Rugeley Runners Road Race
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By Kevin Ball
his year’s annual Rugeley 10 mile road race, organised by the Rugeley Runners club, saw 336 athletes from all over the country compete on a course that has been described as ‘not for the faint hearted’, thanks to climbs at Batesway, Red Hill, Grange Hill and the infamous Startley Lane to Wandon Crossroads. The race began at Redbrook Hayes School where nerves were calmed and bodies fuelled with refreshments provided by the school PTA. Head teacher Chris Gaffiney, who is himself an accomplished tri-athlete who took part in 2017, sounded the starting gun and was escorted by motorcycle escorts from Blood Bikes. A £50 prize was on offer for the winning male and female athlete if they beat the respective course records. Race winner Anthony Woodward from Notts AC stormed to the finish with an astonishing course record of 54:14 and last year’s winner Mathew Missen of
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Birchfield Harriers bettered his 2017 time achieving 56:07. Last year’s winner of the female race, Kristina Defries of Stone Master Marathoners, came in first once again with an excellent time of 1:06.05. However, she missed her own course record from 2017 and so the £50 prize money rolls over to next year. Chelsea Baker of the Royal Navy finished in second place at 1:08.26 with Michelle Buckle of Newcastle AC coming in a close third at 1:09.15. As ever, the event would not have been possible without the assistance of volunteers and local businesses. The race was marshalled by members of the Rugeley Runners and Rugeley Cricket Club. Local businesses Hawkins Logistics, Estate Signs, Premier Nutrition and Prestige MG provided the use of their car parks and Morrisons supermarket supplied goody bags and refreshments. Water was supplied by Crystalline and the race day advertising was by Print and Design. As a result of everyone’s efforts, the club has been able to make donations to Blood Bikes
and Redbrook Hayes School as well as the local church who kindly delayed their service to allow the race to come through. Next year’s race takes place on Sunday 17th February 2019. For more information, please visit www.rugeleyrunners.org.uk.
Life Saving Defibrillator installed through Gymophobics’ fundraising
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defibrillator, which has been purchased through funds raised by members of Gymophobics, Rugeley, was installed on Thursday 22nd February. This life-saving defibrillator can be found outside Gymophobics at 3 Market Street, Rugeley. Joanna Rigby, owner of Gymophobics Rugeley commented: “We are so excited that this life saving piece of equipment will be available for the whole community. The staff and members of Gymophobics Rugeley raised over £2,000 in just eight months to enable the Rugeley community to benefit from this life saving equipment. They organised charity curry nights, afternoon teas and a nearly-new sale along with a range of fundraising activities within the gym. Whilst there are defibrillators in the town centre, this is the first to be accessible 24 hours a day 7 days a week. The new unit is situated in Market Street at the bottom end of town near Iceland and Wilkinsons. “Well over the £2,000 target was achieved so the gym was able to additionally donate £250 to Brereton and Ravenhill Parish Council to cover
the insurance excess of a defibrillator that was damaged in Brereton Park. “This was a fantastic effort by the whole team and a cause that our members got fully behind. When we started raising money we aimed to raise the money in 12 months which we felt was a challenge, so to do this four months early was amazing and I cannot thank my team and members enough." The unveiling was attended by staff and members of Gymophobics as well as Gymophobics Founder, Donna Hubbard and representatives of The Rugeley and District First Responders who will have responsibility for
ensuring the machine is always in working order. Well done to Gymophobics Rugeley and everyone involved.
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! Contact Citylife at josscitylife@gmail.com
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Edward Hitchiner – Painter, Decorator and Plumber
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By David Derry
dward Hitchiner’s work was varied. It included painting and decorating properties inside and out, plastering, fitting spouting and down pipes, and replacing glass in windows and doors. He also fitted new water closets, re-pointed chimneys and cleaned and repaired wells! In 1862, his premises were situated at 3234 Horsefair, Rugeley and they were still there 70 years later. Between 1868 and 1892, his main customers included Brereton Colliery, Sir Charles Forster (of Lysways Hall, Longdon), the estate of the Earl of Shrewsbury, Colonel Bagot (of Blithfield Hall), Hagley Hall, Beaudesert Hall and The National Provincial Bank in Rugeley. When working locally, Edward’s transport consisted of a hand cart and when travelling further afield he used a horse and cart. We know he had horses as it is recorded that he obtained a supply of feed from Colton Mill and William Williams (Millers) of Sheepfair, Rugeley. Most of his raw materials were sourced locally with wood, window frames, pipes and fittings coming from well-established Rugeley companies. Other suppliers included Mander Brothers in Wolverhampton for paint and Perks and Company in Birmingham for plate glass. Records show that between 1868 and
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1875 he employed a Harry Devall, John Cash, John Bennett and John Muddeman who all worked six days a week, ten hours a day for a wage of one pound and ten shillings a week. John Muddeman was from Birmingham and was introduced to Edward Hitchiner by George Evans, also of Birmingham. In a letter dated 1871, George asked Edward for a job for young John saying that although John was on sixpence an hour he would accept four pence. He got the job! During the 1914-18 war, Hitchiner supplied whitewash and paint to the Army Camp at Penkridge Bank, and repaired the felt roof of the Rugeley Camp Cinema for a cost of five pounds, six shillings and sixpence. In 1924, he undertook work for Rugeley Urban District Council, plumbing and painting twenty houses in Sandy Lane for the pricey sum of £1,320. A year later, he installed glazing for sixteen new dwellings in Hood Lane, Armitage, for Edward Johns Co Ltd, costing £520. Later on in life, Edward Hitchiner began sign writing in English Gold Leaf for George Burnell, adding lettering to his lorry and painting number plates for a total of five shillings.
The records also give us a glimpse into Edward’s everyday life and we can see he bought his provisions locally. Bread came from Abraham Whitworth in Market Place and meat came from George Wilson of Albion Street and also Thomas Wallbank in Brook Square. Clothes and shoes came from John Porter of Heron Street and Robert Key of Upper Brook Street. As a point of interest, in 1874, Edward Hitchiner’s first ever gas bill was a whopping eight shillings and four pence! In 1978, Hitchiner’s shop and house along Horsefair were demolished to make way for the Chestnut Court flats which still occupy the site today. David Derry is a member of the Landor (Local History) Society
Gift vouchers available
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A Window on the Past The Grand Junction Canal
Here, the Landor Society takes a look at that great British institution – the canal. Once these were the motorways of their day, transporting goods and raw materials across the country. Now they form a watery network across the land, and are enjoyed by thousands of people every day.
The canal that runs through Rugeley, now usually called the Trent & Mersey Canal was 240 years old in 2017. James Brindley’s feat of engineering runs for 93 miles from Shardlow on the River Trent to Preston Brook, thus providing a means of transporting goods, from Liverpool on the west coast to Hull on the east, by water.
In the 18th century, travel by road was hazardous with deep ruts and potholes and in wet weather roads were little more than quagmires – and of course there were no railways. The steam train and the petrol engine sounded the death knell for the canal system as a means of bulk transport of heavy goods. Nowadays the waterways are mainly used for leisure activities. 1.
A peaceful scene in 1997 – The Turnover Bridge (Bellamour)
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Stokes’ tannery buildings at the rear of Bryans Lane in 1974
2. The old and the new in 1957. The newly constructed concrete bridge over the canal, which carried the Lea Hall Colliery railway line, near to its junction with the Cannock Mineral Line. The 19th century brick-built bridge is in the background
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4. The same warehouse, taken in 1979 from the canal bridge
5. Pleasure boats in 2001. Sneydlands sheltered accommodation is in the distance 6. The Heron Court Sunday School outing to Seven Springs getting ready to depart from Bryans Lane wharf in 1909
7. Restocking the canal with fish in December 1983, image taken near the Station Road bridge 8. The Old Brewery Cottages in Armitage Road
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 Please note that these images may not be reproduced, copied, or used in any way without express permission from Citylife in Lichfield Ltd and The Landor Society.
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My Month in Parliament By Amanda Milling MP
Hopefully we have seen the last of the cold snowy weather for this year. The recent cold spell saw significant snow falling across the country, and Cannock Chase got more than its fair share. There were several roads across the area that were blocked, there were many schools closed and significant disruption to local services. Both during the bad weather and in the run up to it, I was lobbying Staffordshire County Council to ensure that they were doing everything in their power to ensure that the roads were kept as clear as possible. I know gritters, snowploughs and JCBs were deployed to clear the snow and ice. Last issue I reported that I brought the Secretary of State for Transport, the Rt Hon Chris Grayling MP, to Rugeley Trent Valley train station to discuss much needed improvements to the station, including improving the disabled access. The access to the car park is also very dangerous so I recently hosted a meeting with Staffordshire County Council, West Midlands Trains Ltd and Network Rail to discuss this issue and see what can be done to resolve this. I have also been lobbying Arriva following their decision to withdraw Sunday bus services which run from the Cannock depot. The withdrawal of services is a real blow for residents who are reliant on public transport. I have written to Arriva and will meet them to discuss the matter and the possibility of restoring Sunday services. This decision to remove services must be reversed as soon as possible. Looking forward, I am co-hosting a Jobs Fair with Rugeley Town Council and Cannock Wood based company ATP Industries Ltd on Friday 20th April, between 10am and 1pm at Rugeley Rose Theatre. This is a free event where jobseekers can talk to businesses looking to recruit new people. If you are a business with jobs to advertise, or someone looking for a job, please call my office or visit my website for more details. As always, if you have any issue you need my help with, please drop me an email on amanda.milling.mp@parliament.uk or call me on 01543 877142.
Competition winners
Congratulations to C Banton, A Manley, R Titley, B Godfrey and J Smale who have all won two tickets to The Photography Show 2018 - we hope you have a great time!
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Military Badge Collection
By Nick Thompson – Medal & Militaria Consultant at Richard Winterton Auctioneers Since the late 1700s the Military forces of almost every country in the world have had some form of insignia for their force’s helmets, caps and other headgear. Some would say that the Armed Forces of the United Kingdom, are right up there, near the top, when it comes to metal cap and helmet badges to signify one Regiment or Corps from another. When it comes to collecting, the specialised fields that open up are almost endless, i.e. collecting by a certain battle; collecting by a local Regiment or Regiments associated with each county - for example Staffordshire; or collecting to a specific division or formation you really can make your own rules up as you go along. Almost every military fair I attend has a huge number of these badges for sale, and the prices can range from a couple of pounds, right up to £50 plus for a scarce Regiment or formation. So, no matter how deep your pockets, there is something out there for the collector to start his way up the fascinating badge-collecting ladder. We at Richard Winterton Auctioneers are
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extremely pleased to offer a large collection of British Military Cap Badges and Helmet Plates in our next Military Sale on Monday 30th April, 2018. This collection of almost 800 specimens has been catalogued into lots which represent the finest of our important military history. The badges represented cover almost every Line Regiment and Corps from the late 1800s through to the recent past. Some of the lots are specific, i.e. badges to the Imperial Yeomanry. Some are specific to the Corps, including some scarce units. Hundreds of Line Regiments feature also, including a cap badge from the 1800s of the Carlow Rifles.
This sale will attract attention from the keen enthusiast, dealer, and beginner alike, and together with other items of medals and militaria will form a significant part of the sale.
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Guides raise money for Staffordshire Lowland Search & Rescue Team
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he 8th Rugeley Guides recently hosted a charity fundraiser to raise money for Staffordshire Lowland Search & Rescue Team (SSART).The girls had been inspired by the work of the organisation after members of the team visited one of their meetings to give a talk and demonstration about what they do. The Guides organised a family Valentine’s evening, inviting along their parents and other family members. Much of the food and refreshments were provided by Tesco Rugeley and representatives from the store also came
along to support the event. Afternoon tea was served, followed by bingo and a raffle and overall, the Guides raised £215 for the rescue service who also came along on the night to join in with the fun.
SSART work in partnership with Staffordshire Police, West Midlands Ambulance Service, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue and Staffordshire Civil Contingencies Unit and have specialist training in locating and rescuing missing people in urban and rural lowland areas. SSART is a highly skilled team of dedicated volunteers who give up their time to provide a service to the emergency services in the upmost professional manner. The team is funded entirely through donations from the
public and local businesses. For more information, please visit http://www.staffordshirelowlandrescue.org/
Five Signs Your Computer is Crying Out for Repair By Neil Fletcher
It’s pretty obvious when your computer is already broken, but how do you know when it’s about to break? Even before it falls into a heap and refuses to turn on, or flashes big messages about how your files are now encrypted, you’ll be given multiple hints that something is wrong. Here are the common signs your computer needs repair, sooner rather than later. 1. It’s running slow. Most people assume their computer is running slow because it’s getting older, but it could actually be for a variety of reasons. A program behaving badly, a virus, overheating or even a failing hard drive can all cause a massive slow down. Sometimes the slow speed is simply due to some newer software that your hardware can’t keep up with.
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2. Your system is running hot. A very common sign with laptops, running hot can be both the sign and cause of damage. Computers have fans to blow out hot air so they can cool off their internal components. At the same time, fresh air is drawn in through vents to create an effective cooling system. Unfortunately, just about every vent in a computer can quickly become clogged with dust and pet fur, essentially choking off the circulation and leaving components to overheat. Desktop computers have more space inside to circulate air, but you’ll still need to keep their vents clear. You’ll know your computer is running too hot if your system shuts down frequently (safety cutout), the fan is working serious overtime, or your laptop is too hot to use on your lap.
3. Blue Screens of Death are everywhere. A classic Windows error, this is quite literally a blue screen that covers your view. The system will still be running, but something has gone wrong. If you’re getting blue screens all the time, that’s a sign of a hardware or software problem that needs to be resolved.
4. It’s making strange noises. Your computer has a number of moving parts. You’ll know by now which noises it normally makes, from the start-up beep to the whirring fan. When your computers starts to make extra noises... that’s when things get interesting. Fans can wear down and screech or grind, hard drives can start clicking, and in emergency cases, you might even hear a zapping noise. None of those are good!
5. It crashes and freezes. If your computer is crashing randomly, re-starting without you, or freezing up completely, it’s a sure sign there’s a problem. You might notice it’s showing other signs from this list too because crashing and freezing are what happens when something isn’t just wrong, it’s terribly wrong. The problem could be almost anything, hardware and software both, but it’s always fixable. Is your computer doing these things? Let us fix it for you. Call 01889 579990 for help.
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Taking the dog for a run!
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n Sunday 8th April, Frosty Freeman will be running the Cathedral to Castle 10 mile race to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. Joining him for the last five miles of the run will be his best friend Fred. Along with Dawn and daughter Charlotte, Frosty and Fred will be met at the finish line by Ruth and Pauline from Rugeley Welfare for Dogs, who originally introduced the pair to each other back in 2014. Here, Frosty tells us about how the charity helped him to give Fred his forever home. “Fred came into our house and made it a home on the 1st December 2014. Without
Pauline Roberts and Ruth Dewis who run Rugeley Welfare for Dogs, we would never have even known about Fred. He was very
neglected when we got him but you just take one look at him and your heart melts and instantly you know you are going to do everything humanly possible to give him the life he fully deserves. In truth, he has given me a much more rounded life. I am the lucky one not Fred! Both Ruth and Pauline fully supported me as I started my journey with Fred. At the start it was quite a windy path and lots of time and effort when into making sure Fred got the best chance. Pauline and Ruth got Fred into his forever home just in time and have both kept an eye on how he is doing. They are always asking after him and they both deserve medals for the job they do with Rugeley Welfare for Dogs!” To sponsor Frosty, please visit his page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/frostyfreeman. For more information on Rugeley Welfare for Dogs, or if you could think you could offer a new home to a dog in need, 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.
Laughter and Building Communities of Hope wellbeing at Cannock By Revd David Evans Chase Museum E T
he Museum of C a n n o c k Chase have added two special events to their calendar this springtime. A ‘Wellbeing Day’ hosted by mindfulness instructor, Rachel Massey, will be held on Saturday 7th April, in the grounds of the museum, at the foot of the beautiful Hednesford Hills. This is an exclusive one day workshop for adults to ‘enhance their wellbeing and nature connectedness’ which will include a buffet lunch and give an opportunity to enjoy something different with a loved one. A ‘Comedy Night at the Museum’ will see a host of ‘rising stars’ appear on Wednesday 28th March. MC Frankie Peoples will introduce Freddie Farrell, Jon Pearson and winner of the Edinburgh Fringe Best Joke Award 2016 – Masai Graham. It’s bring your own beer or wine, and tickets are £9. The Museum is a much loved attraction in Cannock Chase, which focuses on local heritage. Situated at the former colliery site, it has a permanent toy collection, and a mining gallery that visitors of all ages can enjoy – plus a temporary exhibition gallery, a small café and lots of information in reception covering the whole area. A variety of courses and workshops are on offer for group bookings too, such as ‘Natural Dyeing Skills’, ‘Bushcraft Skills’ and ‘Experimental Archaeology’ – which is popular with scout and youth groups. For booking information call the museum on 01543 877666.
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aster is good news for all humanity. Easter opens for us the way back for humanity to discover wholeness, reconciliation and peace with neighbour, God and ourselves. What motivates and energises the church is a vision of people discovering good news and hope in all aspects of life. What we in the church are committed to is building Communities of Hope… And we are recruiting! What does ‘good news’ look like for those suffering from poor mental health? Surely, it is the recovery of a sense of belonging, of having value, of being affirmed, and able to achieve their potential. What does good news look like for families struggling with debt and broken relationships? Surely it looks like support, friendship and homes where children are cherished and are able to both give and receive love. What does good news look like for kids who are labelled as being under-achievers and ‘problems’? Surely it means having their strengths and gifts recognised and affirmed so that they can flourish, learn and reach their potential in all aspects of their lives. What does good news look like for the house-bound elderly and isolated? Surely it means receiving support that gives them their dignity, and people around them who listen and care about them; who gratefully acknowledge what they have contributed in earlier days, and still contribute today. What does good news mean for people in the LBGTI communities who are stigmatised and afraid to live into their identity? Surely it means being able to get on with their lives constructively, recognised for who they are as valued members of any community. What underpins all of this is the good news of a love stronger than death itself, stronger than all the prejudice the world throws at people; bigger, more generous, welcoming and hopeful. At Easter we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ as a sign to all people that life can be well lived, fully lived, in the knowledge that we are all one, that our diversity is a gift and that no one is left out. Building communities of hope for people who are in any way bewildered, lost or isolated is what the church is all about, and that has to be good news. Revd David M A Evans is Team Rector, Brereton, Rugeley and Armitage Team Ministry.
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Your Image Competition calling all photographers and artists!
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e’re always amazed by the sheer talent of our readers and we hope that you enjoy this latest selection of images submitted to our Your Image Competition.
The Competition will close on Thursday 12th April 2018, when all images will be submitted to our independent judges. Those images selected as ‘Highly Commended’, and the final winner will be announced in the June 2018 issue. The winner of the Your Image Competition will receive a £100 prize and a trophy. The competition is open to all ages. Photographs, paintings and drawings should be of Cannock Chase and the surrounding area
and countryside. Please note that you should own the copyright to any image that you send in and the image should be your own work. If sending in a photograph, please make sure that you have permission to submit the image from any individual who may be pictured in your work, and also appropriate permissions if the image was taken on private property. To enter, email your images to citylifecompetitions@gmail.com or post them to Your Image Competition, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. Apologies but we cannot return images posted to us. For terms and conditions see page 34
Brocton reflections by Simon Wilberforce At the brook in the snow by Marita Deeley
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My lambs, Abbotts Bromley by Geoffrey Bishop
Long tailed tit landing on a teasel, image taken by Freda’s Grave on Cannock Chase by Steve Higgins
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Your Image Competition
Continued Rugeley Power Station, taken from Castle Ring by Bryon Edwards
Longdon harvest, Hawkesyard lakes by Simon Wilberforce
Original painting of Lea Hall Colliery by John Hewitt
Birches Valley in the snow by Keith Marriott
Magical Cannock Chase by Sharon Jenkins
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Woodend Lane by Jay Pendleton
Kingfisher, Doxy Marshes by Roger Booth
Bambi on Cannock Chase by Keith Marriott
Copyright of these images remains with the creators and Citylife in Lichfield Ltd and they may not be reproduced by any unauthorised individual or organisation.
Rugeley Town Council News
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lanned local council tax for Cannock Chase Council includes an amount of money apportioned to Rugeley Town Council which is called the Precept. Councillors kept the precept down to a 1% increase this year to cover inflation and additional projects that the Town Council are looking to run.
January saw the start of the Rugeley Work Club which runs e v e r y Tuesday morning from 10am to 12pm in the Rose Theatre. Individuals will get friendly support and guidance on any employment issues including interview techniques, help with CVs and up to date details of jobs in the area. This is a very informal and relaxed group where just chatting over your issues with members of the team whilst having a cup of tea and a biscuit may make all the difference.
The council continue to support the Rugeley Art Society which meets every Wednesday evening 7.30pm to 9pm in the Rose Theatre to learn different artistic styles and expressions. All abilities are welcome. The aim is to further develop your own artistic flair and meet likeminded people. The course is free but you will need to provide your own materials. For more information, please contact Derek on 07837 835962.
The Town Council are looking at improving local play facilities. They are initially looking at the possibility of improving Green Lane play area, working with the land owners and others to offer more challenging play for a wider age group.
The annual Charter Fair will again be held at Green Lane field on the 9th June 2018. Letters have been delivered to all residents adjacent to the field to advise of procedures for the day. Should you wish to run a stall at the Charter Fair or have a float in the parade, please contact the Town Council on 01889 547074 or email finance@rugeleytowncouncil.gov.uk
Other activities in development through the year include setting up a youth council which will run alongside the full town council and developing a living history project where memories and experiences will be collected and displayed around the town. In addition the council will also be providing the fireworks in November and the Christmas Lights.
Rugeley Town Council continues to offer two types of grants to assist the local Rugeley community: Small Grants and Urban Orchard Grants. The small grants are awarded to local organisations to assist them to achieve their aims and objectives. The Council has a policy of assisting local community groups based in Rugeley or national bodies with an independent branch in Rugeley, providing support to residents of Rugeley. The Urban Orchard Grant is to encourage groups and individuals to grow fruit and vegetables which will be freely available. For more information about these grant schemes, please go to www.rugeleytowncouncil.gov.uk
A weekly afternoon tea for senior residents started in February at the Rose Theatre. The afternoon tea takes place every We d n e s d a y between 12 noon and 2pm and costs £2 - the Town Council would like to thank Tesco for their support. The afternoon also includes the opportunity to stay for a chat or join in with a game of bingo. To book a place, please call 01889 584036.
Rugeley Town Council is working with Amanda Milling MP’s office to run two Jobs Fairs this year – the first will be held on Friday 20th April. Local companies who have employment opportunities are being invited to come along to promote their vacancies to the local job seekers. For more information call the council on 01889 574074.
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Unearthing History
Here, Gary Starkey, local metal detectorist gives us an update in his ‘detecting diaries’.
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y near neighbour Dave has recently bought a house nextdoor to his own which comes with a largish lawn, so I asked if it was OK to give it a scan with my trusty and recently repaired Safari detector - he said ‘no problem’. I found some rubbishy bits at first but right at the bottom of the lawn I had a good signal. Digging down about six inches I saw a red tile lying flat in the ground, but the signal was still there so I prized the tile carefully out and lying below it was a round disc. I picked it out and brushed the loose soil off it, and could see a standing figure but it wasn’t too clear. I thought it could be a suffragette badge so I took it home after showing Dave for more research. I cleaned it up and was surprised to see the figure was a knight in armour with a shield. On the shield were three lions and on the other side of the knight was the England flag. It had some words over the top which still haven’t been deciphered. A lovely early find which looked like it had been placed under the tile deliberately! Just goes to show you never know when something wonderful is going to turn up! I’m yet to show Dave the item cleaned up but I’m sure he’ll be pleased to see it as he is very interested in historical items, having produced his own silver coins based on James I coinage for an island project in the Hebrides. Just after Christmas, I spoke to another David – a farmer who lives in our village, about detecting again on his fields as I hadn’t been back for about three years. He knows where old trackways and a certain Saxon settlement area is, and he kindly gave me permission. I asked my detecting partner Paul to come along as it’s a huge area and quite remote. On our first time out we found what looked like a large Saxon 26
pin-head, a buckle and Roman coin. On our second time out we tried a grass field with a slope, and between us we found five Roman coins including two Lance Sestertius coins and a Republic silver coin. Also, a first for me, an Irish hammered coin. I also found a large lead gaming piece and a lovely spindle whorl with decoration on it. Paul had three Roman Brooches and we both found a few lead rolled up Roman curses. These seem quite common so the Romans must have been falling out with each other quite often! We hope to get back up there often and soon. It’s near an area where I found my Bronze Age axe-head a few years ago and so we
hope something like that may surface again. We have been very quiet at the club lately due to bad weather and difficulty in finding land and suitable parking, but this should pick up soon. Three of us are going to a rally in February to Ely in the Fens so are quite hopeful for some good finds. I will report next time if anything good has come up.
If anyone out there would like myself or our club to do a dig on your land, please call me to discuss. We do charity digs, midweek digs or Sunday digs and we pay for the privilege of detecting. If you’d like a chat about this, just call me (Gary) on 0777 906 4271.
The Mid Staffordshire REMAP Panel
REMAP is a national charity which has been operating for more than fifty years and whilst officially the name is an acronym for Rehabilitation Mobility Advisory Panel, it may be easier to remember and understand as Retired Engineers Making Aids for People! The organisation has around 1,500 volunteers nationally working across 80 independent regional panels, many of whom are retired engineers and craftspeople. Their aim is to design and make equipment for people with disabilities, provided that no suitable product is available commercially. In addition, the REMAP panels will consider modifying existing equipment. REMAP addresses a gap in the community care system by designing, manufacturing and supplying customised equipment to help people achieve independence and enjoy a better quality of life. Providing tailormade equipment for people’s individual needs enables them to carry out essential day to day tasks or to take part in leisure, occupations and sport that may otherwise prove impossible. Referrals are received from both healthcare professionals and individuals or their families. All REMAP equipment is supplied free of charge and each panel raises their own finances locally. The Mid Staffordshire REMAP Panel comprises of 13 active members who meet once a month at Mansefield House in Rugeley between 10am and 12pm on the second Wednesday of each month. The group promotes its services through talks and exhibitions and is always keen to welcome new donors and volunteers. For more information please visit www.remap.org.uk or call The Panel Chairman Peter Chandler on 01283 791832
J HOWELL & DAUGHTERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS LICHFIELD
LICHFIELD’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED INDEPENDENT, FAMILY RUN FUNERAL DIRECTORS. SECOND GENERATION BUSINESS HERE TO ASSIST YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. 24 hours a day
We are proud to be Lichfield's longest established family run funeral directors offering a wide range of choices to suit all requirements. Horse drawn hearse, non religious ceremonies, floral tributes and memorials are but a few of the services we offer. Pre-paid funeral plans are also available.
For a truly personal service please call
01543 255776
Private Chapel of Rest 116 Netherstowe, Lichfield, Staffs. WS13 6TS
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A visit to Hamstall Ridware
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By Kate Gomez
amstall is one of the four ‘Ridwares’ along with Pipe, Mavesyn and Hill, and lies to the north of the River Trent, around four miles east of Rugeley. The River Blythe passes by the parish church of St Michael and All Angels, which was founded in the mid 12th century and some stonework from the Norman building survives. Other features from this period include two Romanesque fonts, one of which was moved here from St James’ church in Pipe Ridware when the church was closed for worship in 1983. The other, which presumably was the original font for St Michael’s, is used as a planter outside in the churchyard. In 1817, a 14th century chalice and paten belonging to the church were dug up at Hamstall Hall Farm where it is thought they had been buried for safekeeping during the Civil War. Other surviving relics from the medieval period include the base of a churchyard cross and a fragment of its original shaft. Back inside the church, a Tudor arch and rose are carved into the 16th century choir seats which are believed to have come from Lichfield Cathedral. A description of them in the Staffordshire Advertiser in 1927, suggests they were once known locally as ‘gauby seats’, after the farm boys who once used them. A ‘gauby’ appears to have been a derogatory Staffordshire dialect word used to describe country servants. Both inside and outside the church, there are monuments to members of the Stronginthearm family who were yeoman farmers of the parish with their own crest depicting arms holding swords and the motto ‘God is our hope’.
Visible from the churchyard are some of the remains of Hamstall Hall which passed from the Cotton family to the Fitzherberts in the early 1500s, and then to Sir Thomas Leigh of Stoneleigh Abbey in 1601. It’s said that four counties can be seen from the top of the derelict watch tower, which dates to the 15th century, but given that the structure is on the heritage at risk list and at risk of collapse, it would perhaps be unwise to put this to the test. Other surviving parts of the hall include a Tudor porch and a gateway with two octagonal turrets
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which have been converted to dovecotes. In June 1806, the parish register describes how the Rector Edward Cooper led parishioners on a procession around the village boundary, starting at Gallows Green, along the Yoxall Road and proceeding towards the River Trent. Later that summer, his cousin, Jane Austen and one of the village’s most famous visitors came to stay with him at the Rectory. Jane spent five weeks at Hamstall Ridware and it is thought that the author’s time in the village provided inspiration for the fictional Delaford in ‘Sense and Sensibility’.
Sources:
historicengland.org.uk
A Topographical History of Staffordshire by William Pitt (1817)
The Church of St Michael and All Angels Hamstall Ridware Church Guidebook ridwarehistory.yolasite.com
English Dialect Dictionary Online
Rugeley & District Lions Club News
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By Peter Fielding
he Countess of Wessex G.C.V.O. as Patron of Lions Clubs of the British Isles held a Royal Reception at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, 28th February to celebrate a ‘Century of Service’. HRH has been its Patron since 2004. President Jane Stevenson
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from Rugeley & District Lions Club recently joined in the 100th Birthday celebrations with hundreds of volunteers who came together with the organisations’ partners for this special occasion at Buckingham Palace.
During March the Club helped Marie Curie with its annual collection at Morrisons in Rugeley.
In April we will be helping the British Legion at the ANZAC Parade at the Commonwealth Cemetery on Cannock Chase.
Discussions are in hand for a Fashion Show to be held in Rugeley around June. Details to be announced shortly – watch out for further details.
Our postponed Lion Hunt is also in hand and we are hopeful of giving fuller details soon.
Rugeley and District Lions Club are members of Lions Clubs International. We are part of a global network of 1.4 million volunteers. When a humanitarian crisis strikes,
Lions Clubs International Foundation work with and are guided by their own Lions members who are ordinary people present on the ground. As the World's largest voluntary, non-governmental organisation, our volunteers fundraise in their own local communities with every penny raised being used to help those in need. We don't spend money on fancy fundraising campaigns and the cost of running the club is covered by members’ subs. It can prove difficult providing aid but we are committed not to waste the money entrusted to Lions by the public, ensuring it can genuinely help victims of a disaster. Lions Clubs of the British Isles are very grateful for the public support, which enables us to commit to solving long-term problems through our presence in local communities throughout the world.
If you would like know more or come along and join in with us to see exactly what we do (and how we do it!) we can be contacted via Facebook or our e-mail address at randdlions@hotmail.com . You are assured a warm welcome.
Win a ‘Kick Start to Spring’ package at Gymophobics Rugeley worth £100!
ymophobics is a ladies-only gym that combines brilliant, effective, exercise programmes (tailored to meet each member’s needs) with a team who are quite simply some of the loveliest people you will meet. Gymophobics, at 3 Market Street, Rugeley, specialises in low impact exercise. This means that whatever your goals and fitness levels, the professional and caring team at Gymophobics can design your perfect fitness programme. No-one who walks through the door is ever made to feel uncomfortable, and with monthly memberships starting at less than £30, it’s like having your own personal trainer without the high price tag!
Win, Win, Win!
Citylife has got together with Gymophobics Rugeley to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a ‘Kick Start to Spring’ package, which includes six weeks free gym membership, unlimited vibro-plate usage, a free Detox Course, a Low Sugar Diet Booklet, a Low Carb Recipe Book and a home exercise DVD worth £100! What better way to start your journey to fitness – absolutely free! There are no strings attached, no hidden costs and no obligation to extend your membership.
To be in with a chance of winning a ‘Kick Start to Spring’ package, just answer the following question.
Gymophobics Rugeley can be found at: A. B. C.
3 Anson Street, Rugeley 3 Brewery Street, Rugeley 3 Market Street, Rugeley
To enter, send your answer (A, B or C), name and contact details to Gymophobics Competition*, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS or email citylifecompetitions@gmail.com by the competition closing date of Friday 13th April. Entrants must be over 18. For full competition terms and condition see page 34. *Gymophobics Rugeley will contact the winner to arrange their prize, and may contact entrants offering them a free trial session at Gymophobics Rugeley. If you do not wish to be contacted please include the words ‘OPT OUT’ in your entry. Competition and offer is open to non members only.
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Objects
Beautiful, desirable and destined to become heirloom pieces, treasured for years to come - objects of desire are the kind of investment pieces that are a sheer joy to behold...
of Desire
£6,995
£5,750
A pave' set diamond ring in 18ct white gold set with 2ct of brilliant cut diamonds. Available to view at City Jewellers of Lichfield
Richly embellished 125 piece dinner service for 12 people, by British Designer Clive Christian in 'Empire Flame - Gold Highlight' design. Available from Arthur Price
£3,950
Stockist: City Jewellers of Lichfield, 39 Market Street, Lichfield, WS13 6LA. Arthur Price, Britannia Way, Lichfield. WS14 9UY.
The Probus Club of Rugeley
Rugeley Probus Club is a small friendly group for retired and semi-retired men and women to meet others with similar interests and make new friends. The club meets at St Paul’s Church Social Rooms on Lichfield Street in Rugeley on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month from 10am until 12pm. New members are welcome to join in with a varied programme of interesting speakers, monthly lunches and a range of day trips. On Wednesday 11th April there is a talk on ‘Birds, Bugs and Roundabouts’ by Professor Simon Leather and on Wednesday 25th April, Chrissy Whereat will be giving a talk called ‘Barking Mad’. For more information, please contact Neil Gardner on 01952 691411.
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18ct white gold diamond set bubble ring set with nine brilliant cut diamonds totalling 2ct. Available to view at City Jewellers of Lichfield
£8,795 18ct white gold line bracelet, set with over 6ct of diamonds. Available to view at City Jewellers of Lichfield
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£320
From £275
£130
Lifestyle Footstool made with beech legs shown in Warwick Fabrics wool Available from Ralvern Upholstery
End of bed/window seat, in a variety of fabrics and colours - Available from Mr B's Upholstery
Classic chaise longue, in an abundance of fabrics and colours Available from Mr B's Upholstery
£275
Beautiful Homes in Spring
Wingback fireside chair, in a multitude of fabrics and colour combinations - Available from Mr B's Upholstery
From stylish furniture to stunning floorings, Spring is the perfect time to explore new interior design ideas for beautiful homes...
Chaise lounge double arm shown in Cristina Marrone Designer Fabrics Available from Ralvern Upholstery
£740
£821
Classic wing chair shown in Porter and Stone wool - Available from Ralvern Upholstery
Special Offer over Easter period on the finest quality laminate from £8.99 per sq.mtr - Available from Gem Carpets
£1,120
Paris style chair with black mahogany chrome castored legs shown in Ross Fabrics – Available from Ralvern Upholstery
Stockists: Ralvern Upholstery, Unit 19 Martindale Business Park, Hawks Green, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 7XN. Gem Carpets and Beds, Unit 7, Trent Business Park, Power Station Road, Rugeley. WS15 2HS. Mr B's Upholstery, Unit 5, West Cannock Way, Walkers Rise, Rugeley Road, Hednesford, WS12 0QU
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Cannock and District Ladies Probus
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By Jill Gooch
utgoing Chairman Pam Clarke recently hosted the A.G.M. of Cannock Ladies Probus at The Chase Golf and Country Club, Pottal Pool. Chairman Pam thanked all the officers who had helped ensure she had a successful and enjoyable year of office; and was pleased that all the officers would be staying in post for the following year except our Attendance Secretaries who had
been doing a very efficient job for the last five years - Gill Hackett and Ann Legg. Members had enjoyed a variety of speakers, trips and holidays during the year, and were looking forward to a similarly varied programme, planned by the new Chairman Sheila Burrows who was welcomed in to office with a change of insignia.
Probus had its beginnings when it was created by members of Rotary who wanted to meet socially on retirement. The name ‘Probus’ was taken from the first three letters of “PROfessional and BUSiness”. Meetings Cannock and for District Ladies Probus are held on the first Thursday of each month at The Chase Golf and Country Club where they share a meal, and usually have a speaker. Members now come from all walks of life and are warmly welcomed. The Annual Dinner is Thursday 3rd May 2018 at The Chase when the speaker will be Lesley Smith, Curator at Tutbury Castle, recreating the character of an important woman from history. For further information contact the secretary 01543 505578 and www.probusonline.org
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MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTORS WANTED
Earn extra money delivering magazines in various areas. Must be over 16
Call Marie 07548 682576
Are You a Coin Collector?
If you’re a coin collector, visit Gary Starkey's coin cabinet in Lichfield Antique Centre (next to Minster Pool), Lichfield for coins and artefacts from early to modern. For more information call 07779 064271
Easter Sunday and Monday 1st/2nd April Plant Hunters’ Fair at the Dorothy Clive Garden On A51 North of Stone (TF9 4EU). 10am-5pm. Special event with entry to the plant fair and beautiful 12-acre gardens just £4.00 (garden normally £8.50) The plant fair continues to attract the cream of specialist nurseries and there will be something for everyone from alpines to ornamental trees; from azaleas to asters on the 20 stalls. Full calendar of fairs: www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk
Sunday 8th April Plant Hunters’ Fair at Middleton Hall Nr Tamworth. B78 2AE 10am – 4.00pm A wonderful plant fair at this Staffordshire gem with entry to the Gardens, Grounds, Hall and Plant Fair all for just £2.00 so why not bring your friends and family to make a day of it. Plant fair featuring 18 highly-respected specialist nurseries with a great range of perennials, shrubs and trees. See the full calendar of fairs at www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk Competition and Prize Draw Terms and Conditions 1. By entering the prize draw/competition, you agree to the terms and condition stated. 2.The closing date is stated on each individual prize draw or competition. 3.Where stated in the competition that a clearly stated competition partner will contact the entrants after the competition with news, stories and offers, entrant’s contact details will be passed to this competition partner for these marketing purposes only. As stated in the competition/prize draw, if you do not wish to receive marketing information from the competition partner stated, please add the words OPT OUT to your entry. For a copy of Citylife in Lichfield Ltd’s privacy policy please write to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. 4.By entering the competition/prize draw, entrants agree to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd using or publishing materials provided by the entrants in any of their publications and online. 5.Citylife in Lichfield Ltd accepts no responsibility for any breach of copyright or breach of any other legislation entailed by entrants in their creation or submission of materials. 6.Only one entry per prize draw/competition, per reader. 7.Except in the case of cash prizes, no cash equivalent will be offered and the prize
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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.
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