Citylife in Lichfield September 2018 by Citylife In Lichfield

Inside... September 2018

Welcome to CITYLIFE

Welcome to CITYLIFE in Lichfield, a monthly magazine bringing you our pick of the city’s news, events and stories. Each month CITYLIFE in Lichfield is delivered to 18,000 businesses and homes in Lichfield, Kings Bromley, Fradley, Alrewas, Whittington, Stonnall, Shenstone, Little Aston, Hammerwich, Burntwood and Longdon, completely free of charge; bringing you the best that the city has to offer. Each issue features heritage stories exploring the rich history of our area, plus competitions, interviews and the latest in fashion and style.

Got a story or charity event you want to share with our readership? Think you’ve snapped an image that captures the spirit of the city? We want to hear from you! Our business is bringing you Lichfield’s city life.

6 Win Afternoon Tea for Two Courtesy of McKenzie's Restaurant

26 Down to the Sea By Carl Knibb ARBSA

30 James Thomas Law By Jono Oates

32 City View News from your Council

36 Window on the Past A Trip to Bakers Lane

44 Hidden Spaces Exploring the Bishop's Palace Chapel

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 Production - Helen Smith 07967 154187 helencitylife@gmail.com

Citylife In Lichfield Ltd PO Box 7126 LICHFIELD WS14 4JS CITYLIFE in Lichfield and CITYLIFE in Rugeley magazines are not connected to any other publication or publisher, and are wholly owned by CITYLIFE in Lichfield Ltd. Citylife In Lichfield

www.citylifeinlichfieldltd.co.uk Citylife in Lichfield Ltd does not endorse any business or organisation appearing in these pages, and the publication of any advertisement, editorial, event listing or advertising editorial does not constitute an endorsement by Citylife in Lichfield Ltd.

Win Afternoon Tea for Two at McKenzie's Restaurant

Located in the heart of Lichfield, enjoy all-day dining seven days a week. McKenzie’s Restaurant delivers signature cattle steaks, fish, and poultry dishes alongside a selection of salads, sumptuous vegetarian dishes, and lighter bites, all perfectly complemented by a diverse wine list. Housed in the old Corn Exchange building it is the ideal place to celebrate any event, whether a small family gathering, a romantic meal for two or a lavish feast for 50. Diners enjoy an unforgettable dining experience with a selection of delectable dishes. With the finest ingredients freshly prepared and served with pride, there is a menu to meet every need, whether business or pleasure, intimate or extravagant. Traditional Afternoon Tea at McKenzie’s Restaurant is an enduring custom where you can choose from a range of loose-leaf teas, enjoy a variety of finger sandwiches, the cake of the day and warm scones accompanied by strawberry preserve and clotted cream. Priced at £14.50 per person, prepared and served fresh each day from 3pm6pm. Why not indulge in one of the finest British traditions.

To win Afternoon Tea for Two, just unscramble the anagram, and rearrange the letters to find a crumbly sweet treat that's baked to perfection.

ARTBOHSDRE __________

To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to McKenzie’s Competition at citylifecompetitions@gmail.com or post your entry to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS by the competition closing date of Friday 28th September. One entry per household. Multiple entries will be disqualified. Winners will not be offered a cash equivalent. Please note you must be 18 or over to enter. All entrants’ information is processed in line with GDPR Data Protection Regulations and our Privacy Policy. To view our Privacy Policy go to citylifeinlichfieldltd.co.uk. Full competition terms and conditions on page 50. Congratulations to Julia Wood who has won Afternoon Tea for Two at McKenzie's by answering the anagram in the August issue.

Staffordshire’s Lost £12 Million

ocal charities make up the lifeblood of communities and make a daily difference to millions of people. The ‘Revitalising Trusts’ initiative, announced in the Government’s Civil Society strategy in August, will provide a huge boost to local charities by distributing funds from inactive trusts to good causes which total vast sums across the UK with Staffordshire currently sitting on £12 million that could, if made active from dormant funds, fill many funding gaps in the local voluntary sector.

There are many charitable trust funds in England and Wales that are inactive. The original founders and trustees may have passed away and many of the funds are now relatively small pots of money which makes it difficult to ensure they have a meaningful and local impact. Collectively these trusts amount to a significant amount which could make a huge difference to local communities. The Community Foundation For Staffordshire are professional community fund managers. Part of a UK-wide network of organisations they have ‘activated’ many dormant trusts and funds across Staffordshire and with the support of this latest Government initiative want to not only realise funds already identified by Government but also find other dormant monies that can be used to help local communities, both now, and in the future. They are calling on people who know of dormant funds; to contact them to identify if the money can be realised for the greater

good. With an excellent track record The Community Foundation For Staffordshire have, via investment by their fund managers, substantially increased the original sum of many dormant funds so that more people and more groups can benefit. Examples include ‘The J S Brown Bequest’, which was a small fund for the benefit of Lichfield worth less than £6,000. It was one of the founder trusts of We Love Lichfield, which now awards more than £40,000 every year to voluntary groups across the whole of Lichfield district. The Office for Civil Society and the Charity Commission are working with the UK Community Foundations to transfer millions of pounds of inactive trusts funds to local Community Foundations to invest into their communities. It is expected that this will provide an extra £1million in grant funding to local community and voluntary groups every year. Community Foundations are established, trusted local fund management specialists that support local communities across the UK. Community Foundations reach every postcode in the UK and focus on the most pressing needs in an area. Community Foundations are leading grant makers and have a strong track record of supporting communities. They are reliable with a trusted model of delivery and are all quality accredited. The Charity Commission and the Office for Civil Society have chosen to work with Community Foundations based on their expertise and experience in supporting communities and ensuring that funds are distributed well to tackle local need.

Bring us your silver stars! By Adrian Rathbone of Hansons Auctioneers and Valuers

ensational silver and two well-known faces are joining forces in Lichfield to help charity – and they want you to help them make memories with your silver treasures. Simon Price, CEO of the city’s Arthur Price cutlery and silverware company, and Charles Hanson, of Hansons Auctioneers, a familiar face on TV shows like Bargain Hunt, have teamed up to shine the spotlight on their love of all things silver. On October 15, from noon till 4pm, ‘Living a Lichfield Legacy - A Day of Discovery’ will be held at the Arthur Price Factory Shop, Britannia Way, Lichfield to enable people to celebrate and learn more about the city’s silver heritage. The event, exploring 200 years of silver history, will be completely free but donations will be invited for charity We Love Lichfield which supports community projects. Simon is Patron of We Love Lichfield. Charles Hanson said: “I’m delighted to be coming to Lichfield to help this good cause and tell people about my passion for silver through the centuries and quality tableware. Lichfield has a sparkling silver history thanks to Arthur Price, a firm full of provenance and pedigree which has been manufacturing silver and plated goods for more than 100 years. What dusty old objects or nostalgic antiques have you got with a story

to tell which Simon and I can learn about? Dust down your dining table, look through your drawers, dig out your unused silver cutlery and bring it along. Let’s make this a day to celebrate Lichfield and Staffordshire’s heritage.” As well as meeting Simon and Charles, free silver valuations will be available with Hansons’ silver expert Victoria Sheppard, formerly of Christie’s. Visitors can also browse the wares in the Arthur Price Factory Shop. Simon Price, whose greatgrandfather Arthur Price established the family business in 1902, added: “It’s great that two businesses are working together to help the local community. I’m really looking forward to hearing people’s stories and celebrating this wonderful place that we live, and raising money for We Love Lichfield that helps local voluntary groups.” People are welcome to drop into the October 15 event at the Arthur Price Factory Shop, Britannia Way, Lichfield,WS14 9UY, anytime between noon and 4pm. To find out more, email factory.shop@arthurprice.com or phone 01283 733988

The Great Exhibition in Pictures Lichfield Cathedral’s “The Great Exhibition - Imagine Peace” has seen thousands of people flock to see this remarkable and breath-taking event where the Cathedral is transformed with sound, light and installations in new and exciting ways. Lichfield Cathedral's artist in residence Peter Walker and Luxmuralis are the creative team behind ’Imagine Peace’, which ran from 17th -27th August and was the biggest and most adventurous event of its kind so far, with visitors taken through a series of moving, beautiful and striking artworks and installations. Images by Chris Day. All artwork copyright Peter Walker Sculptor and Luxmuralis.

Welcoming ‘The Real Life Lovejoy’ By Richard Winterton of Richard Winterton Auctioneers

We see more than our fair share of ‘bobby dazzlers’ here at Richard Winterton Auctioneers so we were really spoiled when the much-loved antique expert and TV presenter David Dickinson dropped in for filming. ‘The Duke’, who was also once dubbed ‘The Real-Life Lovejoy’, visited us at Fradley Park recently to film an auction segment of ‘Dickinson’s Real Deal’ following a valuation event at Wolverhampton Racecourse. During this latest visit in July, David was kind enough to pose for photos and even gave us a very special shout-out on video. In fact, the Duke kindly said: “Richard Winterton is a good friend of mine and I can tell you this: this is one hell of a great auction house.” David is a great friend and a pleasure to welcome to Richard Winterton Auctioneers. He pops in relatively regularly with his crew, but it’s always an event, and very

enjoyable to play host to and feature in one of the most popular daytime shows on ITV. Now back for a 15th series, Dickinson’s Real Deal is regularly watched by over a million people. An album of pictures taken by our photographer Damian Briden during David’s visit can be viewed over on our Facebook page @RichardWintertonAuctioneers. We’ve been involved with Dickinson’s Real Deal for many years and it’s always great fun to welcome David to Lichfield. If you missed seeing

David this time, don’t despair – he will be bringing Dickinson’s Real Deal back here again on September 26, which will be in the middle of our second Three Day Home & Interior Sale of that month, taking place from Tuesday to Thursday September 25-27.

The Month in Pictures

August

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

Baseball Camp Beacon Park, with Mayor and Mayoress of Lichfield

Buttons at the Imagine Peace Exhibition, Lichfield Cathedral

Lichfield Civic Society visit to the Garrison Church, DMS Whitttington Images by Jono Oates www.jonotourism.co.uk

Family Fun Day rides, Beacon Park

Lichfield Grub Club, Lichfield Cathedral

World War Commemoration, Garrison Church, DMS Whittington

Lichfield Food Festival

Baseball Summer Camp Beacon Park

Family Fun Day at Beacon Park

Lichfield Farmers' Market, Market Square

Patchwork quilts, Imagine Peace Exhibition, Lichfield Cathedral

Lichfield Food Festival

Gymophobics Lichfield celebrate their 15th anniversary

Advertising Feature

his is a huge success story for husband and wife team Andy and Stephanie, who are enthusiastic advocates for the renowned exercise system, first devised by Donna Hubbard in 2003. “Initially I joined Gymophobics as a part time instructor when I saw an advert in the local paper, having a passion for fitness I thought this would be the ideal position for me. After a short period I became a full time instructor and went on to become the assistant manager. Then in 2006 there was an opportunity for us to own our own franchise and we opened in Tamworth. Then in 2014 Lichfield Gymophobics was being sold and we took the opportunity to purchase Lichfield as well. At the time before we reopened we did a complete refurbishment of the Lichfield Gym, employed a new enthusiastic experienced team which gave the gym a whole new energetic vibe;” said Stephanie, who, as well as Lichfield, operates Gymophobics in Tamworth. Stephanie also went on to say: “Our first year as the new owners of Lichfield will be one we never forget as at the annual Gymophobics awards gala dinner, we went on to win, Most improved Gym of the year, Best performing Gym of the year, National gym of the year and National Instructor of the year.” Stephanie also added: ”The thing I love the most about the Gymophobics ethos is that they know everyone is different and I have a fantastic team of instructors across the two centres who are ready to help everyone on their Gymophobics journey:”

“I joined Gymophobics in 2006 on the recommendation of my sister-in-law. Having always had a weight problem, at my heaviest being over 26 stone, I was searching for a ladies-only gym that I felt I could do and really enjoy. I found exactly that at Gymophobics. Some years later I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis and several other joint problems due in part to the strain of being overweight for so many years and not in any way connected to my exercise regime.I thought that that was the end of my gym workouts but not a bit of it. When I was given leave to return a complete new programme was designed for the problems I have and with ongoing tweaks I once again enjoy exercising. The sugar free diet I find easy to do and have lost five stone. Manager Andrea keeps me on the right path weight wise and she and all instructors are so helpful and encouraging. Top all the above with a lovely social atmosphere. Such a large part of my lifestyle. Long live Gymophobics." V.H.

"I've found that Gymophobics has become a way of life for me. Being a sufferer with Rheumatoid Arthritis it's important to keep joints moving at the same time keeping trim." V.J.

"On retirement I realised that there could be a danger of leading a sedentary, and perhaps even a solitary life. Having seen Gymophobics mantra, an interview with Linda (Lichfield) assured me that the programme was for alI ages and levels of fitness, so I joined! I intend to remain a member as long as I am able or untill Gymophobics tells me that I'm too old! Incidentally, the social scene is not to be missed." E.K.

"Returned to Gymophobics after a few years and within weeks felt fitter and lost inches. Glad I made the effort to rejoin. Instructors are very professional and understanding. Good atmosphere." C.

“Gymophobics has been a part of my life since 2005. I fitted two sessions a week into a busy work schedule and I am sure this helped give me more stamina for my job. I now come along to Gymophobics three times a week, I just love the 30 minute workouts and the innovative 5 minute blasts. I can't envisage life without Gymophobics." G.

Lichfield Operatic Society present My Fair Lady

ichfield Operatic Society’s production of My Fair Lady from September 25 to 29 is a real family affair. Emma Hill, who makes her directorial debut with the company, actually played Eliza 15 years ago. Emma’s maiden name was Rainsford and parents Martin and Pauline are both in the show. Her husband Ed Hill is working backstage, brother Stephen Rainsford is lighting designer and brother-in-law James Pugh is playing Colonel Pickering. Emma commented: “I was really excited when LOS asked me to direct, especially on a show that means so much to me! We have an incredibly talented cast who have been working hard to put on a great show and I can’t wait for

our audiences to see it.” Lichfield Operatic’s production features Vickie Beck as Eliza, Richard Poynton as Henry, Chris Stanley as Dolittle and James Pugh as Pickering. Hailed by critics and audiences for its heart and its wit, Lerner and Loewe's My Fair Lady is a poignant and timeless musical sure to make audiences laugh and cry.

Set in 1912 London and featuring classic show tunes such as Wouldn't It Be Loverly, I Could Have Danced All Night and On The Street Where You Live, this is a production for all the family. My Fair Lady runs at the Lichfield Garrick from September 25 to 29, at 7.30pm, plus a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets from the Garrick on 01543 412121 or online: www.lichfieldgarrick.com.

Your Garden in September By Byron Lewis

hat a summer it's been! The heatwave has been great, but it's also meant many summer flowering patio plants are well past their best. If they have completely gone over, now is the time to replant with things that will see you through until the spring. For pots and containers use pansies, violas and spring flowering bulbs. Add in a few heathers and conifers for foliage colour and small pots of shrubs to give further interest and your patio will look colourful right through to next spring with little effort. Other plants to consider include hebe and chrysanthemum. Talking of bulbs, September is an ideal time for bulb planting. Dwarf daffodils, tulip, iris and crocus are all now readily available - plant now for years of spring colour for very little work. We always recommend using a small handful of bonemeal in the planting hole for your bulbs - this feeds the roots leading to bigger bulbs and better blooms! Many cottage garden plants still look good despite the earlier heat. Perennial plants are just coming into their own right now. Try Michaelmas daisies (Aster varieties) for a large show of daisy-like flowers from whites to pinks and blues. Japanese anemones also have good autumn blooms, while Rudbeckia and Crocosmia will continue the show through to October. If your lawn has turned crispy and brown over the last few months, don't worry too much, as any rain we get will hopefully help your turf to recover pretty well. It's worth applying a weed and feed product to your lawn this month - this will encourage further new growth and keep down the moss and weeds. Allotments and vegetable plots have also suffered badly this year, but as the cooler autumn and winter days approach, crops such as Spring cabbage, broad beans, kale and more can be planted as seedlings now and will mature over the next few months, while fast growers like Spring onion, lettuce and radish will be ready before Christmas. Also consider planting seed potatoes for a Christmas crop - use the special tubers available now and around 14 weeks after planting, you can harvest a supply of new potatoes. Byron Lewis runs Lichfield Garden Centre at Curborough Countryside Centre, Watery Lane, Lichfield. Tel 01543 254306 or visit www.lichfieldgardencentre.co.uk.

Advertising Feature

Explore your creativity at Stonehouse Studios

Stonehouse Studios offers a range of arts and craft courses for those who wish to experiment and enjoy being creative. It is run by artist practitioner Karen Bird who has many years experience of teaching all ages and abilities. Autumn courses run for 12 weeks starting week commencing 17th September. These hands-on courses include: Pottery, Sculpture, Life Sculpture, Portrait Drawing and Painting, General Art including Printmaking. Go to www.stonehousestudios.co.uk for further details. The Garden Studio at Stonehouse Farm, Drayton Bassett, is an inspiring place to learn and be creative as students are surrounded by a variety of sculptures, large and small ceramic vessels, plates and plaques, prints, drawings and paintings. The studio is located in beautiful, rural surroundings and is easily accessible from Lichfield, Tamworth and Sutton Coldfield. Karen facilitates the needs of others with a passion for art. Her aim is to give each the opportunity to develop creative skills. She also offers flexibility during the week should anyone be unable to attend on their enrolment day, then an alternative time or day is easily arranged. Karen, and her vision for Stonehouse Studios as a private art school, is to enrich lives though art. Stonehouse Studios can be found at Stonehouse Farm, Drayton Lane, Drayton Bassett, B78 3EF. Call 01827 289764 or 01827 247147 or go to www.stonehousestudios.co.uk for further details or an informal chat about the course youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for.

Lichfield Arts in September

n September 7th, the singer songwriter Lisbee Stainton will be making her Guildhall debut. Now five albums into her career, in 2007 she became the first unsigned artist to play London’s O2 Arena, where soon after she was playlisted by BBC Radio 2. She has also played with such notable artists as Joan Armatrading, Paul Brady, Gretchen Peters, Paul Carrack and Seth Lakeman. Tickets to hear how Lisbee Stainton gained her reputation are £13. Lichfield Arts Autumn Beer Festival takes place on Friday September 14th and Saturday 15th. With more than thirty real ales, traditional ciders and other drink available, there is also live music on both nights with Friday 14th seeing The Grateful Dads playing a set of music by the likes of The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, and Chuck Berry, and local favourites Three’s Company will be playing music by The Shadows, The Searchers, Kaiser Chiefs, The Eagles and many others when they appear on Saturday 15th. Tickets are available on the door, and cost £2 before 6, and £3 after 6.

Reel Hot Ceilidh Peppers

On Sunday 16th September there will be a Ceilidh with The Reel Hot Ceilidh Peppers - an evening of dancing, fun, frivolities and newly formed friendships. Tickets are £5. Folk Rock juggernauts Merry Hell and Folklaw will be making a welcome return when they play the Guildhall on Sunday September 23rd. Hot on the heels of their new album, Smokey Joe, Folklaw will be supporting Merry Hell at Lichfield Guildhall. With support slots with the likes of The Shires, Seth Lakeman, Mad Dog Mcrea and many others. The eightpiece folk rock band Merry Hell will be touring in support of their newest release Bloodlines when they appear at the Guildhall. Tickets are £13.50. Closing the month on Sunday 30th September at 8pm will be the critically acclaimed performer Keith James, and his show The Songs of Leonard Cohen. Enigmatic, mysterious and sub textural, songwriter Leonard Cohen was an unflinching character, with an exact sense of prose, a wry humour and

Lichfield Proms 2018

Leonard Cohen courage to wrestle with the unspoken, forgiving human frailty with the stroke of each line. Amongst a concert of such songs as; Famous Blue Raincoat, Sisters of Mercy, Suzanne and Hallelujah, are also Poems by Lorca that Keith has set to music; Cohen’s greatest influence. There will also be songs from ‘You want it Darker’ released only weeks before his death – produced by his Son, Adam. For further information, and to book tickets visit www.lichfieldarts.org.uk, phone (01543) 262223, or call into the Lichfield Arts Box Office in Donegal House on Bore Street.

here are plenty of musical treats in store for the audience at Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park on Saturday 1 September. Festivities will start with children’s activities from 5.30pm, then the City of Lichfield Concert Band will warm up the audience from 6pm, and The British Police Symphony Orchestra will take to the stage at 7.30pm for the main concert.

The City of Lichfield Concert Band has a treat in store for movie lovers, as they will be playing a mixture of popular classical music, musical medleys, jazz, film scores and well known pop songs. This will build up to the British Police Symphony Orchestra which is a 75-piece orchestra conducted by Richard Jenkinson, who will be joined on stage by experienced compere, PC Danny Mizon. Together they will take concert-goers through the main programme on the night, which includes music from La Bohème, Star Trek, Adagio from Spartacus, the Dambusters March, a World War One medley, Sea Songs and more. The evening will end with a fireworks finale and all the proms anthems, including Pomp and Circumstance No 1 and Jerusalem. The proms will also feature the two singers, Claire Prewer and Anando Mukerjee.

Richard Jenkinson conducting BPSO at Lichfeild Proms

To find out more about Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park, please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/lichfieldproms

Down to the seaâ&#x20AC;Ś By Carl Knibb ARBSA

ere, Lichfield artist (and painter of our cover image this issue) 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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Celebrating 309 years of Samuel Johnson

he Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum is commemorating 309 years of Lichfield’s great wordsmith this September with an exhibition about the Museum’s past, a celebration cake to share with all visitors and a programme of activities as part of Lichfield’s city-wide Heritage Weekend. On Saturday 22nd September the Museum on Breadmarket Street will be open from 10.30am till 4.30pm and admission, as always, is free of charge. The beautiful historic house will be decorated by Flower Design of Lichfield and a slice of Birthday cake supplied by local bakery Hindleys will be available for all visitors (while stocks last!). The theme of this year’s Heritage Weekend event is ‘100 years of…’, and the Birthplace will be turning back time and inviting visitors to experience the house as it would have been in 1918. Special displays will explore the early years of the Museum,

including items from the stored collection which are rarely on display. Find out how Lichfield responded to WWI, how the Museum committee viewed the Suffragettes, meet caretaker Mrs Davoll and learn about the life of Alleyn Lyell Reade, who survived some of Europe’s most gruesome battlefields to return to researching his famous ancestors and went on to donate his rare Johnson collections to the city. Everyone is invited to assemble on the Market Square for 12 noon when the civic party and Johnson Society members will gather to watch the Mayor lay a wreath on the statue of Johnson, accompanied by traditional hymns from St Michael’s Church Combined Choir. One of Lichfield’s long-standing traditions, the ceremony was cancelled 100 years ago when the Great War was still underway. This year, the ceremony will be followed by an afternoon of entertainment on the Market Square including performances from Fired-Up Theatre, Blast Off, the City of Lichfield Concert Band, the annual Young Town Crier Competition and more. The Johnson Society will also be marking Johnson’s Birthday with their traditional supper at Lichfield Guildhall on the Saturday evening. Current President, writer Michael Bundock, will be handing over the honour to Henry Hitchings, columnist and author of many books on the English Language. For more information please call 01543 264 972, visit the Museum website at www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk or email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk

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

James Thomas Law

n 14 August 1838, 180 years ago, a statue was erected in the Lichfield Market Place of Lichfield’s most famous son – Doctor Samuel Johnson, who created a Dictionary of the English Language. The statue remains one of the most iconic and recognisable structures on Lichfield’s skyline and it is the legacy of one of the city’s greatest benefactors, the Reverend Chancellor James Thomas Law. In September each year Samuel Johnson’s birthday is celebrated at Heritage Weekend where the Mayor of Lichfield places a wreath on the Johnson statue in front of hundreds of people on the Market Square. However none of this would be possible were it not for the generosity and patronage of Chancellor Law. In 1821 Law was appointed as Chancellor of the Lichfield Diocese, which was one of the largest in the country and a very important, influential post. In 1838 he agreed to pay for the creation and installation of the Samuel Johnson statue on the Market Square, using his own funds. The statue was created by Richard Cockle Lucas, a wellknown sculptor of the day, and cost £900, a significant amount of money in the 1830s. On 14 August 1838 a large crowd gathered on Market Square to witness the unveiling of the statue, an event which was reported across the whole of the country. Law remained as the Chancellor of Lichfield until his death in 1873, he was buried with his wife in a mausoleum at the edge of the graveyard at St Michael’s Church on Greenhill. Law was one of Lichfield’s greatest benefactors and a man of the people as well as a man of the cloth, his legacy will live on as the person who gave the statue of Samuel Johnson to the people of Lichfield 180 years ago. *You can learn more about the life and times of Revd James Thomas Law on a walking history tour ‘James Law - Lichfield’s Hidden Hero’ with Jono Oates, Features Writer for Citylife in Lichfield, on Sunday 30 September at 2pm. Tickets cost £5 per person and are available at: www.jonotourism.co.uk/tours-and-talks or ring 01543 268249 for details.

Jono Oates in Market Square

Lichfield Mystery Scripts

new paperback edition of scripts of the Lichfield Mystery plays is being published. Lichfield Mysteries Community Arts has produced the book of 27 plays, originally selected and edited by Robert Leach for the first Lichfield production in 1994.

Civic Service

The annual Civic Service, for Lichfield District councillors to pledge their commitment to Lichfield District residents, took place at St Michael’s Church in Lichfield in July. As part of Lichfield District Council’s Civic Service, recently appointed Chairman of Lichfield District Council, Councillor Bob Awty, led the Act of Commitment during the Sunday service. He invited parish, district and county councillors to acknowledge their responsibility to the community and pledge their commitment to the service of the people of Lichfield District.

The 290-page book includes illustrations from the programme of the 2012 production. The cover features the Lichfield Angel, the Saxon stone carving discovered under the nave of the Cathedral during excavations in 2003.

Robert Leach commented: “The Lichfield Mysteries began with a handful of people meeting in a pub discussing the possibility of staging some medieval mystery plays around the Cathedral. By the time of the first production in May 1994, it involved over five hundred local people and spread across the whole city. But I don't think we ever imagined that it would still be going strong a quarter of a century later! That is a magnificent testimony to the people of Lichfield who have continued to cherish it, even as times have got harder. This latest publication of the full text of the Lichfield Mysteries is a concrete and lasting tribute to their enthusiasm and commitment, and something we should all celebrate."

The book has been edited and compiled by Lichfield Mysteries Community Arts’ company secretary Hugh Ashton, himself a published author. Scheduled for publication on September 1, the book, titled simply The Lichfield Mysteries, is now available to pre-order from Amazon at a price of £9.99. As well as online, the book will also be available at events organised by Lichfield Mysteries and at other local occasions.

y t i VIEW C

The Newsletter of Lichfield City Council - September 2018

LICHFIELD CITY NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN IMPLEMETATION WORKING PARTY (NPIWP)

Councillor Bernard Cocksey, Leader of the Council

Welcome to this issue of City View. As always September is a busy period for the traditions of the City with the Sheriff’s Ride on 8 September and the Samuel Johnson Birthday celebrations on the 22 September. These events both continue to attract large audiences and it is always a pleasure to see so many local residents lending their support at each of the events.

I would like to welcome Councillor Colin Ball (Labour) to the City Council who was elected to the Curborough Ward on 5 July. A by-Election for a new Parish Councillor to Lichfield City Council’s Stowe Ward will take place on 27 September 2018. Democracy relies on the electorate expressing their views at the ballot box, so to all Stowe residents whatever your political persuasion, please make sure that you cast your vote in the by-election.

It has been a busy summer for the Council with the colourful Town Criers’ Competition, judging for Lichfield in Bloom and the Mayoress at home, as well as the normal day to day activities of the Council. Our next issue of City View will be published in November which will include details of Remembrance Sunday and this year’s Armistice 100 Commemorations both taking place on November 11. We are also putting the finishing touches to the Christmas lights switch on timetable which takes place on 25 November.

Your City Council continues to update its operating systems and policies, maintain our properties (many of which are listed) and to keep a close control of our costs. I would extend the Council's thanks to its staff who work so hard to ensure these objectives are achieved.

Following the adoption of the Lichfield City Neighbourhood Plan in February 2018, a cross party Neighbourhood Plan Implementation Working Party has been established. Now the City Council has a Neighbourhood Plan in place it will receive 25% of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) contributions from a developer. The existence of an adopted Neighbourhood Plan ensures as much CIL money as possible is retained by the Parish in which the development is taking place, to be spent in

consultation with residents and in accordance with the priorities laid out in the Neighbourhood Plan.

At its initial meeting, the NPIWP highlighted one of its priorities was to improve signage in the City. To that end the City Council will be providing up to ten new visitor information boards which will be placed at strategic points around the City. The installation of the signs will be carried out by Lichfield District Council.

Town Criers’ Competition

On Saturday 7 July the City Council hosted the fourth Lichfield Town Criers’ Competition. Thirteen Town Criers from all over Great Britain came to take part in this year’s competition. Our own Ken Knowles was not allowed to compete but nevertheless provided a ‘benchmark cry’ for the judges prior to round one. The first round of cries at Speakers’ Corner gave the competitors an opportunity to tell the judges and audience about their home towns. After a break for lunch the second round was held and the Criers were asked to proclaim on this year’s theme “The Year of the Woman”.

Youngest Town Crier

At the tender age of nine, the youngest Town Crier in the UK came along to support his Grandfather who was competing. Although too young to take part himself, Ollie delighted locals and visitors alike by taking to Speakers’ Corner to cry himself.

The Competitors gather outside the Guildhall at the start of the competition

The overall winner was Terry Ford from Otley, 2nd Prize was awarded to Adrian Holmes from Sandwell and 3rd Prize was awarded to Paul Gough from Nuneaton and Bedworth. Many local businesses sponsored and supported this colourful and entertaining event and the City Council would like to thank them, and all those who attended for supporting this event.

If you would like to keep up to date with more of the City Council’s activities, you can follow the City Council on Twitter @lichfield_cc.

CityVIEW

Events at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum

The Newsletter of Lichfield City Council

Saturday 22nd September 10.30am – 4.30pm, Free Celebrate Johnson’s Birthday with a slice of birthday cake for all! Plus step back in time to 1918 as part of Lichfield Heritage Weekend.

Dr Johnson's Wikiwords: Birthday Saturday 29th September 7pm and 8.15pm, £10 (£8 students). Early booking discounts available Comic theatre. Dr Johnson has the Birthday blues until rumours that he is to lose his birthday force him to think of revolution, encouraged by friends whose motives lie elsewhere. Words Alive! Saturdays from 29 September, 10.30am – 11.30am, £3 per session, discounts for family groups. A weekly club for 7-11 year olds who love words!

Silver Sunday Sunday 7th October, 11am – 1pm. Free Join the Birthplace team for a cup of tea, activities and a behind the scenes peek at the Museum's collections on this annual day of fun for older people The Extraordinary Journey of Francis Barber Sunday 14th October, 2pm, £4 A fascinating talk on Johnson's heir 'Frank' Barber, from a plantation in Jamaica to high-society London and a Staffordshire schoolhouse.

Halloween Storytelling for Adults Wednesday 24th October, 7pm, £8 including a drink For one night only, the museum will be haunted – by sinister tales. Lichfield Storytellers will thrill and delight you with traditional stories.

Halloween Storytelling for Families Wednesday 31st October, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm, £3, booking essential Creepy fun for families! Scary tales and spooky stories in an eerie witches’ lair, an exciting interactive session for all ages. Dress up if you like!

Half Term Fun! Thursday 1st November, 11am and 2pm, £2 Our popular hands-on arts and craft activities for the school holidays are perfect for a session of family fun. Open Daily 10.30am - 4.30pm. Standard entry is free of charge. Call 01543 265 972 or email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk for more information or to make an event booking.

STOWE WARD BY ELECTION

The resignation of Councillor J Grange on 31 July 2018 created a vacant seat in Stowe Ward. The vacancy has subsequently been advertised and the prerequisite demand for an election has been received by the Lichfield District Council Returning Officer. The Notice of Election was published on 22 August and the election is scheduled for 27 September 2018.

Dates for your diary…

Saturday 8 September Sheriff’s Ride 10.30am, Ride leaves the Guildhall

Saturday 22 September Dr Johnson Birthday Celebrations 11.50am, Market Square

Wednesday 31 October Mayor & Sheriff’s Charity Halloween Barn Dance 7.00pm, Guildhall

Sunday 11 November Remembrance Sunday 10.00am, Cathedral Service, 11.50am Garden of Remembrance

Saturday 24 November Mayor & Sheriff’s Charity Dinner Dance 7.00pm, Guildhall

Sunday 25 November Switch on Christmas Illuminations 5.00pm, Market Square

Tuesday 27 November Mayor & Sheriff’s Charity Christmas Wreath Making. With Ivisons Florist 11.00am – 3.00pm, Guildhall

Tuesday 4 December Mayor’s Carols for Christmas 7.00pm, Guildhall. For more information please contact Lucy Clarke on 01543 309852, or email lucy.clarke@lichfield.gov.uk

Markets in Lichfield

The Lichfield General Markets and Farmers' Market offer a wide selection of goods and local produce from friendly and established market traders. As well as the weekly General Markets on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, a Farmers' Market is held on the 1st Thursday of the month (except January).

In addition to the weekly markets there are a few other market related events taking place throughout 2018: The Bella Dame stall selling Marks & Spencer seconds and other lines will be sited on Market Square on the majority of Sundays during 2018. An Art & Craft Market will be held on the following Sundays and Mondays: 23 & 24 September/ 21 & 2 October / 18 & 19 November and 16 & 17 December. Market stalls will be included again this year at the Switch On of the Christmas Lights on Sunday 25 November. The Market Square is also available for hire on a commercial or charitable basis on non-market days.

For further details regarding any of the above or for information relating to Lichfield Markets please contact the City Council’s Markets Officers. Tel: 01543 309853 or e-mail: markets@lichfield.gov.uk

CityVIEW

VACANCIES:

The Newsletter of Lichfield City Council

Premises Attendants – Guildhall, Lichfield. £8.72 / hour

Additional casual support is required to assist with caretaking at the Guildhall, Lichfield. Hours would be flexible in response to business demand, including evenings and weekends. Duties include room setup, assistance to hirers, general maintenance and being responsible for securing the building following events. Application forms are available from the City Council offices, Donegal House, Bore St, Lichfield or by contacting us using the details below: Telephone: 01543 250011 Email: vacancies@lichfield.gov.uk

OUR WEBSITE: www.lichfield.gov.uk

Have you visited the City Council’s website? It offers a wealth of information about the work of the City Council; including details of all Council meetings and associated documents. In addition it contains useful information about the City, its history, festivals and major events, and its many unique customs and traditions.

The right Council…

Lichfield City Council is the ‘parish’ authority for the City and is the smallest of the three councils serving the City area. Within the City we deal with local matters such as the markets, maintenance of open spaces and churchyards, civic and mayoral events, the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum and public lettings of the Guildhall. Lichfield District Council (Tel: 01543 308000) is the larger local authority dealing with such matters as planning, environmental health, refuse collection, housing, car parking, arts and tourism, and leisure services. Staffordshire County Council (Tel: 0300 111 8000) is the responsible authority for wider services such as Education, Social Services and Highways.

Public Participation

City Council meetings are held in the Guildhall, Bore Street. Dates and times of meetings can be found on the notice-board outside the Guildhall, and on the City Council's website at www.lichfield.gov.uk Meetings are open to the public, with public participation sessions held at full Council and at the Planning Committee. Advance notice needs to be given to the Council of the subject matter of each question, and any person wishing to speak must contact the Council Offices at Donegal House, Bore Street (next to the Guildhall) before NOON on the day of the meeting.

Monday 10 September 2018 Thursday 27 September 2018 Monday 22 October 2018 Thursday 25 October 2018 Thursday 22 November 2018 Monday 3 December 2018

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A Window on the Past

This month we’re taking a look at Bakers Lane in the 1960s, before the Three Spires Shopping Centre we know today. Thank you to the local history group ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if…’ for sharing with us these evocative images.

A Trip to Bakers Lane 1. Quantrills butchers that originally stood on the corner of Tamworth Street and Bakers Lane. 2. The original Bakers Lane before the developments of the1960s

3. Demolition of Quantrills for the building of the

Bakers Lane shopping precinct in the 1960s

4, 5, 6 and 7 show Bakers Lane shopping precinct. 8. The original Tesco store on Bakers Lane.

9. Levetts Square. Image courtesy of Robert Yardley

For more photographs, stories and memories go to the group’s Facebook page ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if…’ or go along to one of their fun and friendly meetings taking place on Tuesday October 9th and Tuesday November 6th at the Lichfield Social Club, Purcell Avenue, WS13 6TS from 7 till 10 pm. For more information call 01543 416393 or 01543 268842. The group’s exhibitions of photographs and memorabilia can be booked for shows at nursing homes, clubs etc, completely free of charge.

Advertising Feature

Celebrating 40 Years of Family Eye Care

services. Additionally all our practices now offer the NHS funded minor eye conditions service. “We will be celebrating our 40th year with a whole range of eye related activities and supporting our charities Vision Aid Overseas and The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.” To keep in touch, like Colin Lee Opticians on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.colinlee-opticians.co.uk for more details.

n October 1978 Colin and Linda Lee opened their first opticians’ practice in Stone Cross, Birmingham. The practice was a great success and they soon opened another practice in Rugeley, where they were joined by Linda’s brother Clive Marchant who is now managing director. The group has grown to seven practices covering Birmingham and Staffordshire.

Colin Lee commented: “Linda and I are incredibly proud to reach this milestone in our company. Over the years we have always tried to deliver the best possible service while still providing excellent value for money. Optics has changed enormously over the years - in the beginning we didn’t even have computers and now we have the latest technology to scan the eye and detect any problems early! “We have gone from just performing eye tests and supplying specs, to contact lenses, dry eye clinics, low vision, orthoptics and hearing

Cathedral School joy at excellent A Level results

ichfield Cathedral School students are celebrating excellent A Level results - 83% of all grades were A*- C, 26% higher than last year and 17% of grades were A*- A, up from 11% last year. There were some exceptional Image copyright Lichfield Cathedral School individual successes, such as Darcie Thomas who achieved A*AAB and will be studying Mathematics at Lancaster and Noah Jeffries who gained AAA and a prestigious apprenticeship with Bristol based accountancy firm Haines Watts. Rosie Maclean has won a full scholarship (tuition fees and living expenses) to study Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Queen’s University, Belfast.

All Performing Arts students gained A* or A and the Cathedral School students’ success in the challenging Extended Project Qualification continued, with 75% achieving either A* or A and 100% achieving A*- B grades. Headmistress Susan Hannam said: “These excellent results reflect the hard work and positive attitudes of our students and the skill, professionalism and dedication of our wonderful teachers. As a non-selective school, students come to us with a wide range of academic ability; it is a testament to our high quality teaching and supportive environment that so many students achieved or exceeded their predicted grades. They should feel very proud of their accomplishment - we certainly are!”

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Lichfield in Bloom Judging Day

26th July saw the judges from the Heart of England in Bloom competition come to Lichfield. The weather was glorious and although the grassy areas looked brown and parched, the projects showed the results of all the hard work put in by the volunteers and the County, District and City Councils to make the area as attractive as possible. The morning began at Swinfen Hall with refreshments and a look at the newly constructed Victorian style greenhouse, built using reclaimed materials. The judges were taken to Tamworth Road and walked from the floral boat to the Reflections Garden at Gallows Wharf, both projects contributed by the Lichfield and Hatherton Canal Restoration Trust. The Reflections Garden just under the

busy London Road is an oasis of calm in a busy world for all the community to enjoy. The judges continued, via Shortbutts Lane with its tidied areas, to Dovehouse Community Garden, an old allotments site abandoned in 2012 and reclaimed by local volunteers, growing both flowers and food crops. This was followed by a mini safari to the Pipe Green Trust area just off the western by-pass going past the newly planted-up roundabout sponsored by Jukes the Undertakers. Travelling down Stafford Road and Beacon Street to Beacon Park it was evident that the residents of those two roads had responded to the note making them aware of the judges’ visit. Next stop was Beacon Park. The judges were impressed by the formal planting, the Peace Trees in the Community Garden with the efforts to keep them watered and ready for the installation at the Cathedral, and the newly installed alpine bed. Out of the Park to the lovely gardens associated with Swan Mews followed by an initial walk through the City up Dam Street to Reeve Lane. Netherstowe Allotments site was the next stop. The judges enjoyed the range of plants and vegetables being grown and the ecological approach taken by the plot holders. Walking

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through St. Chad’s churchyard the judges saw the work being done to manage thoughtfully another green area of calm. The judges then took part in a civic procession through the town which included the city Mayor and Mayoress, preceded by the town crier and mace bearer. The morning concluded with a hand-tied flower bouquet demonstration and refreshments at St. John’s Hospital. The results of Heart of England in Bloom will be announced on 21st September.

The narrow boat of flowers beside the Tamworth Road

Hidden Spaces

This month we take you on a tour of one of Lichfield’s hidden gems – the Chapel at the Bishop’s Palace, Lichfield Cathedral Close.

The Bishop’s Palace in the Cathedral Close is now home to the Lichfield Cathedral School and tucked away to the north-west side of the palace is the Chapel building.

he palace was built in 1687, although many of the early bishops chose to live outside of Lichfield and it was rented out as a family home for nearly two hundred years. It was not until 1868 that George Augustus Selwyn, previously Bishop of New Zealand, was appointed as the 90th Bishop of Lichfield and he became the first bishop to choose to live in The Palace. He immediately started on the enlargement of The Palace, with two wings added to the original building on the east and west sides and also the addition of the Chapel alongside the west wing. The Chapel was designed by architect Henry Woodyear and he was given a strict timetable for completing the works, as Bishop Selwyn had arranged a six month farewell tour of New Zealand and Polynesia before taking up his new post and The Palace needed to be ready for his return in 1869. The Chapel walls are decorated with murals depicting biblical scenes and the stained glass windows include the emblem of the first Bishop of

Lichfield, St Chad, which is also the emblem of the Lichfield Cathedral School. The Chapel includes an upper level gallery which can be accessed via a winding and steep flight of stone steps, though the climb is worth it as it provides a birds-eye view of the whole length of the Chapel. The Chapel was originally used by the bishop, his family and friends for his prayers and was also used by students of the Lichfield Theological College. In 1954 the Bishop of Lichfield moved to live in another property in the Close and the Bishop’s Palace became the home of the pupils of the Lichfield Cathedral School. These days the Chapel is used on a regular weekly basis for services and for school choir practice. Our thanks to Lichfield Cathedral School for providing access to the Chapel.

Hammerwich Hall - Our Story

Advertising Feature

ammerwich Hall in Burntwood, Staffordshire is a Residential Care Home for the elderly, offering both long and short-term care. The beautiful red-brick building, which had been a private residence in the 19th century, still has many of its original features despite two extensions in more recent years.

The house has seen many transitions over the years: It was the home of John Leckie until the late 1890s when it was sold to Benjamin Stretton (d. by 1912), a brewer from Burton on Trent, whose wife Frances continued to live there after he died. Mr and Mrs Stretton’s only son died during the First World War and from 1941, it was used as an annexe by the Birmingham and Midland Hospital for Women at Sparkhill, Birmingham, where injured servicemen were nursed back to health. The cellar, now housing our sprinkler system, was utilised as a mortuary for some unfortunate servicemen. Mrs Stretton helped to nurse there until she died in 1944 and in 1945, Hammerwich House was bought by Walsall Borough Council and converted into a girls’ remand home, opening in 1946. The house later became a children's home where the children were referred to as ‘Bluecoats’ because of their blazers. This was also when the home was referred to by locals as the ‘naughty boys’ school. These children came from troubled lives to grow up within these walls, playing in the beautiful gardens and acquainting themselves with the noble art of tree climbing. Indeed, the trees in our front garden are over 100 years old and are all protected. Mansion drive properties now stand on what used to be the gardens of Hammerwich House, used for growing fruits and vegetables, while the land from the house to the now-closed post office was a play area, for the children that used to be cared for here. The children kept aviaries and rabbit pens on the south wing. It is also said that there are priest holes that lead up to St John the Baptist church in Hammerwich. In 1984 the council sold the house and it was reopened in 1985, as a private Residential Home Hammerwich Hall in 2018 for the elderly. In 1988 a nursing unit was added, the house having by then been r e n a m e d Hammerwich Hall Residential and Nursing Home. 46

In February 2018, Hammerwich Hall changed ownership to Advinia Healthcare Limited, a Company with a network of care homes providing the full spectrum of care services. Advinia pride themselves on providing homely facilities without an institutional feel. Individuality is at the heart of their care, ensuring that personal choice and family wishes are respected. As soon as you walk into an Advinia home, you’ll recognise the feeling. It feels like home ought to be: comfortable, welcoming, relaxed and safe. It’s the little touches that make a big difference, such as music and fresh flowers, and – above all – a local staff team who are dedicated to their role and truly care. Hammerwich Hall has a reputation for its ‘home from home’ feel, the warm, friendly welcome and its amazing team and so, fits neatly into Advinia’s ethos. From your initial enquiry, to the day you move in and for as long as you stay with us, we’re here to make life better. Whatever you need, we do what it takes to make sure you get it – from medical advice and support, to an emergency response system in every room. We also provide regular assessments so that as your needs change, we adapt our care accordingly. Hammerwich Hall provides a warm, friendly atmosphere where residents can continue their daily lives with privacy and dignity. Hammerwich Hall is truly a ‘home from home’ for residents who are encouraged to bring their own ornaments, pictures and small pieces of furniture to make their surroundings look and feel more familiar. The home boasts beautiful extensive gardens with outdoor seating where residents can sit and relax with a good book, the newspaper, or just enjoy the gardens. Each year, we hold annual events, the summer fete and dog show being the biggest, where visitors can come along and see for themselves what life is and should be like in a care home. There are opportunities for residents to mix and socialise if they wish, either in one of our three comfortably furnished lounges or in our vintage tearoom, or they can take part in both indoor and outdoor activities. There are also visits from entertainers as well as a weekly visit by a hairdresser and a holistic therapist. Residents also enjoy days out to such places as the Severn Valley

railway, the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas,Twycross Zoo and the local pub!

Our experienced chefs provide nutritionally balanced dishes for residents using only the freshest produce, catering for all tastes and diets. Meals can be taken in the dining room or garden (weather permitting) or in the residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own room if that is their preference.

Lots of interesting characters have lived with us at Hammerwich Hall, with many thought provoking histories and all our residents have stories of interest to tell, we would love to hear yours too. If you would like to know more about Hammerwich Hall, give us a call. Come and meet our staff and residents, have a look around the home and you will see what makes Hammerwich Hall so special.

The Enormous Turnip!

tuff and Nonsense Theatre Company are bringing their re-potted version of the famous children’s story, The Enormous Turnip to the Lichfield Garrick on Sunday 9 September. This adaptation features puppetry, live music and massive vegetables! Living in their tiny shed amongst the garden tools, Mr and Mrs Chickweed’s prize-winning vegetables have taken over everything! Before they retire, they can’t resist planting one last seed to try for one more champion vegetable and one more trophy! But no one knew that a vegetable could grow bigger than the cat, bigger than the dog, bigger than you and me put together! It’s gigantic and it’s still growing! The Enormous Turnip is playing at the Lichfield Garrick on Sunday 9 September with performances at 1.30pm and 4pm. The show is perfect for seedlings aged 3 to 10 and all the family. Tickets start from £14 and can be booked online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com or by calling the Box Office on 01543 412121.

Dyslexic students achieve 100%

tudents at Maple Hayes Dyslexia School in Lichfield have risen to the challenge of the new GCSE structure, with all pupils achieving at least eight GCSEs, including English and maths. School leavers at the acclaimed Staffordshire school have more cause to celebrate than most, as many of them enter Maple Hayes without being able to read and write. In total this year, 100% of pupils secured eight or more GCSEs, with 44% of them achieving at least a grade 4 (a standard pass that is equivalent to a C) in English - the subject that has proven to be one of the biggest stumbling blocks throughout their academic career. 50% of Year 11 pupils conquered maths with grade 4 or higher, while two pupils at the school achieved the highest possible grade - grade 9 (equivalent to an A*) for their art and design GCSE. Maple Hayes was founded by Dr Neville Brown, the school principal, who today works closely alongside his son, and headteacher, Dr Daryl Brown. Together, the doctors have created a unique approach to teaching literacy called the ‘morphological approach’, using icons to make a visual link between meaning and spelling instead of pupils being taught using phonics. Year on year, Maple Hayes beats the odds with competitive GCSE results. Alumni have gone on to study at college and university - with some going on to gain PhDs.

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

What’s on in September

Thursday 6th September Olliebobs Paper Rose wreath workshop £20 11am to 1pm. At Erasus Darwin House, Beacon Street. Booking essential.

Saturday 8th September Dr D’s Science Club – For children aged 7-11 years. Bridge Building Challenge £4 per child, reduction for siblings. Booking recommended. 10am to 12pm. At Erasmus Darwin House

Saturday 8th, 15th and 29th September Cellar Tour £2 per person. 1.30 pm at Erasmus Darwin House.

Tuesday 18th September Lichfield Civic Society Meeting 7.45pm. Talk entitled Lichfield Clock Tower. Speaker: Colin Walton The meeting takes place at The Lichfield Room, Wade Street Church Community Hall, Frog Lane, Lichfield, WS13 6HS. Members and

school students are free of charge. Visitors are always welcome (£3 at the door).

Thursday 20th September Anna Seward Sewing group drop in event – come along to enquire about joining our sewing group. 11am to 3pm. At Erasmus Darwin House.

Saturday 22nd September Olliebobs Folk Art £15 Booking essential. 11 till1 at Erasmus Darwin House.

Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd September Heritage Weekend at Erasmus Darwin House Learn more about some of the remarkable Women in Science and Literature over the last 100 years. Launch of the new trail for children 7-12 years old, mouse hunt for younger children, pop up tea room and garden tour. Free entry but a small charge for some events

Sunday 23rd September Fashions and Passions Garden Tour

The Case of the Frightened Lady

£2 per person. 3pm. At Erasmus Darwin House

Tuesday 25th September Lunar Lecture : fear and terror in 18th century music £5 7.30pm at College Hall Cathedral Close, booking essential via Erasmus Darwin House.

Wednesday 26th September Stonnall Conservation Society – ‘The Privateer’ Stonnall Conservation Society will be delighted to welcome the inimitable JOHN WHITE (Aka Henry VIII) holder of an Honours Degree In History and War Studies and a Performance Historian, on Wednesday the 26th September 2018 when he will be performing ‘The Privateer’ at Stonnall Youth and Community Centre, Stonnall WS9 9EE at 7.30pm. We look forward to seeing you all again and do bring along any Non Members for an informative and relaxing evening. www.shenstone-staffs.gov.uk/scs/

Thursday 27th September Macmillan Coffee Morning at Lichfield Methodist Church

Please join us on Thursday 27th September from 10.00am to 1.00pm. Slices of homemade cake, scones and biscuits will be on sale to eat or to take home and enjoy later. Our usual range of drinks and snacks will also be available and all proceeds that morning will go to Macmillan Cancer Care.

Friday 29th September Staffordshire Archaeological and Historical Society Meetings held at The Guildhall, Bore Street, Lichfield. 8.00 pm: 1709-2009: Celebrating the 300th anniversary of the Birth of the Industrial Revolution at Coalbrookdale, talk by Dr Richard Bifield. Visitors welcome, £3 at the door. Refreshments available from 7 30 pm. For more info call 01543 416144.

Sunday 14th October Wedding Open Day From 12pm to 3pm. Save the date to visit The George Hotel on Bird Street, Lichfield to see how lovely your wedding day could be. Free Entry.

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 closelyguarded 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.

Holiday Cottage Woolacombe, North Devon

Details/Pictures:www.leesideholidays.com johns@leeside.myzen.co.uk Tel: 0121 353 6613

Competition and Prize Draw Terms and Conditions 1.Entrant’s details will be held and processed in line with Citylife in Lichfield Ltd’s Privacy Policy, which in turn adheres to GDPR Data Protection legislation. For a copy of our Privacy Policy please email josscitylife@gmail.com 2.By entering the prize draw/competition, you agree to the terms and conditions stated. 3.The closing date is stated on each individual prize draw or competition. 4.Entrants’ details will be securely held by Citylife in Lichfield Ltd in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Details will be held only until the closing date of the competition. After this date entrants’ details will be securely destroyed/deleted. Winners’ contact details will be securely stored only until the winner has been informed of their win/prize. After this details will be securely deleted/destroyed. 5.Entrants’ details will never be shared with any third party. The only exception to this is the name (and if the prize is to be posted) address of Competition/Prize Draw winners that will be communicated to the competition partner to allow winners to securely claim their prize, after which all details will be securely destroyed. The initial and surname of winners will be printed in our magazines – no other details will be published. 6.By entering the competition/prize draw, entrants agree to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd using or publishing materials provided by the entrants (but not address or contact details apart from initial and surname) in any of their publications and online. 7.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. 8.Only one entry per prize draw/competition, per reader. 9.Except in the case of cash prizes, no cash equivalent will be offered and the prize is non-transferable. 10.All prizes are subject to availability and the prize suppliers' terms and conditions. 11.No purchase necessary. 12.Prize draws and competitions are only open to UK residents aged 18 years or over (unless otherwise stated). 13.Competitions and prize draws may not be entered by any employee of individual associated with any employee, agent or third party of Citylife in Lichfield Ltd. 14.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 competitions from all entries received. 15.Winners will be notified by Citylife in Lichfield up to 28 days after the closing date of the competition/prize draw by the contact details provided by the entrant. 16.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. 17.When the prize draw/competition winner has been selected, this decision is

final and no correspondence will be entered into. 18.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. 19.Competitions may be amended or withdrawn at any time. 20.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’s publications and online. 21.Unless otherwise stated, the promoter is Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield, WS14 4JS. 22. 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. 23.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. 24.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.