Lichfield Gazette April 2014 by Lichfield Gazette also Rugeley Gazette

THE MAGAZINE REFLECTING LIFE IN THE CITY OF LICHFIELD

April 2014 ISSUE 59

Was Stan Laurel’s Father a Lichfield Lad? see inside!

News • Competitions • Gazette Woman • What’s On • Dining Out

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Letter Editor A

from the

Turning up the Weather

A heat-wave in the second week of March! Are you joking? It seems unlikely, but on the back of perhaps the mildest winter I can ever remember, here we are. Birds are making nests, blossom is on the trees and the daffs are out in abundance. I can only recollect one occasion this winter where I have actually scraped ice off the windscreen of my car. All this clement weather makes me wonder if we are going to pay with a drab, colourless and even insipid summer with only the World Cup football to warm us. It is often said that the funny thing about Britain is that we don’t really have a climate as such, we have weather. The British live in what can only be described as a changeable environment. It is a national pastime and obsession to talk about it! What would it be like if we could control the weather? If we could dial up the weather through some climate technology, like central-heating to suit our temperament? Playing God would mean rain to appease the farmers and their crops along with dry and sunny in the coastal regions, and in the cities and towns perhaps. During the Beijing Olympics the Chinese came up with the idea of seeding the skies over the city to reduce the smog. But would we want a Ministry of Weather to control our climate? I think not! ‘Walking (or singing) in the rain with the one I love’ would be replaced with a weather calendar that would no doubt be a ‘post code lottery’ that would suit one group and not the other. “Here is the weather…Rain again in Lichfield, whilst here in London it’s a lovely sunny day again!” Perhaps the random and unpredictable weather we’ve always complained about isn’t that bad after all.

CONTRIBUTORS • Caz Jones

• Joss Musgrove Knibb

• Patrick Comerford • Robert Yardley

• Rev Canon Anthony Moore

• Phil Preece • John Ullah

• Dave Gallagher

• Laura Bowcutt

Regards, Paul Oakley 18°c

April 2014 Issue 59

ABOUT YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE

Lichfield Gazette is your local monthly magazine distributed to more than 18,000 homes and businesses in and around Lichfield. Distribution area covers Lichfield City, Alrewas, Fradley, Shenstone, Hammerwich, Kings Bromley, Longdon, Burntwood, Whittington and Little Aston.

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A limited number of the Lichfield Gazette are available and can be purchased at 90p from the Heritage Centre at St Mary’s in the Market Place. All proceeds go to charity. We do not seek to sensationalise but to inform and entertain our readers. The views expressed in this magazine are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the publishers. Lichfield Gazette magazine is not a franchise or connected with any other publication.

CONTENTS

06 Netherstowe House Competition Win Lunch for Two (Mon-Thurs) and enjoy the Netherstowe House experience.

10 Was Stan Laurel’s father a Lichfield lad? John Ullah looks at the background of this comedy legend.

12 You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if... Do you recognise these shops?

36 15 years of Erasmus Darwin House The Museum celebrates its anniversary

38 Lichfield Heritage Collection If you want to get ahead...

41 Win Tickets to Kew Gardens Win tickets to the Gardens which are one of London’s top visitor attractions.

42 Win an Easter Egg Competition Easter treats for all the family. 43 Gazette Woman Gorgeous trench coats and perfect pink. 48 What’s On/Dining Out Your guide to what’s on in Lichfield

Contact the Gazette see page 54

06 42 Page 5

Lichfield Festival 2014 Programme Launch

he Lichfield Gazette was in the audience that assembled to hear about the fantastic line-up secured for the Lichfield Festival 2014 at the Programme Launch held at Swinfen Hall Hotel on Thursday 20th March. Well done to all involved.

Jennifer Mears - Festival Manager, Tony Bateman – Festival Chairman, Michael Fabricant MP and Nick Sedgwick – Festival Board Member

Going for Gold this summer

he ‘Blooming Lichfield’ Committee are on the lookout for local schools to enter this year’s ‘Plant a Wheelbarrow’ Competition. Last year, over 20 schools in the Lichfield area competed to plant up the best looking wheelbarrow with the winner being voted for by the general public. This year’s planting theme is 'Going for Gold', which coincides with the Golden Anniversary 50 years of Britain in Bloom.

Byron Lewis, from the Blooming Lichfield Committee said: “The 2013 Competition was a great success with over 500 people voting for the best looking wheelbarrow! This year, we want our local schools to come up with something Golden and let their imaginations run wild!”

The wheelbarrow, along with suitable compost is supplied to each school free of charge and to encourage recycling the barrows can be kept by each school for their own use in the future. Voting for the winner takes place at Lichfield Garden Centre as part of a special Vintage & Gardens Festival held at Curborough Countryside Centre, on Saturday 21st June. Schools and their pupils, family and friends are encouraged to vote for the winning barrow. The prizes are vouchers from Local Garden Centres, which can be used to improve the Schools own Gardens.

To get your school involved, please contact Lichfield Garden Centre on 01543 254306 for more details.

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WIN

LUNCH

FOR TWO PEOPLE AT NETHERSTOWE HOUSE

FIND MINSTER THE CAT!

Win a Lunch for Two (Mon-Thurs) and enjoy the Netherstowe House experience. As the venue of choice for many milestone celebrations, such as anniversaries, bir thdays and weddings, Netherstowe House Hotel and Restaurant resonates to the sound of laughter throughout the year from guests indulging in a seasonal soiree and past well known patrons who have enjoyed doing just that include Sir Roger Moore, Helen Baxindale, Barry Norman CBE, Claire Sweeny and Idris Elba to name but a few. Netherstowe House are incredibly proud to have been voted 'Restaurant of the Year' at the Taste of Staffordshire Good Food awards, to have received an AA Rosette award for Culinary Excellence and to be recommended by the Michelin Guide. These coveted awards and accolades are testament to the dedication of their team who are incredibly passionate about delighting guests. Express Lunch Menu: 2 Courses ~ £14.95; 3 Courses ~ £19.95 12 midday to 2:30pm (Mon - Fri), 1:00pm to 2:30pm (Sat)

Minster is a little rascal! True to form he has got lost again in this issue and we need your help to find him. He

might be in an advertisement or in a story, can you find him? When you have found him (he looks like the image at the top of the page) simply tell us which page he is on for a chance to win. Write the page number on a card or the back of a sealed envelope along with your name and address and send it to us no later than Wed 16th April 2014 to ‘Minster The Cat Competition’ PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ. Or by email to minsterthecat@hotmail.co.uk subject "Minster Comp". One entry only please (or disqualified). Netherstowe House is a beautifully renovated Grade II Listed property and Fine Dining Restaurant. This boutique hotel has the elegance of a fine old country house, excellent service plus the contemporary conveniences of every modern luxury you could possibly desire. The Editor will draw the winning entry and announce it in the next edition of Lichfield Gazette. Good luck!! Congratulations to Mr T Fenoughty of Wentworth Drive who spotted Minster the Cat on page 32 of the March 2014 issue.

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Up to £1000 available in We Love Lichfield Grants

ood causes across the Lichfield District can now apply for grants of up to £1000 from the We Love Lichfield Fund. The fund which has been making a difference across the district since 2011 will be giving away up to £7500 in May and is inviting organisations to submit their applications before 11th April.

Dozens of good causes have benefited from the fund so far including scout groups, spor ts clubs, nurseries and school parent teacher associations. Grants can be awarded to and for volunteer led community groups. They must be based inside the boundaries of Lichfield District (according to Lichfield District Council) and must meet a set criteria.

The deadline for applications is 11th April for the May 2014 giveaway. For more information please contact the Staffordshire Community Foundation on 01785 353789 or visit www.staffsfoundation.org.uk/welovelichfield to download an application form.

Lichfield visitor guide is out now

he Visit Lichfield 2014 guide was formally launched at a special reception at St Mary’s in the Market Square on Friday 28 February.

Tourism providers and representatives from city venues assembled in Lichfield Museum, housed at St Mary’s in the Market Square, to celebrate the launch of the new Visit Lichfield 2014 guide.

Adrian Dorber, Jan Leytham, Val Richards, Jo Wilson, David Leytham Photo by Robert Yardley

At the launch, guests heard from The Very Reverend Adrian Dorber, who made a short presentation on the progress of Lichfield Cathedral’s East End Project and on future developments to the cathedral.

Joanne Wilson, Museums and Heritage Officer for Lichfield City Council, also spoke on the day about the achievements of The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum in 2013 and upcoming events planned for 2014. Page 8 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

By the Rev’d Dr Anthony Moore, Canon Chancellor, Lichfield Cathedral

nternet search results change all the time but, at the time of writing, a search on the question ‘Is there any hope for me?’ brings up some surprising links.

Top of the list is a series of Yahoo results relating to people looking for partners. Young people heading off to college are worried that they will be the only person in their year group who hasn’t got a boyfriend or girlfriend. Someone is despairing that they are 23 and still single: ‘I’m so sad that I’m older and still alone.’ The list continues with people who are, by comparison, really, really ancient (my age – I note) who are still searching for ‘the perfect partner’ or who are struggling to rebuild their lives and find some confidence after difficult breakups or breakdowns.

Further down the list come some much more challenging accounts of people who are suffering, not just the pain of loneliness and isolation, but also the darkness of emotional distress or mental illness. One person comments that they have said goodbye to all their friends because they don’t any longer see the point of friendships: it’s interesting that they turn to the ‘anonymous’ internet to explain the way that they feel. It doesn’t just stop with relationships: many people are very worried about increasing burdens of debt, how they will feed and clothe their children, what the international powers of the world are up to, what the future of the human race will be, and so on. It all seems hopeless.

Perhaps the web has, for many people, become a kind of ‘friend’ – the sort that won’t answer back or whose answers can be controlled or filtered. Sadly, it seems that there are those who test that friendship and then find themselves increasingly lonely because there really is no proper answer coming back. If an answer does come, it might be from someone who lives thousands of miles away and who feels it appropriate to chuck their opinions into the mix. But what do they really know? How can they properly understand?

Produced by Lichfield District Council’s tourism team, the aim of the guide is to encourage more visitors to the district, by highlighting the city and district’s attractions, events, tours, shops, eateries, visitor accommodation and much more. The event was also a chance to unveil the council’s spring and summer What’s On brochure, which lists events taking place across the district from March through to August 2014.

Hope at Easter

Easter is about relationships. It is about the restoration of the relationship of all people, indeed all things, with God and with one another. When Jesus rose from the dead on the first Easter Day, he transformed the whole world, opening access to the unconditional love of God who does know, who does listen and who does care. Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.’ (Matthew 11:28-29).

The Faith of Easter is not a cure-all. It won’t make all our problems go away, but it reveals the truth that we are fully known and truly loved and that we need never despair. So, yes, there is hope. There is hope for us all.

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Was Stan Laurel’s Father a Lichfield Lad?

By John Ullah

tan Laurel, one half of the world’s greatest comedy team, was born in Ulverston, Cumbria on 16th June 1890. However the birthplace of his father (Arthur Jefferson) is a bit more difficult to pin down. A lot of people claim that he was born in Birmingham while others say he was born in Lichfield. But which is true? At present his birth certificate has not been found. So why is he linked to the Midlands? Early Census records show a 28 year old Arthur living in Bishop Auckland with his wife Madge. His profession is listed as Theatrical Manager. In the column stating where he was born is written Birmingham. We do know that Stan Laurel has links to Birmingham. His aunt (Mary) was baptised in St. Martins Church in the Bull Ring. Unfortunately she died at an early age and is buried at St Barnabas Church, Erdington. So this would suggest that Arthur Jefferson was indeed born in the area.

In a later Census record we find that Arthur Jefferson and his wife Madge, along with their two children (Stan and Gordon) are now living in Tynemouth,

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Northumberland. Arthur is still a Theatre Manager, but this time under ‘place where born’ he has put Lichfield! So now we can see where the confusion arises. The big question of course is why did he state his place of birth as Birmingham, and then change it to Lichfield? There are a few possibilities. Perhaps he wrote Birmingham as it was the nearest big city to where he was born? Or maybe he was never told where he was born. Just to make things even more complicated, we believe that Arthur was born out of wedlock. Could this be the reason that his birth was not registered? Until Arthur Jefferson’s birth certificate turns up we can never be sure where he was born.

Hopefully one day we will be able to confirm just exactly where Stan Laurel’s father was born. One thing is for certain, local fans of Laurel & Hardy are very proud of the Midlands connection.

If anyone would like details of the Birmingham branch of the Laurel & Hardy Appreciation Society (called Laughing Gravy) you will find full details on our website: www.laughinggravytent.co.uk

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Smith and Parker Ltd was situated by the current entrance to the car-park behind B&M on Market Street

You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if... Kims Kabin was on Bore Street from approx 1965 to 1997

Harcourt Textiles was on Bore Street from approx 1980 to 1995

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hanks again to Dave Gallagher of the local history group ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if...’ for these fascinating pictures. This fantastic Facebook group now has over 3,500 members. I went to their recent meeting held at the Curborough Community Centre on March 13th where over 50 people gathered to chat, swap stories and look through original documents, lots of photographs, books, video recordings, postcards and much more that relates to memories of our City. The next meeting will be held at 7pm on April 10th at the Curborough Community Centre, Reynolds Close, Lichfield and all are welcome. Check out the group’s Facebook page ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if...’ for more fantastic pictures like these... Joss Musgrove Knibb – Deputy Ed.

P&D is now the Wilkinsons store on Bore Street.

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Florette Fradley 10k runs up record number of entrants

Team Florette gear up for the race

his year’s Florette Fradley 10k was bigger, better and brighter than ever, as a record number of runners turned out to compete in the sunshine on Sunday 9th March. Of the approximately 1,000 people taking part, running enthusiast James Douglas of Charnwood AC was crowned winner, achieving an impressive time of 33 minutes and 13 seconds. Second place went to Southampton AC’s Mathew Missen who came in at 33:53 minutes, while third place was taken by local runner, Aaron Brown of Cannock and Stafford AC with a time of 34:30 minutes. Leading the women’s race was Jo Maddick from Kingston Upon Hull who finished first in 36:13 munutes. Abigail Bagshaw from RAF Athletics Association also put in a great performance, coming in second at 36:33 minutes, while Nicki Nealor from Huncote Harriers took third place. Ambassadors from the Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust opened the race, which in its 14th year also included a twelve-person team from race sponsor Florette. The long-standing sporting event has been nominated in this year’s national Running Awards for Best 10k Race, the winner of which will be announced at a London ceremony next month. A full set of Fradley 10K results are available at: www.stuweb.co.uk/events/2014/03/09/1661/

Companies Can Make A Difference Across The District

Volunteer gaolers needed for Lichfield’s historic prison!

o you have a passion for the history of Lichfield, an interest in meeting people, and enjoy spending time in fascinating historic surroundings or developing new skills? Lichfield City Council is looking for volunteers to join the team that welcome visitors into the historic prison cells display at Lichfield Guildhall. The cells were re-opened with new displays in 2012 and over 7000 visitors have come to see the historic prison each summer over the last two seasons. Volunteers welcome people visiting Lichfield from around the country and the world, as well as helping local visitors to find out more about the rich history of the city. The cells will be open from 10am - 4pm on Saturdays from April to September. Volunteering opportunities can be very flexible - from just a couple of hours a month, to a more regular slot, depending on what you feel you could offer. If you would like to find out more about volunteering at the Guildhall Prison Cells, please contact Joanne Wilson, Museums and Heritage Officer on 01543 264 972, by email to sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk, or pop in to the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum on the corner of the Market Square.

n the past three years local charity We Love Lichfield has been making a significant difference across the District by raising money and then distributing it to many voluntary organisations across the City, Burntwood and Chasetown and the surrounding villages. Its aim is to raise £500,000 by 2016 and one key area the fund needs support from is local business. The fund is always happy to hear from local businesses who might wish to donate to We Love Lichfield. In return, companies can use the fund's logo in their marketing materials and will be mentioned on We Love Lichfield’s website, Facebook page and ever-growing twitter feed which now boasts nearly 1000 followers. Simon Price, donor advisor for We Love Lichfield said: "My thanks to Paul and his team at the Lichfield Gazette. Their regular contributions both in money and advice is invaluable to a small but growing fund that simply wants to put something back." Paul Oakley Editor, added: “The Lichfield Gazette has been a supporter of the fund since its beginning and feel very proud to be associated with a fund that raises money just for our district. It’s a great way to let our readers, suppliers and advertisers know how we help the community. Together with other businesses we can make a real difference to this fantastic part of the world.” For more information visit www.welovelichfield.com Page 14 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Paul Oakley and Simon Price

Friary shoes competition winner

ulia Baker started the new year with a lovely surprise by winning the Friary Shoes competition in the Gazette. Friary Shoes were celebrating the opening of their new store in Bakers Lane opposite Debenhams.

rewers from the USA visited The Acorn Inn at Lichfield in February, as the pub launched its exclusive Sixpoint canned beers. The brewers from Sixpoint Brewery in Brooklyn chatted to customers about their craft beers as well as offering samples of the beer itself. Sharon Prickett, manager at the pub in Tamworth Street, said: “This was a great opportunity for customers to meet the brewers of the Sixpoint craft beers and to sample their beers.” The meet the brewer and tasting event was free.

Lichfield Cathedral Quarter

Julia Baker with Kayleigh Ashe and Laura Allen of Friary Shoes.

Meet the American Brewer

ave you ever watched the BBC quiz show ‘Pointless’? The aim of this particular game is to find the most obscure examples of, for example, English Cathedral Cities. During an episode broadcast in 2013 this question (or something very like it) was asked of a group of 100 individuals. Only a handful could name Lichfield.

Now this seems to me strange. Not only was our City home to many nationally important figures but we have one of the largest cathedrals in the UK. Lichfield Cathedral is a whopper at 370ft long and 252ft high (at the central spire). It’s the only medieval cathedral in England with three spires and there’s been Christian worship going on at this site for over 1,000 years. We have our very own saint. We’ve been raided by Vikings, blown up by Parliamentarians and Cavaliers, seen our men march off to fight in 1914 and this history is etched into the stones of this living, breathing monument to life.

Despite all this, we remain very little known. Recently, I chatted to the Very Reverend Adrian Dorber, Dean of Lichfield about exciting plans afoot to draw this veil of relative obscurity from the Cathedral, to attract visitors and pilgrims and to bring tourism revenue flooding into City businesses. Adrian commented: “Lichfield with its Cathedral is a highly regarded but hidden gem. Currently we welcome around 200,000 visitors every year and they

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Very Reverend Adrian Dorber, Dean of Lichfield Cathedral

give us an approval rating of 89%.

“We want to explore the benefits, economically and socially that promoting those activities a Cathedral town does best will bring to the City. We’re working together with the Local Authorities and Chambers of Commerce on the establishment of a ‘Cathedral Quarter’, which will highlight the historic core of Lichfield.”

Many cities have Cathedral Quarters.This name is an effective way of letting prospective visitors know that there is an extensive area of historical interest to explore (rather than just a scattering of buildings separated by car parks and ring roads). It allows a City to bring together all of its assets, to gain a larger share of tourist footfall and promote the growth of independent businesses and employment on the back of this.

In the case of Lichfield Cathedral, the historic Cathedral Close, the Cathedral itself and the heart of the City would make up the Cathedral Quarter. There are also discussions underway to create a Visitors’ Centre and improve café and rest facilities in The Close. Cathedral Quarter parking issues also need addressing, as currently one disembarking coach-load of visitors blocks the Cathedral Close completely. Adrian added: “We would like to double our visitor numbers to 400,000. Whilst recognising the needs of

visitors and pilgrims, we also need to tackle ongoing conservation and repair works; and present our 1,000 years of history in an understandable and accessible way.”

The East End Appeal that saw the renovation of the Lady Chapel will come to a triumphant close next year with the re-installation of the Herkenrode Glass. The Cathedral Quarter is part of a ten year plan that will see the Cathedral invest £7 million in the further refurbishment of the Cathedral’s interior (electrics etc), and a total of £20 million on the creation and promotion of the Cathedral Quarter. The Cathedral is a very welcoming space. It’s large enough to get lost in, and as you wander amongst the Gothic splendour, it’s also a great place to let your mind wonder too. If you would be interested in volunteering there are many opportunities available. Currently the Cathedral is looking for individuals who might want to help with ‘Tower Tours’ over the Easter period. For more information go to www.lichfield-cathedral.org

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Dains

King Edward VI students scoop award

Neil Turner, Lawrence Russell, Georgia Peterson, Jessica Roberts, Stephen Harris, Najia Begum, Camille Hunk, Alex Broadgate, Alan Moore from PAST of Lichfield .

tudents from King Edward VI School were presented with the Customer Service award at South Staffordshire Young Enterprise’s annual trade fair at the Lichfield Garrick on Saturday 1 March. Teams from schools in Lichfield, Tamworth and Cannock set up their own businesses and have been competing against each other for the overall Best Business award. On 1 March, each school taking part set up their trade stands and sold their products to the public while a team of judges marked each business. The trophy for Customer Service was awarded to the students of King Edward VI School for their company, Extensions. Extensions have created Food Fight, a new card game that teaches young children about healthy eating in a fun game. The students were presented with a trophy, sponsored by PAST Ltd, Lichfield and a cheque for £50. As well as hosting the trade fair, the Lichfield Garrick also mentored the team of students from King Edward VI School.

SI Lichfield Sewing Bee – 100 not out!

he group of Lichfield Soroptimists who formed their own Sewing Bee last year have been busy bees again, making 100 dresses for the girls in the Orphelinat Ste Therese de Lumbila, in Oubritenga, Burkina Faso. Founded in 1995 the centre is home to over 100 children and supports a further 200 in the community.

introduce new Employment Services Team

ichfield based Dains Accountants are pleased to introduce the launch of a dedicated Employment Services Department. The team, headed by Samantha Davies, has been created due to increased demand as more and more businesses require professional advice to manage the ever-increasing burden of legal and tax compliance to meet their regulatory employer obligations.

The Employment Services Team will offer a robust compliance service advising on the design, delivery and taxation of employee rewards. They will provide advice on remuneration planning including cost reduction initiatives and flexible benefits, through to innovative and complex pay and benefit structures. The team offer a mix of skills to ensure that all aspects of these complex issues are considered when designing the appropriate solution for each client.

Tax Partner and Head of Department Samantha Davies is a very well known and respected adviser in her field and has extensive knowledge of the tax treatments of all forms of employee payment. She has experienced a number of perspectives having worked as an Inspector of Taxes, in-house for a large corporate group and leading specialist teams within accountancy practices.

Michelle Perry, Senior Manager has over 10 years experience working with organisations of varying sectors and sizes including significant experience in working with larger businesses and advising on the additional requirement to make annual declarations under the Senior Accounting officer rules.

The team will be supported by Mahboob Ali who will be helping to take their services to new clients, facilitating new relationships and more generally supporting tax Business Development opportunities for the firm.

For further information about Dains or its services please visit www.dains.com

Burkina Faso is one of the poorest countries in the world. The dresses, which will clothe girls from infants to teens, were taken out there by Gillie Nicholls, founder of the charity Les Amis. The charity was set up in 2007 to serve the poor and needy of Burkina Faso.

Accompanying the dresses Gillie also took with her 50 hand knitted teddy bears which, it is hoped, will bring a smile to these children. Gillie will give a talk about the work undertaken by Les Amis at a Soroptimist Internation Regional Meeting taking place on Saturday 14th June 2014 at Quinton Methodist Church, Ridgeacre Lane, B32 1EN. For further information about this and other projects please visit the website on www.sigbi.org/lichfield Page 18 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Samantha Davies, Mahboob Ali, Spencer Wright, and Michelle Perry

email: lichfieldfactoryspecs@hotmail.co.uk

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Lichfield Pancake Races

uesday March 4th saw Lichfield’s annual Pancake Day Races that were cheered on by a huge and enthusiastic crowd! The Men’s race was won by Andrew McManus of solicitors Keelys who, in his pirate costume, was presented with his prize of a pair of Viyella socks, courtesy of Michaels Menswear. The Women’s Race was won by Charlotte Rawlinson who received free pancakes and coffee from the cafe restaurant ‘15 on the Corner’. The ever popular Mascots Race was won by Jess Smith who, dressed as a banana, was presented with a Cross pen by Salloways Jewellers. Ken Knowles, the Town Crier announced each race, and Mayor Cllr Bob Awty presented the winner’s with their prizes as the sun shone down on lots of smiling faces. A very successful event all round.

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Ladies Pamper Night raises money for Cancer Support Centre

ichfield Ladies Circle hosted a pamper and shopping night in Apres in early March and raised £900 for the Cancer Support Centre, Sutton Coldfield. The event was sponsored by Hellmann Worldwide Logistics and fund matched by Vodafone, and allowed ladies to pamper themselves with body and scalp massages, facials, spray tans, manicures and pedicures. Meanwhile stalls selling handbags, jewellery, cards, candles and skin care products gave the ladies a great luxury shopping experience.

Helen McDonald, Ladies Circle Chair commented: “The pamper and shopping night was a fantastic event and I would like to thank the organisers, stall holders and hair and beauty technicians for giving up their time to raise so much money for a fantastic cause. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening which was well supported by the community.”

The Scarlet Pimpernel comes to the Garrick

usical theatre enthusiasts are being treated to something different courtesy of Lichfield Operatic Society this spring. The company has chosen to recreate the swash-buckling story of The Scarlet Pimpernel. It’s a classic comical story of romance and intrigue. In 1792 an English gentleman, known only as The Scarlet Pimpernel, risks his life to help French aristocrats escape the persecution of the revolutionary government of France. However Chauvalin, a devoted supporter and Agent of the French government, is out to expose the mysterious hero and prevent the Pimpernel and his league of gentlemen from saving these victims from the guillotine. The Scarlet Pimpernel is a daring and exciting musical. Songs include the rousing Madame Guillotine and Into the Fire, the amusing The Creation of Man and the hauntingly beautiful When I look at you. The production features Jordan Adams in the title role and Jo Edwards as Marguerite St Just (Lady Blakeney). Peter Beck takes on the role of the villain, Chauvalin and Michael Manser plays Armand. Production Director Lynne Hill said: “The cast and production team have had such fun putting this show together and although the music in this show may be unfamiliar it is thrilling and exciting and I believe audiences will leave the theatre buzzing. Why not have a preview and listen to the music on YouTube." The company’s 119th production runs at the Lichfield Garrick from Tuesday April 29 to Saturday May 3 at 7.30pm, plus a Saturday matinee at 2.30. Tickets from the box office on 01543 412121 or online: www.lichfieldgarrick.com.

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Personal injury cases are no picnic A

t some point in your life, you will probably be involved in an accident where someone is injured. It may be someone else’s fault and you need to claim compensation for personal injuries or loss of earnings, or you may have received notification of a potential claim against you. In both cases, you may need some kind of legal advice and assistance. Sometimes people try to conduct their own personal injury cases, usually because they want to avoid paying legal costs. The irony is that by conducting their own cases, they may unwittingly be increasing the risk of having to pay an expensive costs order in the future. I take dozens of calls each year from people who attempt to deal with their own personal injury cases or are trying to fight what they see as a wholly unjust or unfair claim being made against them. By the time they reach me, these cases are a mess. The individual has reached a point where they simply do not know which way to turn and the frustration is obvious. Quite often, the very same people do not realise that they can get help relatively cheaply. In some cases, particularly where an employer is defending a case brought by an employee, they may already have an insurance policy which covers the employer for any claims. The insurance company will fund a legal representative to deal with the case, leaving the employer to get on with running their business instead of spending their valuable time defending the case. The same applies to individuals with a personal injury claim; if you are

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injured in an accident you may already have legal cover in your household insurance policy or your motor insurance policy that will cover your solicitor’s costs. In the past few years, the way personal injury cases are conducted has dramatically changed. There are protocols to follow, web based portals, restrictions on expert evidence and restrictions on legal costs. Cases are subject to strict timetables and documents need to be exchanged on time. Missing any of these time limits may severely jeopardise the outcome of your case. If you think you may have a personal injury claim, speak to a solicitor at the first available opportunity. They will help you establish whether you have existing cover to deal with any case and talk through your options for funding your claim. Whilst the prospect of representing yourself may seem exciting, the reality is that self-represented litigants often come unstuck in the legal process, finding it difficult, frustrating and stressful. An experienced personal injury solicitor can take away the strain and the risk of pursuing or defending your case. Adam Penn Ansons Solicitors

At The Crossroads T

comes to the Garrick Studio

wo community arts groups are collaborating to present a new play in Lichfield. Lichfield Mysteries and Tamworth’s Fired Up Theatre have joined forces for two performances of At The Crossroads: The Bible, Burlesque & the Blues.

Co-writers Mal Dewhirst and Simon Quinn explained the story behind the unusual title: “With a vibrant backdrop of burlesque, some classic blues music, physical theatre and not a little dark humour, At The Crossroads projects a theatrical and contemporary confrontation between Satan and The Messiah; borrowing a little from the Faustian rules and regulations!”

The play at the Lichfield Garrick Studio will involve actors, musicians and dancers, who are currently working on the production.

Performances are Friday and Saturday May 9 and 10 and tickets are £12 (£10 students) from the Garrick on 01543 412121 or online: www.lichfieldgarrick.com.

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BYSTANDER

On Sunday 23rd March shoppers braved the rain and hail to browse around the 'Make Your Momma Proud' Designer Made and Vintage Mother's Day market held in the Market Square. Despite the strong winds, there were lots of smiles in evidence!

Burntwood Lions make a difference

Landlady of the Kings Head Deb & her daughter Melissa Rackham

urntwood Lions members are making a donation of £500, alongside Lions Clubs throughout the British Isles and Ireland who have pledged £200,000 to dispatch 1,000 Lifesaver water filtration systems. These aim to provide up to 20 million litres of drinking water to communities affected by the devastating Typhoon Hiayan that took place in November last year in the Philippines. Members are also helping The Mercian Benevolent Fund and Combat Stress by making two donations of £100. They also donated two soft toys to be raffled by the Kings Head in Lichfield (proceeds to the fund). The Lions Clubs International Foundation maintains a disaster fund enabling the organisation to respond immediately. Donations go directly to local relief efforts co-ordinated by Lions in affected communities. Burntwood Lions President John Wallage, said: “Although the majority of the money that we raise is used for the help and support of local people and organizations, we are also able to help when disaster strikes anywhere in the world through our network of clubs worldwide.”

Groovy Swinging Sixties exhibition

Burntwood Lions Craft Fair Great Success

urntwood Lions would like to say a very big ‘thank you’ to all those who attended their Craft Fair last year. On Saturday the 16 November Burntwood Lions held their 11th annual craft fair at Burntwood Memorial Club. Over 400 people attended. Shoppers enjoyed a range of over 40 different stalls selling everything from handmade greeting cards, pickles and chutneys to bird tables and a Tombola with a first prize of a huge hamper filled with goodies, plus a raffle with Christmas Teddies as prizes. Throughout the day stall holders and customers were entertained by the Erasmus Darwin School Jazz Band, to the delight to everybody. All the monies raised went towards the Burntwood Lions Santa Special, where over 300 disabled and disadvantaged children go for a ride on a steam train, and visit Santa’s grotto where they meet Father Christmas and receive a present, followed by a fish and chip lunch.

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n exhibition of memorabilia from the 1960s is taking place at Lichfield Museum at St Mary's in the Market Square this spring. Lichfield Museum is hosting an exhibition of local 1960s memorabilia from March until Monday 30 June 2014. The display will feature a collection of clothes, records, photographs and much more from the decade that brought us The Beatles, mini skirts and the beehive. The Swinging Sixties exhibition will run at Lichfield Museum until 30 June, Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 3.30pm. The display is free, but normal entry prices apply. Admission prices to Lichfield Museum: £2.50 for adults, £2 for concessions, £1 for children over 5 and £6 for a family. Children go free during the school holidays. To find out more about Lichfield Museum at St Mary's in the Market Square, please visit www.stmaryslichfield.co.uk

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Competition Winners

Ivison the Lichfield Florist Mother's Day Bouquet Competition. Congratulations to Sara Allen of Tudor Close, Lichfield, winner of a spectacular bouquet and box of chocolates courtesy of Ivison the Lichfield Florist. Boots Mother’s Day Competition Congratulations to Mrs Lynette Knight of Winchester Close, Handsacre, winner of the Soap and Glory Gift Set.

Midland Air Ambulance Charity Karting Day

n Sunday June 15th Midland Karting will be holding an Endurance Race Charity Event in aid of Midland Air Ambulance. Test your driving skills against your mates or colleagues and help raise funds to support this fabulous and life saving service! Entry fees are £150 per team (a team can have up to six individuals) and there’ll be ten teams competing per race. For more information or to book your place (with a small deposit) call on 01543 418419 or email at sales@midlandkarting.co.uk More information is also available at www.midlandkarting.co.uk Entry fees cover safety briefing, all safety equipment and karts plus medals and trophies for the top competitors presented on the Winner’s Podium complete with bubbly! There are two races to choose from, starting at 10.00am and 2.00pm, each lasting 2.5 hours (including 30 minutes practice session). Race for as long as you wish before handing on to your team mates. The team with the fastest overall time wins! Midland Karting can be found at Wood End Lane, Fradley Park, Lichfield WS13 8NF.

Winners of Uttoxeter Race Day Carol O'Brien treated her mum to a day out at the the English Grand National on Saturday15 March.

Society of Artists awards

The Lichfield Society of Artists' award day was well attended with many artists from the locality having some spectacular work exhibited on Saturday 15 March. The gallery space at Lichfield Library was filled to overflowing. There was some remarkable artwork on show including mixed media, sculpture and needle-craft. The Mayor Cllr Bob Awty and Chairman of Lichfield District Council Cllr David Latham, as well as Michael Fabricant MP were all enjoying this prestigious annual event.

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Quiz Master for 21 years!

ednesday 19th March was the 21st anniversary of the Lichfield Rotary Club’s annual Quiz night (held at the Badar Hall , King Edward’s School). It has also been 21 years since quiz master, Simon James from Yoxall, first compiled the questions. He has hosted the event for every year since bar one. Some 156 people, or 39 teams took part on the 19th with teams of friends competing as well as many from local Lichfield companies. With a panel of six judges formed from Rotary members the 130 questions were tough in part, particularly the music quiz which had some scratching their heads. The event managed to raise well over £1000 for local charities and each team paid £24 to enter. The winners were a team from the architectural company Brownhill, Hayward and Brown who have won the event three times in the past. Well done to Mark Allport, Charlie Brown, Joe White and Phil White who were presented with a silver trophy and a dozen bottles of wine. The two runners up were also each awarded four bottles of wine. In second place came a team from CT Planning from Lichfield who were the winners last year. Third was a team calling themselves the Geriatrics and Pacemakers! “A night of fun” said many contestants and one that almost attracted the highest number of participants in the history of the event.

business selling electronic cigarettes has bucked the trend of shops struggling on the High Street by opening 6 outlets since December, and has now opened the 6th in the centre of Lichfield at 3 Bakers Lane next door to Boots and Thorntons. 2013/14 has been very busy for Peter Lawton and Stephen Brimble the owners of MIST electronic cigarettes: “The main reason for opening shops on the High Street rather than online is that there are lots more things we can do in shops, like showing and getting to feel and taste the product;” said Stephen Brimble, “You can get a lot more from a shop rather than just clicking a picture on a website, no matter how much information you put on a website it’s still not the same as the real thing.” He added: “We have a massive variety of products with different tastes and strengths, with prices as low as £4.99 for a disposable cigarette that equals 20 traditional cigarettes to a high-end handmade rechargeable, refillable variable voltage vaporizer that retails for around £250, we have products to suit all tastes and budgets, our customers are saving thousands of pounds every year by switching to E-Cigs, an average of £2,000 a year. Peter Lawton said: “When we speak to a customer we ask them what they usually smoke and we can usually make an educated guess about what would be best for them. Our customers are encouraged to TRY before they Buy, so they can choose the best flavour that suits them.” MIST stocks a massive range of MisterSmoke’s ever popular range of Electronic cigarettes, and they will be strongly promoting the company’s newest range of ELiquid, The Super E Juice e-Liquid range, which was launched in November 2013 is produced by Mister Smoke in Derbyshire. The E-Liquid range is produced from clinically tested ingredients set exclusive to UK product regulations, which includes the finest pharmaceutical grade nicotine base. The E-Liquid range is vast with over 100 flavours and strengths with prices starting from £3.99. He added that there had been a boom in the popularity of electronic cigarettes in the last 18 months as people are switching to a healthy alternative and many people are attempting to quit smoking, with one of the main reasons being that electronic cigarettes didn’t contain harmful chemicals and carcinogens plus they’re a lot cheaper than smoking traditional cigarettes, he stated. Three months of smoking traditional tobacco cigarettes poses a greater risk to someone’s health, on average, than a lifetime of using a low-risk alternative. “Safe doesn’t exist. But electronic cigarettes are low risk compared to regular cigarettes that contain over 4,000 chemicals, Stephen said that a recent study by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) showed that electronic cigarettes detected 8.2ng/g traces of nitrosamines in their ingredients, which is equal to one billionth of a gram, while normal cigarettes contained levels of nitrosamines of 11,190 parts per billion, which makes an electronic cigarette a much safer alternative to smoking.” The Official grand opening of the new MIST electronic cigarette store located at 3 Bakers Lane,Three Spires Shopping Centre took place recently. Senior management and staff were there to answer any questions that the public had regarding switching to smoking electronic cigarettes and the cost savings that they could make and let the customers try before they buy. Peter Lawton said the highlight of our day’s work is when a new customer walks in smelling of cigarettes, and their eyes light up upon taking their first quality draw off an e-cig. Their immediate recognition that there’s really a better alternative is what keeps us happy. The store is open from 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Saturday, Sunday 10.30-4.30, traders and public are very welcome.

Electronic Cigarettes Store opens in Lichfield

Mist E-Cigs Proudly Produces their own "E-Juice" Mist E-cig brand to produce their own e-liquid

he electronic cigarette industry is officially booming and with more than 250 e-cig brands crowding this relatively new market, it is essential to stand out. Mist Electronic cigarette High Street stores have started to produce their own eliquid, giving them two important legs up on the competition. They hold ultimate control over the quality of their product and the unparalleled ability to educate consumers about the heart and soul of their electronic cigarette. "We are firm believers in the power of the electronic cigarette to contribute to a safer lifestyle for the one in five British people who continue to smoke traditional tobacco cigarettes despite indisputable evidence of the dangers of doing so," explains Peter Lawton, of MIST electronic Cigarettes. "However we are well aware of the controversy surrounding our fledgling industry so we are committed to providing a superior product and educating consumers and advocates on both sides of the discussion. The best way we know to accomplish both of those core goals is by producing our own e-liquid in a controlled environment."

E-liquid Gold Standard • All of MIST’S E-Cigs' juices are made with Kosher and food safe ingredients, UK. Pharmacopeia grade PG and VG and 99 percent laboratory grade nicotine. • MIST e-liquid features a PG/VG ratio, which is ideal for the ultimate vaping experience – smooth but with enough of a throat hit to mimic the smoking experience for customers using MIST’S products to quit traditional tobacco cigarettes. • MIST E-Cigs' facility adheres to the same manufacturing practices of the food manufacturing industry. This strict protocol and procedure is practiced throughout the entire manufacturing process, from recipe development to bottling, ensuring consistency of quality. • MIST e-liquids are guaranteed contaminant free. • MIST’S self-imposed high standards of operation give consumers peace of mind. They also give confidence in their readiness to adhere to any new guidelines for eliquid production. About MIST Electronic Cigarettes MIST E-Cigs are based in Birmingham, United Kingdom, with high street retail outlets located throughout the United Kingdom. It was founded in 2013 by Peter Lawton and Stephen Brimble. Their complete line of electronic cigarettes is vast and includes everything vapers need from disposable e-cigs to the innovative variable voltage MODS, which gives users the ability to customize their vapors to their individual taste. For more information visit www.mistuk.co.uk or call into a high street store near you (Bromsgrove, Chelmsley Wood, Dudley, Lichfield, Merry Hill, Perry Barr, Redditch).

3 Bakers Lane, (Next door to Boots and Thorntons), Lichfield WS13 6NF Head Office 0121 515 5944 Page 27

Florabella Collection, elegant feminine jewellery for Spring 2014

ward winning jewellery designer, Sarah Ho, has an elegant feminine charm that is reflected in her jewellery. Her latest Florabella Collection is now available at City Jewellers, Lichfield.

designs that will stand the test of time. The vision is to create fine jewellery that will be as stylish and cherished today as it will be treasured for years to come.

Each collection Sarah designs has a story to tell and City Jewellers has carefully selected beautiful pieces from the latest Florabella Collection.

Florabella Bluebell Pearl Set

Celebrities are loving the Florabella collection with Kimberley Walsh, Jacqueline Jossa & Shone McGarty (Eastenders) and actress Michelle Collins all recently seen wearing pieces from the Florabella Collection.

Sarah also has 18 carat gold collections that have been a celebrity hit on the red carpet with Jourdan Dunn, Nicole Scherzinger and Portia Freeman to name a few.

Sarah also offers a bespoke design service where she works closely with clients to develop and design the perfect piece of jewellery that is individually handmade by expert craftsmen to the highest standards. Here Sarah can empathise with the customers’ own life chapters, taking elements to paint a portrait so each piece is significant and personal to them.

Information on Sarah Ho and her other collections is available at www.shojewellery.com.

Sarah Ho designing

Fascinated by the passion for jewellery worn by her stylish grandmother and iconic 70’s fashion model mother, along with her eminent family heritage, Sarah has created a beautiful fine jewellery portfolio that reflects the different milestones in her life. Each collection is a new chapter, a story told through beautiful gemstones and precious metals creating stylish jewellery designs with an everlasting elegance. Delicate fine lines and intricate lacework are Sarah’s signature features.

Visit City Jewellers to see the beautiful display of the Florabella Collection.

Florabella Large Necklace, smoky quartz, white topaz, rhodolite, pink pearls

Florabella prices range from £100 - £850.

The inspiration for this collection comes from the English country garden and the freedom of the countryside which were memorable for Sarah when she moved to the UK from Macau as a child. Memories of

“Writers have words to express themselves, my story is told through my jewellery.” explains Sarah Ho. The brand takes a modern approach to create

Florabella Bella Rings, silver and rose vermeil

bluebells, daisies and buttercups reflect happy childhood days. Daisies symbolise childhood innocence, bluebells humility and buttercups childishness. The name Florabella has links to the Roman Goddess of Flowers too.

The Florabella Collection is made in silver and silver with 18ct rose vermeil in line with current trends. Added colour comes from the beautiful gemstones - smoky quartz, rhodolite, white topaz and pink pearls.

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Florabella Cuff, rose gold vermeil smoky quartz, white topaz, rhodolite, pink pearls

Florabella jewellery collection inspired by the English country garden by:-

Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park needs you!

Shirt Draw

ichfield Proms in Beacon Park is a free event for the whole family, and Lichfield District Council is hoping lots of sponsors will come forward to help raise the money needed to help stage the outdoor concert extravaganza.

This year’s Lichfield Proms is on Saturday 6 September, when thousands of locals will gather in Beacon Park for a spectacular evening of entertainment.

Set to feature The British Police Symphony Orchestra and the City of Lichfield Concert Band, along with a fireworks finale, it is the event to end the summer in style. Sponsoring proms gives companies an unrivalled opportunity to promote their businesses to thousands of local people and visitors. Sponsors can benefit from their logos appearing on posters, leaflets, the glossy programme, news stories, and on the Lichfield Proms website.

Sponsors also have prime seats at the event - right in front of the stage. Sponsorship packages range from £50 to £2,000, and companies can also take advantage of a special corporate entertainment package.

Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said: “We couldn’t stage Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park without our sponsors. Sponsoring the event is a fantastic way to show your support for the local area, and your brand will be seen by thousands of people from across the region. Whether you can offer £50 or £2,000, your contribution will be appreciated and will help make this year’s event possible.”

If you are interested in sponsoring Lichfield Proms, please email proms@lichfielddc.gov.uk or call 01543 308774. For the latest Lichfield Proms www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/lichfieldproms

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news

and

special

offers,

visit

The Mayor, Cllr Bob Awty, was on hand to draw the winner's names in a Gazette competition where lucky readers won men's shirts. The competition was organised by Michaels Menswear of Market Street and Seidensticker, the renowned German shirt manufacturers.

Local lads bring Superbowl to Staffordshire

wo Staffordshire teenagers are flying high in the rough, tough world of American football. The pair of would-be Superbowlers have been picked to play for the Great Britain Alistair Willcox and under-19 team and have come away with Leo Chuck. victory from their first game. Best friends Alistair Willcox, 19, from Brereton and Leo Chuck, also 19 from Whittington, who is now living in Bloxwich, went through a long and gruelling selection process including multiple trials and a selection camp before making the national team. In their first national game at the Gateshead Stadium in Newcastle against The Netherlands under-19s, Great Britain Lions ran out 28 – 14 winners. Both youngsters played rugby for Lichfield, starting as under-10s and progressing to the adult game. They both developed an interest in American football and play for Tamworth Phoenix. “We both love American football. It probably stems from our love of rugby, from which American football originally developed. It’s a great honour to be picked for the Great Britain team and we hope to progress further in the game,” said Alistair, a former pupil of Hagley Park Sports College in Rugeley and King Edward VI School in Lichfield. Alistair now studies broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University. Leo works for Rugeley-based Kribensis Leisure Contracts, a specialist hotel, restaurant and bar construction company.

Humpty Dumpty put it together for Sports Relief

Humpty Dumpty with Nurseries in Lichfield and Yoxall have so far raised a total of ÂŁ1,190, across both of the nurseries, for this year's Sports Relief. Most of the staff participated throughout the day riding an exercise bike and walking/running on a treadmill and cross trainer. Over 360 miles were covered across both the nurseries and all the children jumped in their woolly jumpers or woolly hats raising this incredible amount of money for Sports Relief. At Yoxall they even had a group of ladies come and knit with the children (knitting and woolly). The ladies donated some woolly toys for them to sell and the money raised from the sale will also be given to the Sports Relief Charity. Fruit was also handed out to the children as they left for the weekend.

Staff joining in too

Children learning to knit at the Yoxall Nursery

Page 32 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

20% OFF Finding the Perfect Solution for You

Many of us have missing teeth. Pregnancy, ill health, accidents or just life can lead to the loss of one or two teeth, and if they’re not in a position where they can be seen, more often than not we don’t think about having them replaced. A missing front or side tooth without doubt affects your smile, and affects how often and how openly you smile. Sadly, it also affects how you are perceived by others as it suggests, however wrongly, that the individual is uncaring about their appearance, and possibly even untrustworthy! A missing tooth at the back of the mouth can also have a detrimental effect as teeth are living things that constantly shift their position and rely on the support of each other to stay firm and in position. One missing tooth can allow the others around it to tip and tilt and become less firmly set in the jaw. It can even lead to the shrinkage of bone in the jaw and the successive loss of more and more teeth. If you have a missing tooth in the lower jaw, the corresponding tooth that sits above it in the upper jaw can start to grow down, making chewing and movement difficult. A lost tooth can also mean that you favour one side of the mouth when chewing, leading to an eventual deeping of facial lines on the side that you use less. In short, a lost tooth may be out of sight, but rarely should it be out of mind. Matt Burnell BSc Hons Dip CDT RCS who runs The Smile Centre is a Clinical Technician and is highly expertised in his field of cosmetic dentistry. To many of us, cosmetic dentistry means veneers, or implants, where replica teeth are secured by means of a pin that’s set into the jaw, but how many of us consider a denture as a purely cosmetic procedure? Dentures are cosmetic. In one fell and painless swoop they transform the smile, but

they are also a modern and effective way of correcting all of the problems discussed. When clients first visit The Smile Centre, Matt talks through with them what they would like to achieve, and there’s no rush or hard sales involved. There are many modern denture options, including the metal based denture, this style of denture is held in place by the use of clasps and rests which hold it securely in place. Another bonus with the metal based denture is that the metal plate conducts heat from the food in your mouth, which makes it a totally naturalfeeling experience. Old fashioned dentures would not do this, so it was difficult to ever forget that you had one in, leading to many removing them when they ate. Dentures can also be secured by metal clips to the surrounding teeth for a perfect ‘bite’ or stay in place through an acrylic plate that is perfectly moulded to your palette and gums for suction without the need of adhesives. One of the things that struck me about Matt and his team is that they show great empathy for those who are struggling with a lost tooth, or an ill-fitting denture. They understand that our teeth and our smile are very sensitive subjects, and deal with each customer or enquiry with discretion as well as professionalism. Where necessary, they work with a client’s dentist (or can suggest a dentist who is an expert in any procedure needed) to offer each customer the most stress free and caring experience, and the results are extraordinary. Dentures are now as life-enhancing and appearance-changing as any other form of cosmetic dentistry and so comfortable to wear and discreet that one lady has kept her new denture totally secret, even from her husband. All people know is that she looks great!

In celebration of our 2nd birthday

Dentures start from as little as £550 and can last for up to 15 years. If you’re struggling with an old or ill fitting denture, or want to explore replacing lost teeth, The Smile Centre would be delighted to talk you through your options. They’re lovely people and their work is second to none.

Come directly to a Clinical Dental Technician - The Smile Centre is the only Clinical Dental Technician’s Practice in Lichfield. Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. Out of hours appointments by arrangement.

• REPAIRS • DENTURES • FINANCE • RELINES • DENTURE STABILISATION AVAILABLE

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Lichfield Sinfonia Concert May 18th

ichfield Sinfonia returns to its home in Lichfield Guildhall on Sunday 18th May with an eclectic programme of music. The orchestra, made up of local musicians, and led by resident conductor Sara Birchall, will start the evening with the Weber Overture Der Freishutz. This will be followed by a performance of the Grøndahl Trombone Concerto, played by Nicholas Conn. Nicholas is a graduate of the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, and is currently in Britain studying for a Master of Music degree at the Royal Northern College of Music. He is the current trombonist on the RNCM Professional Experience Scheme with Opera Nor th and has had the opportunity to play alongside members of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic. Nicholas has already performed extensively in the USA and his playing style

ranges effortlessly from Classical to Jazz. This concerto, written by the Danish composer Grøndahl in 1924, is one of the most popular in the trombone repertoire – and deservedly so as it shows the instrument off with romantic melodies beautifully interwoven with the orchestra. The Sinfonia carries the romantic theme on with music from Mendelssohn’s suite A Midsummer Night’s Dream, culminating of course with the Wedding March. The programme will finish with more incidental music to a play in the form of the Masquerade Suite by Khachaturian which includes the famous Masquerade Waltz. The Concert starts at 7.30, and tickets, priced £8.00, are available through www.lichfieldsinfonia.ticketsource.co.uk or call 01543264718.

Elgar’s Apostles at Lichfield Cathedral

he Apostles is one of Elgar’s most eloquent and beautiful works, with dramatic choral writing and a vivid and exciting orchestral score, and the Cathedral Chorus’ forthcoming performance looks set to bring all that drama and excitement to Lichfield Cathedral. From the haunting beauty of the dawn psalm to the terror felt by the disciples on the storm-tossed sea, the Apostles is filled with contrasts. The story of Jesus’ life through its impact on those closest to him, it is an intense, emotional journey through the lives of very ordinary men and women. Perhaps less familiar than much of Elgar’s work, the Apostles is rarely performed outside the major cities, as it requires six soloists, choir and semi-chorus, organ and augmented orchestra. Indeed, this is the Cathedral Chorus’ first performance of the work in its more than 50 year history. Conductor Ben Lamb, Lichfield Cathedral joint director of music, said: “Everyone knows ‘Pomp and Circumstance’ or the ‘Dream of Gerontius’ and we are delighted to bring this moving and exciting work to Lichfield.” Chairman Eric Lunt added: “This is a great opportunity for the Cathedral Chorus, and we also look forward very much to being accompanied by Cathy Lamb, Lichfield Cathedral joint director of music, on the organ, and the Darwin Ensemble Chamber Orchestra (DECO).” DECO has developed a strong reputation for the quality of its players and its exciting performances. Cathy directs the Girl Choristers, runs the Cathedral's singing outreach project MusicShare and occasionally plays the organ for services and recitals Inspired in his schooldays by the remark of a teacher, Francis Reeve "The Apostles were poor men, young men, at the time of their calling; perhaps before the descent of the Holy Ghost not cleverer than some of you here" Elgar completed the Apostles, part one of a projected trilogy, for its first performance in Birmingham in 1903. The second part, the Kingdom, was first performed in 1906, although the final part was never written. Elgar wrote the libretto himself, basing it on texts from the Bible. Seeming to identify particularly with Judas’ emotions, he gave some of the most intense parts of the work to this character. “No one could write for English as well as Elgar” – Adrian Partington, Director of Music, Gloucester Cathedral The Apostles will be performed in Lichfield Cathedral on Saturday April 12th, 7.30pm. Tickets, priced from £7.50 to £17.50, are available now from Lichfield Garrick Box Office 01543 412121, www.lichfieldgarrick.com

Page 34 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Same Sex Weddings Legal in March

Helen Bradin, Partner Bradin Trubshaw & Kirwan LLP based on Beacon Street, Lichfield.

The ‘Gay Marriage’ debate has topped the headlines in recent months as the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act officially became law in July 2013. It has been a controversial and historic journey but same-sex weddings can take place from 29th March 2014. Since the introduction of the Civil Partnership Act in 2005 more than 100,000 people have entered into Civil Partnerships, five times more than originally predicted - in the West Midlands alone, 1624 Civil Partnerships were made between 2008 and 2011. Yet despite such progress there is still some confusion over the legal status of civil partners and same sex married couples. Here Helen Bradin, Partner at solicitors Bradin Trubshaw & Kirwan LLP, touches on some of the key points:

A Civil Partnership is not a Marriage Before the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act same sex couples could only have a civil procedure and enter into a Civil Partnership - a legal relationship for same sex couples that gives similar, although not identical, rights as Marriage on matters such as inheritance, pensions, life insurance, child maintenance and next of kin. ‘Straight’ or opposite sex couples can choose a religious or civil marriage ceremony whereas the word ‘Marriage’ is religious which is why it was previously excluded.

A same sex Marriage is the same as a Marriage between a man and a woman Essentially the new Act, which only applies to England and Wales, means that same sex Marriages are lawful and the equivalent to a Marriage between a man and a woman. Couples can elect to marry in a civil or religious ceremony but only where the religious organisation has ‘opted in’ and the minister of religion agrees. Religious organisations such as the Church of England, Church in Wales and other faith groups - opposed to conducting same sex Marriages are protected by the Act from legal challenge. There are a couple of exceptions to same sex Marriages though – divorce cannot be granted on the grounds of adultery and Marriages cannot be annulled because of non-consummation. Also, there is still inequality respective to pensions but a review relating to occupational pension schemes and survivor benefits is underway by the Secretary of State.

A Civil Partnership cannot yet be converted into a Marriage At the present time an existing Civil Partnership does not automatically become a Marriage. There are however plans for this to become possible by the end of this year – it is taking longer as new procedures and processes have to be introduced. What this means though is that couples who wish to marry before the process is finalised will have to formally dissolve their Civil Partnership first. Yet dissolution is only possible on the grounds of unreasonable behaviour, two years’ desertion, two years’ separation (with consent) or five years’ separation (without consent). This delay has been disappointing for many in the gay community. Once a Civil Partnership can be converted into a Marriage, the Civil Partnership will come to an end. The Marriage will be considered as if it had existed from the date of the Civil Partnership. Civil Partnerships remain legally recognised in England and Wales – so same sex couples now have the choice of getting married or entering into a Civil Partnership.

Holding a same sex Marriage A same sex Marriage has to be held in an appropriately registered building which means that the religious organisation has to apply to the Registrar General for a building to be certified as a place of worship and to be registered as authorised to sanctify a same sex Marriage.

For advice on family and other legal matters contact Bradin Trubshaw & Kirwan LLP on 01543 421840 for a consultation or email hcb@btpsolicitors.co.uk Page 35

Celebrating Fifteen Years of Erasmus Darwin House

rasmus Darwin House is celebrating 15 successful years that have seen the Museum dedicated to Erasmus Darwin change beyond recognition.

Before renovations

Twenty years ago this Georgian House situated in the Cathedral Close was in a very poor state. It had been home for 26 years to one of the Georgian era’s most amazing minds - Erasmus Darwin.

The first steps towards the idea of creating the museum were taken at a lunch attended by four doctors, the Administrator of the Cathedral, Tony Barnard and Anne Barnard, who discussed what could be done to help the Cathedral Chapter restore Darwin House.

From this small beginning came The Erasmus Darwin Foundation. The initial group of Tony Barnard

The exterior today (who many people will know from the time as Canon Tony Barnard) and Anne Barnard, Gordon Cooke, David Wallington, Denis Gibbs and Chris and Hazel Baker was soon joined by Erasmus Darwin Barlow (a direct descendant of the great man), Dr Desmond King-Hele (a leading scholar and biographer of Erasmus), and John Sanders (the local creator of the Erasmus Darwin Walk).

Over five years, with the help of funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Europe, the million plus pound project came to fruition. The designers Bremner and Orr were guided by Desmond KingHele in the development of three main exhibition rooms. Objects on loan were also secured from various sources including English Heritage and on April 9th 1999, the Museum opened to the public. Work starts on the exterior

Tony Barnard, founder member of Erasmus Darwin House commented: “The first ten years were

demanding but exciting, as we worked to develop the museum and make it a useful resource for the local community and its schools, as well as the general public. Over this period, we learnt a lot more about Erasmus Darwin, benefited from Desmond King-Hele’s scholarship, the considerable interest in Erasmus of other scholars, and the considerable support of Christopher and Heather Darwin.

“Everyone at The Foundation always tries to keep the Museum and its interaction with the public moving forward and have always had exciting and challenging plans. In 2009 refurbishment of the two main exhibition rooms took place, realising that there was a need to upgrade the material and use more contemporary means of education and communication. Just as in all good makeover shows this meant stressful weeks and a late frantic night before our reopening to the public!” Again in 2013 changes took place in the Inventions Room, bringing the thoughts and inventions from Erasmus Darwin’s fascinating Commonplace Book off the page.

The museum today The Museum works with a large group of volunteers who keep the cogs of the Museum moving, undertaking everything from running the reception desk to making Georgian costumes and running education and science workshops. This small independent Museum and garden is a wonderful place to visit with something for every member of the family. Erasmus Darwin House also offers a great location for weddings and conferences, and can facilitate group visits from societies, clubs and schools. Please call 01543 306260 for more information or visit www.erasmusdarwin.org. The house can be found on Beacon Street, WS13 7AD.

Before renovations Page 36 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if...’ Photographic Competition

aul Oakley, Editor of the Gazette and I were recently asked to judge the entries in a photographic competition held by the Facebook group You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if... The competition had a professional and amateur section, and photographs were to be on the theme of Lichfield. We were very impressed by the standard of the entries, and it was a hard job to decide between the top images. However, in the end we chose the pictures below that stood out for their artistry and originality. Joss Musgrove Knibb, Deputy Editor

Professional Category First Place By Mark Walden

J HOWELL & DAUGHTERS

NOW LICHFIELD’S ONLY FAMILY OWNED FUNERAL DIRECTORS 24 hours a day

Jonathan says: “We are a proud family business in Lichfield, we offer a wide range of choices to suit people’s requirements, including horse-drawn, all religions/non-religious catered for, floral tributes, and memorials. Also pre-paid funeral plans available.” A truly personal service from a caring family

Highly Commended By Nicola Tonks

Amateur Category First Place By Carol Smith

Highly Commended By Warren Dransfield-Scott

TELEPHONE : 01543 255766 Situated 116 Netherstowe Lane, Lichfield WS13 6TS

PARKING DIRECTLY OUTSIDE

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If you want to get ahead...

hanks to the Lichfield Heritage Centre for these fascinating images that show how hat and hair fashions changed from the 1880s to the 1920s.

This image shows a group of hops-pickers with a seated ‘supervisor’ in around 1880.The older ladies are wearing bonnets that haven’t changed in style since the 1820s. Hats were smaller in the 1880s and 1890s, and got progressively larger as the 1900s unfolded. As you can see, regardless of social and economic status all women wore hats.

We’re closer to 1900 here. The hats are larger and are decorated with feathers. The use of feathers was deeply fashionable up until the start of WW1. Hat size reached its apogee in 1911 with the ‘My Fair Lady’ look. The younger girls wear large bows in their hair, and the young boy is wearing a wide-brimmed straw hat. A wedding in around 1920. In the years just before WW1 women’s clothes and hairstyles became far less fussy and ornate. The war accelerated this, leading to the pared-down look of the 1920s. Only the older ladies, bridesmaids and Maid of Honour are wearing hats here.

An advertisement from around 1900, before ‘ready to wear’ clothes were widely available.

A little girl photographed in around 1905. She is wearing the ‘sailor’ inspired smock dress and wide brimmed straw hat that was so fashionable for children.

Women often wonder how Edwardian ladies were able to create such full looking hairstyles. They would in fact use ‘hair frames’ over which they would pull their own natural hair. They would also use natural hairpieces and just as many products as we do today. Hairdressers were adept at creating luxuriantly full hairstyles using these methods.

The Lichfield Heritage Collection holds 12,000 items, photographs old and new, maps, books, documents etc. all relating to Lichfield past and present - copies of which can be purchased. The Heritage Collection is housed in the Lichfield Heritage Centre, St Mary’s Church, Market Square, Lichfield, Tel: 01543 256 611. The collection is free to view, opening times Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10.00am to 12.30pm.

If you have any photographs etc. relating to Lichfield, the Heritage Collection would be very grateful to receive these items for everyone to enjoy seeing them. Come and see our wonderful collection. All photographs copyright of Lichfield Heritage Centre

Page 38 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

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Stephen Sutton - Young 40 years of golf Citizen of the Year course celebrations B

olfers helped Lichfield District Council to celebrate the fortieth anniversary of Beacon Park’s golf course on Sunday 23 March. On the day, a range of activities took place, including PGA professional tuition on the first tee and the chance to take part in a golf tournament.

Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Play, said: “Despite the rather cold and blustery day, golfers enjoyed taking part in the festivities, including the professional tuition provided by Robert Rock Golf Academy.

“Our thanks once again to Swinfen Broun Charitable Trust that helped to fund the golf course in 1974, in what was one of the trust’s first major projects. It has given enjoyment to keen golfers over the decades and we hope the golf course will be enjoyed for years to come.”

Well done to Fraser Hamilton Wright who won the 12 and under category, and to Sam Brown winner of the 13 to 17 category, and to Darren Robinson who won the 18 plus category.

urntwood Town Council were pleased to announce the nomination of Stephen Sutton as Young Citizen of the Year 2013/14 at the Council meeting held on Thursday 13th March. During the meeting Stephen was presented with his certificate by Councillor Ron Bradbury, Chairman of the Council. The citation on the certificate reads: “Presented to Stephen Sutton in recognition of his tremendous courage and for being a magnificent ambassador for Burntwood, both as a person, and for his amazing effort to raise so much for the Teenage Cancer Trust.”

Creativity improves hospital experience for patients with dementia

he innovative approach of staff on Anna Ward, at Lichfield's Samuel Johnson Community Hospital, has won them the Excellence in Patient Experience Award at the Burton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust PRIDE Awards, that took place earlier this year.

Celebtrating 40 years of Beacon Park golf course

Their dedication in running regular craft and music sessions has made a hospital stay a happier and more harmonious experience for their patients, including those with dementia, from the Lichfield, Burton and Uttoxeter areas. These days there's a real buzz around the day room at Anna Ward.

Once upon a time it was a quiet place, and not always very popular with patients; now you are likely to find it filled with laugher and chatter. It's become a hive of activity with patients, their relatives, staff members and volunteers united by creativity. Sister Tina Luke, who launched regular craft and activity sessions on the ward in October 2012, explained: "Anna Ward can accommodate 26 patients - and on average we have around 13 with some degree of dementia. But at times that number has been as high as 20.

“Before we launched these sessions we had to have one-to-one care in place for some patients who would otherwise wander off, and risk falling or hurting themselves. Some dementia sufferers became very upset, depressed and disruptive.

Fraser Hamilton-Wright at Beacon Park golf course

“A hospital stay can be distressing and confusing for someone with dementia, but by providing emotional support, companionship and fun through activity sessions that engage and stimulate them, patients are much more relaxed and happy.”

Popular activities in recent months have included making fat balls for wild birds, creating table decorations, sewing, knitting, crocheting, decorating cakes and icing biscuits.Staff also run a weekly bingo session, organise sing-alongs and stir memories of days gone by with old photographs and memorabilia. Relatives are encouraged to become actively involved in the sessions, which are tailored to suit the different interests and abilities of groups of patients. Now some items made during the sessions are sold off and raffled to raise money for the scheme, and the hospital's League of Friends has also donated funds.

Vice Chair Cllr David Smith on first tee Page 40 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

The hospital would love to hear from any local people who would like to volunteer materials - especially wool and card-making equipment - or who would like to run a craft session. They are also keen to acquire old photographs of Lichfield, Burton and Uttoxeter - the towns where most patients come from - to inspire nostalgic memories and discussions. The hospital can be contacted on 01543 412900.

Win a pair of tickets to Kew Gardens with Lichfield Garden Centre

he Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew were founded in 1759 and was declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 2003. The Gardens are one of London’s top visitor attractions. Over the last 250 years, the Gardens have made innumerable contributions to increasing the understanding of plants and fungus with many benefits for mankind. As well as stunning landscapes, vistas and permanent attractions at Kew, there is a full programme of events including talks, guided walks and activities for kids. This summer, you can take in an exhibition of ‘Botanical Art in the 21st Century’, which features work from Italian artists never previously seen in the UK. Why not take a walk in the Temperate House, which is home to all manner of exotic and unusual plants both large and small? If you’ve a head for heights, try the Treetop Walkway – located 18 metres off the ground, this 200 metre long walkway guides visitors around the crowns of Lime, Sweet Chestnut and Oak Trees. As well as this, you’ll see some stunning views of London and the surrounding countryside. For more details visit www.kew.org Lichfield Garden Centre is visiting Kew Gardens on Saturday 31st May as part of its Days Away Coach Trip Programme for 2014, but we are giving two lucky Gazette readers the chance to win tickets to join them on a great day out!

WIN WIN WIN

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the following question. Q. The Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew were founded in.... A. 1759 B. 1859 C. 1959 To enter send your name, answer and contact details to Gazette Kew Gardens Competition PO Box 5414 Lichfield WS14 4EZ or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk by the competition closing date of 30th April.

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Easter Treats for all the family T

horntons have been tempting us with delicious confectionary for over one hundred years. The very first shop was opened in Sheffield by travelling confectioner Joseph William Thornton in October 1911, who handed the keys to his teenage sons Norman and Stanley and said: “Make this the best sweet shop in town!” In the past few years Thorntons has been extending its range to cater to the dedicated chocoholic with gourmet chocolate ranges that include blocks of Eton Mess, Espresso Dark, salted pistachio and 70% dark chilli chocolate, to name but a few .

Searching for the perfect Easter gift? Just step inside the doors is to be inspired. We visited the Thornton’s store in the Three Spires Shopping Centre recently, and here for your delectation we present just of few of the fantastic Easter treats we found there. R a s p b e r r y Cheesecake Egg £14.99 The mouth-watering Raspberry Cheesecake Egg is made with chunky white chocolate, juicy raspberries and biscuit pieces, making it the perfect Easter indulgence. A quirky twist on a traditional Easter Egg that's just right for the person who always asks for seconds of dessert!

Milk, Dark and White Mini Masterpieces Egg - £9.99 An extra special Easter egg with a shell made with delicious dark, milk and white chocolate, surrounded by lovely little square chocolate art creations, bursting with irresistible flavours such as toffee, fudge, orange and raspberry. Giant Harry Hopalot - £39.99 This giant Harry Hopalot chocolate model is made of delicious milk chocolate and weighs in at a massive 1.1kg. He’s the perfect gift for a whole family to share. Mini Harry Hopalots (60g) are also available in milk and white chocolate at £3.49

Cinnamon and Waffle Squegg - £5.49 Made with delicious milk chocolate, this thick,

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egg-shaped block combines real cinnamon, toffee and big chunky pieces of waffle.

F o o t y F a n a t i c Easter Egg £3.99 This delicious milk chocolate egg is decorated with a white chocolate football. Perfect for the footy fanatic in your life!

Hot Cross Bun Easter Egg £14.99 Inspired by the traditional spiced, sticky glazed fruit buns with pastry crosses, this white and milk chocolate Easter egg is made with mixed spice and orange peel to look and taste like the real thing!

Dark Chocolate Chunky Egg - £6.99 This Chunky Egg is made from the finest dark chocolate with an indulgently thick shell. Want to make it personal? Thorntons will carefully ice your message on to its side for free! Easter Squegg Lolly - £1.99 These lollies make a great little Easter treat. Taking inspiration and flavours from the fullsized Squeggs, the Cookies & Cream lolly (above) is made with white chocolate and crunchy cookie pieces. Also available in Cinnamon and Waffle.

No Added Sugar Chocolate Easter Egg - £6.99 The No Added Sugar Egg is made from creamy milk chocolate, so it's got all of the Thorntons taste with none of the extra

Kelly Morton sugar. Included in this egg is also a selection of chocolates.

There’s not room here to cover everything available in Thorntons this Easter, but the lovely ladies in the Lichfield Thorntons store will be glad to chat to you about the ranges, and help you chose what’s right for you.

Kelly Morton, Manager of the Lichfield store commented: “If you can’t see what you’re looking for on our shelves, please just let us know as we are likely to have it in our store-rooms. You can also have your gift personalised with an iced message free of charge.”

Easter treats start at just 89p, and you can have your Easter purchase presented in a wicker basket for added seasonal glamour. The store is open from 9am-5.30pm Monday to Saturday and from 11am to 4pm on Sunday. Opening hours are extended over the Easter period.

For more information www.thorntons.co.uk

Win Win Win!

We have a fantastic Milk, Dark and White Mini Masterpieces Egg to be won in our Thorntons Easter Egg Competition. To be in with a chance of winning just answer the following question.

Q. In which city was the first Thorntons shop opened? A. London B. Sheffield C. Manchester

Just send your answer, name and contact details to Thorntons Easter Egg Competition, PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk by the competition closing date of Monday 14th April. The egg will be delivered to the winner in time for Easter.

Gazette Woman Lifestyle

M&S Collection Pure Cotton Trench £245 – available from Marks and Spencer.com

Warehouse AB Clean Trench £65 – available from Debenhams.com

Barbour Tartan Trench Coat £230 – available from ASOS.com

The trench has been with us now, in one incarnation or another for over 100 years. Both Aquascutum and Burberry claim to have come up with the original design, and Thomas Burberry definitely invented ‘gabardine’, the light but warm tartan like material often used to line a trench.

In 1901 Aquascutum submitted a patent to the UK War Office for an officer’s coat, and between the two the trench was born. It was worn exclusively by officers during WWI who had to purchase it from their own funds. The shoulder straps on a trench coat were originally designed to hold epaulettes or insignia, and the D rings found on straps were for suspending equipment.

When veterans returned from the front, they brought back their trench coats. Their less military worth was immediately spotted by both men and women, and they’ve been with us ever since. As perennial as the umbrella, a good trench coat is a real thing of beauty.

Classics & History

Planet Navy Trench £179 Available from Debenhams.com

Stone Black Trim Belted Trench £39.99 Available from New Look.com

The trench coat is a staple of the English summertime wardrobe. They’re not showy or ostentatious, but add panache to business suits, tea dresses and jeans. When the weather forecast predicts sunshine and showers, it’s time to reach for a trench.

Here’s a selection of some of the best available online.

Windsmoor Citron Trench £169 - Available from Debenhams.com Electric Blue Luxe Trench £45 - Available from Dorothy Perkins.com Page 44 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Hobbs Abby Trench Coat in bronze £199 – available from John Lewis.com

M&S Collection Cotton Rich Belted Trench £95 – available from Marks and Spencer.com Stockists www.asos.com www.marksandspencer.com www.johnlewis.com www.debenhams.com www.dorothyperkins.com www.newlook.com

A Hint of Pink

Whether it’s fondant sweet or berry sharp, pink is the hot colour for Spring 2014. Wear it all together or just add a hint to instantly update your wardrobe. It’s one of the easiest trends to wear this Spring, with pastel hues, metallics and bright primary colours all adding to the mix on the catwalk.

Nishe Rose Print Shift Dress - £45 – Available from ASOS Mulberry Bayswater Pink Glossy Bag - £1,100 Ted Baker V Neck Playsuit - £149

Models Own Tropical Nail Polish in Sophies Pink £5 – Available from ASOS

Daniel Sandler Watercolour Creme Rouge Blusher in Hot Pink - £15.50

Barry M Lip Paint in Pearly Pink - £4.99

Kate Spade Metro Pink Watch - £195

ASOS Take Me Home Shoe-boots - £42

Warehouse Round Crystal Frame Sunglasses - £16 Hilfiger Denim Blazer - £120

Cheap Monday Skinny Jeans - £49 – Available from ASOS

Bourgois Shine Edition Lipstick in Oh My Doll - £7.99

Stockists barrym.com uk.tommy.com tedbaker.com katespade.com asos.com warehouse.co.uk bourjois.co.uk danielsandler.com mulberry.com

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2014’s Cycle Rides for All

ycle Rides for All launched on March 30th with an eight and a half mile ride to Fisherwick Lakes. This event signalled the start of free monthly cycle rides that take place towards the end of the month, from March through to September. On top of rides to the National Memorial Arboretum and Fradley Junction, this year’s programme also includes the two new locations, of Fisherwick Lakes and Packington Moor Farm near Weeford. The rides are graded from level 1, which is suitable for beginners, to level 4, which is for more experienced cyclists. The Cycle Ride for All 2014 programme is available from Freedom Cycles, Beacon Park’s Ranger Station and Lichfield District Council’s Frog Lane offices. To see the full Cycle Rides for All programme, please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/cyclerides To find out more, or to check whether a ride is taking place if the weather is uncertain, please call Freedom Cycles on 01543 411633 or Karl Sproston at Lichfield District Council on 01543 308846. Cycle Rides for All is run in partnership by Lichfield District Council, Freedom Cycles, Bromford Living, North Lichfield Initiative and Lichfield City Council.

Fashion Fan Club

With local Youth Clubs set to close, London College of Fashion graduate and designer Sharon Murphy announces Fashion Fan Club’s evening sessions at the Methodist Church, Lichfield (Wednesdays, 6 - 7.30 starting April 30th). Promising an exciting and innovative environment for 7-15 year olds, the club features fashion sketching, scrap booking, mood boards, weaving, marbling, draping on the tailor’s dummy, etc with piles of fabrics and magazines to inspire creativity. An Easter workshop will be held on Tuesday April 22nd, 10 - 3pm. Contact Sharon on 07917335059.

Page 46 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Francesco Group to Moon Walk 26 miles

local team from Francesco Group, Lichfield will be taking part in the 17th Moon Walk London. On May 10th 2014, Clapham Common, for the first time, will host this famous moonlit marathon and half-marathon, which will see ordinary people taking on an extraordinary challenge. Since the first Moon Walk in 1998, this unique challenge has brought together over 250,000 women and men who have the united goal of raising money and awareness for vital breast cancer causes. This year over 17,000 women and some very brave men will be taking on this unique challenge in ‘Walk the Walk’s trademark decorated bras bringing wonderful and outrageous designs to the streets of London. In previous years, the walkers have been accompanied by celebrities and personalities such as Jennifer Saunders, Emma Kennedy, Clare Balding, Gabby Logan and Walk the Walk’s own ambassador Harriet Thorpe. The Moon Walk London is organised by health Charity Walk the Walk Worldwide; this, their flagship event raised in excess of £5.6 million in 2013 alone, bringing their grand fundraising total to over £90 million for vital breast cancer causes. The Francesco Group team is made up of Alice Reeve, Owner, Charlotte Smith, Manager and Hollie Swindon, Stylist. Ten years ago, Alice underwent elective preventative surgery and members of the Francesco team have had family members and friends affected by breast cancer. The team will be covering the 26 mile course to help raise funds for Walk the Walk’s vital work. To find out more about how the money is used and other Walk the Walk Challenges, visit the website walkthewalk.org

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What’s on & Dining Out YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

Not to be missed this Spring

At this time of year we get those days when it seems summer’s finally going to happen, but we still need our cosy nights at the theatre and there’s a bumper crop of goodies on at the Garrick this month. Friday 2nd May sees the welcome return of the Don’t Go Into The Cellar Company. Their last show, a cult comedy about Sherlock Holmes and Jack the Ripper was creepy and comic in equal measures. Their latest offering Tea With Oscar is similarly What’s On April 2014

If you have a community or fundraising event that you’d like to have included in the monthly What’s On pages, please send an email to caz@lichfieldgazette.co.uk quoting the date, event title, times, venue and brief description. For commercial events please contact a member of the sales team for advertising prices.

Tue 1 Apr Neaten and Natter At Beacon Park. Our volunteer group is a great way to meet new people and help keep Beacon Park looking at its best. Tasks include litter picking, weeding and more. We’ll provide all the equipment and you can choose which tasks you want to get involved in. For more details call 01543 308867. The Doghouse Folk Club Starting at 8.00pm (doors open from 7.30pm) at the Crown Inn, Post Office Rd, Alrewas DE13 7BS. My goodness it’s been a long wait but the boys, Martin and Stef, are well and truly back in town after an enforced absence due to venue renovations. They’ll be sure to provide an excellent evening of entertainment and will encourage the audience to join in and sing along. It’s a totally nonprofit event but there will be raffle tickets on sale to support the costs and you will be ‘encouraged’ to buy one! There are more seats following the refurbishment but you'll still need to get there early if

Page 48 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

inventive, a Victorian chat show hosted by Wilde himself and featuring period guests including Marie Lloyd, Le Petomaine (enough said) and others. Saturday 3rd sees the same company offering The Singular Exploits of Sherlock Holmes in which the great man recounts highlights of his crime-busting career and includes quick costume changes, wry humour, and questions from the audience. Risky!

From Wednesday 14th April until Saturday 17th our own dear Lichfield Players will be presenting the evergreen Alan Ayckbourn comedy A Chorus of Disapproval about an amateur operatic company rehearsing The Beggar’s Opera - expect true-to-life revelations about the world of am-dram. But the big highlight for me this month will be the welcome return of the Vienna Festival Ballet with their production of that classical golden standard Swan Lake from Thursday 22nd to Saturday 24th. Trust me, this company really are the business. For younger theatre-goers half term sees the New Adventures of Puss In Boots on Tuesday 27th at

you want to bag one! Be prepared for a toe tapping night of entertainment.

Thu 3 Apr Easter Felt Wreath Making Workshop At Erasmus Darwin House. A fantastic workshop where you will learn to make and take home your own wreath for Easter. £20 including materials and refreshments. For more information call 01543 306260.

2014 Lent Lecture Series 1.15pm to 2.15pm at Lichfield Cathedral. And Words of Forgiveness & Hope Exhibition. Lecture 5. Gender & Sexuality with Dr Nicola Slee, Research Fellow, The Queen's Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education, Birmingham. Lectures are held in the Nave of the Cathedral. Entry is free but donations to a retiring collection are requested at www.justgiving/eastendappeal.com Fri 4 Apr Staffordshire Archaeological & Historical Society 8.00pm at St Mary’s Centre. A talk by Dr Turi King ‘Genetics and the Peopling of Britain’ Visitors welcome, £3 at the door. Refreshments available from 7 30pm. For more info call 01543 416144. Foodie Fridays! At The Kitchen Shop. If you love kitchen gadgets you'll love Foodie

Fridays! Every week we show off some of our unusual & best loved gadgets. You get to try them out too!

Billy Pearce 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre. National treasure, and without doubt one of Britain's most talented and best loved comedians and performers, Billy Pearce emerged from the fertile talent fields of Butlins in the mid 1980's. Multi Award winner Billy has won just about every comedy award going, including a British Comedy Award, Solo Comedian of the Year, and Best Television Comedy Newcomer at the London Palladium.

Mike McGear McCartney - Sex, Drugs & Rock ‘n’ Roll (I wish!) 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre (Studio).Mike recounts stories of Liverpool life from childhood to entering showbiz, and having to change his name to McGear due to Beatlemania. He then became an integral part of the 60s Merseybeat era. The Lunar Men 7.00pm to 9.30pm at Erasmus Darwin House. A fantastic performance incorporating music and storytelling! The Lunar Men is a collaborative and interactive performance piece centred around the extraordinary characters of the Lunar Society, a group of dynamic inventors, experimenters, and philosophers of the Eighteenth Century. Tickets are £10 and

2.30pm, but the month’s most hotly anticipated show must be the Garrick Rep Company’s first new production since Shirley Valentine, this time John Godber’s September In The Rain, a classic wry

Godber comedy reflecting the lives of his own parents and based on their annual holidays in Blackpool. September In The Rain runs in the Garrick Studio until Saturday 21st June. The month ends with a musical double-whammy, with Swansea City Opera’s production of the Marriage of Figaro on Friday 30th and on Saturday 31st Forty Years of Showaddywaddy - has it really been that long? So, another great month ahead!

See you there! Phil Preece

please book in advance to avoid disappointment!

Sat 5 – Sat 12 Apr April Sale At Arthur Price Factory Shop. Please be aware that the shop is located on the 1st floor via a staircase. If access is an issue there is a ground floor office available where products can be brought down for viewing by our dedicated customer service team. We look forward to welcoming you.

Sat 5 Apr Specialist Plant Fair 10.00am to 4.30pm at National Memorial Arboretum. Free entry to this popular plant fair featuring many highly respected specialist nurseries with a great range of perennials, shrubs, trees, rare species and old heritage varieties. Something for every plant lover. Sat 5 Apr Burntwood Singers' Spring Music Concert At Lichfield Methodist Church. A selection of music for spring and Easter-tide. £5 (tickets at door)

Wedding Open House 1.00pm to 4.00pm at Middleton Hall. A unique opportunity to see Middleton Hall dressed for a wedding ceremony and wedding breakfast! Prospective brides and grooms are invited to visit to begin the creation of their own unique and special day. Enjoy a complementary Bucks Fizz before you stroll around the fragrant

walled gardens. Becky Pugh, Wedding Co-ordinator will be on hand to guide you through your day and help with ideas and contacts.

Mr. Laurel 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Starring Jeffrey Holland. The poignancy of a life passing is relieved by the humour of Stan revisiting sketches from their most well-loved films. In a captivating hour long piece, the play explores Laurel's relationships with his family, his boss, Hardy himself and the women in his life

Official Opening of Beacon Park Skatepark 12 noon to 2.00pm at Beacon Park. The ribbon will be cut to mark the official opening of Beacon Park’s Skatepark. This will be followed by a showcase of skateboarding by pro-skaters to showcase the facility. Everyone is welcome to come to the opening to enjoy the skating. Come along at 12 noon and have some fun! Sun 6 Apr Pop Up Craft Fair 11.00am to 2.00pm at Elford Village Hall. A series of bi-monthly craft fairs taking place in the picturesque village of Elford of the A513 between Alrewas and Tamworth. For more information go to craftfairs.weebly.com or www.facebook.com/craftfairs or call 01827 383149

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD Darwin Walk From 10.00am at Bunkers Hill Car Park, Beacon Park. The Sheriff of Lichfield, Cllr Terry Thomas invites all walkers to take part in the Sheriff’s Darwin Walk which is about 10 miles long and follows a well-established route around the City boundary, taking about 4 hours. There will be a refreshment stop at Curborough Craft Centre. There is no need to complete the walk, just leave wherever you want as the City Centre is never far away, but don’t forget to wear stout walking boots - everyone is welcome. For a description and to view a map please visit the Darwin Walk website: www.darwinwalk.org.uk or for further information call Kate Durrant on 01543 309854. The People's Orchestra – A 2nd Birthday Special 7.00pm at West Bromwich Town Hall. Some of the best music from stage and screen. From the Dinosaurs of Jurassic Park to Middle Earth and the Hobbit, music has the ability to make great scenes iconic. The greatest music from stage and screen is performed live in concert by an ensemble of musicians. The evening includes music from Warhorse, Pirates of the Caribbean, Gladiator and the much loved Phantom of the Opera. Performers:The People’s Orchestra, Iain Masson Principal Conductor & Freddie Miles Assistant Conductor. For tickets call 0121 569 2614.

Fay Hield and the Hurricane Party 8.00pm at the Guildhall. Nominee for three awards for the 2014 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, Fay Hield promises a very special evening of entertainment.

Footloose 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre. The Adlib Theatre Company returns to the Garrick with this explosive hit musical. Packed with dynamic songs and dances it is the classic tale of teenage rebellion.

Tue 8 to Thu 10 Apr 51 Shades of Maggie 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Direct from sell-out runs In Glasgow, Belfast and Dublin, comes smash hit comedy Fifty One Shades of Maggie. This hilarious new play full of naughty bits will have you laughing out loud. Join Maggie and her friends on this (slightly filthy) journey of love, booze and whips!

Wed 9 to Sat 12 Apr Beside the Seaside 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Wilf and Ethel Pearson and their daughter Sally are looking forward to a week's holiday beside the seaside in the boarding house Seaview - ‘two minutes from the sea'. Unfortunately, things don't go as planned from the moment they arrive; the intrepid holiday makers soon discover that Seaview is, in fact, ten minutes on the bus and not as described in the brochure!

Wed 9 Apr Broads Travel’s Cruise Evening at Moor Hall At Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. Find out everything you ever wanted to know about cruising at the West Midlands’ cruise event of the year! There are cruise deals and exclusive offers available at the event and a free prize draw with some fantastic prizes! To book your free tickets, call Broads Travel on 0121 250 2201 or 01543 412768.

Thu 10 Apr 2014 Lent Lecture Series 1.15pm to 2.15pm at Lichfield Cathedral. And Words of Forgiveness and Hope Exhibition Lecture 6. Faith and Culture with the Rev'd John Barnett, Interfaith Officer, Wolverhampton Episcopal Area. Lectures in the Nave of the Cathedral. Entry is free but donations to a retiring collection are requested at www.justgiving/eastendappeal.com Fri 11 Apr Staffordshire Archaeological & Historical Society 8.00pm at St Mary’s Centre. A talk by Emma Jane Hopla ‘Drowned Landscapes of the North Sea’ Visitors welcome, £3 at the door. Refreshments available from 7 30pm. For more info call 01543 416144. Foodie Fridays! At The Kitchen Shop. See Fri 4 April.

Murder Mystery Evening 7.30pm to 11.00pm at Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. Join us for the case of the Deadly Diamonds …a thrilling mystery with sinister undertones! Our Murder Mystery evening includes a three course dinner during which the mystery unfolds, courtesy of our professional actors. £35 per person or £131 for 2 to include an overnight stay. We’ve Only Just Begun 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre. A celebration of the Carpenters music and the spirit of Karen Carpenter.

Sat 12 – Sun 27 Apr Sam's Easter Adventure At Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Easter holiday fun at the museum with trails, activities and competitions available every day. Free entry - £1 for trail pack.

Beacon Park's Easter Trail 9.00am to 3.30pm at Beacon Park. Follow a trail round beautiful Beacon Park to solve the clues and claim your small prize. £1 Easter Holidays At Drayton Manor Theme Park. Enjoy thrills, spills and a whole host of adventures at Drayton Manor Theme Park this Easter! Go to www.draytonmanor.co.uk for more information. Sat 12 Apr Easter Craft, Food and Gift Fair 10.00am to 3.00pm at The Guildhall.

RARE OPPORTUNITY! Of all the bars in all the World…

…you will see some of the UK’s finest and rarest pre-World War II classic cars first hand on the car park of The Swan (Mucky Duck) at Fradley Junction between 10 -12.30 on Friday 4 April. Come along and experience the magic of a bygone age in a rare glimpse of cars such as Alfa Romeo, Zagato, La Gonda, Bentley, BMW, Fraser-Nash, Alvis, De La Haye, Jaguar SS100 and more. Bring your camera and be certain you don’t miss this cavalcade of the London to Edinburgh Endurance Rally Association ‘Flying Scotsman’ Classic Reliability Trial.

Then afterwards…

Enjoy The Swan for lunch. The Swan has a superb selection of traditional homemade food such as: mixed grill; sirloin steak; beer battered cod; pork belly & black pepper; home made curries and pies; a selection of freshly made sandwiches and more. Sunday Carvery (12 – 3) Over the past six years Ricky and Tracey have resisted the urge to make The Swan into a trendy ‘gastro pub’ opting to keep it a traditional canalside-socialising pub that folk have loved for well over two hundred years. Open 7 days a week, the Swan has something for everybody. The Swan has a superb selection of beers on draught such as Abbot, Pedigree, Black Sheep, and guest ales such as Timothy Taylor, Sarah Hughes ‘Dark Ruby’, Woody’s Shropshire Lass and Holden’s Black Country Special.

And talking of something for everybody – why not call and enjoy the evening entertainment. Folk night every Thursday, Open Mic on Sunday and other events announced throughout the summer months. Why not call down to Fradley Junction and see why it is so popular with anyone who enjoys dog walking, rambling, wildlife, cycling or just watching the ducks and the folk on their boats and barges. Rick and Tracey extend a warm welcome to The Swan and Fradley Junction each and every weekend, or weekday if you feel so inclined.

The Swan at Fradley Junction Canalside eating at its best DE13 7DN Telephone 01283 790330 Dog friendly too!

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YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD Fair featuring over 25 stalls, offering unique alternatives to the high street.

Lichfield Cathedral Chorus 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. Elgar's "The Apostles" accompanied by the Darwin Ensemble Chamber Orchestra. Tickets from £7.50 and there will be some available on the door on the evening. For tickets contact Lichfield Garrick 01543 412121.

The British Police Symphony Orchestra 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Appearing in support of the Staffordshire Police Cadets. With a theme of Legends And Heroes, the orchestra will enthral the audience with music including; Rossini's William Tell Overture and Sibelius' mighty Finlandia and many more. The orchestra comprises of musicians from across the UK, many are either serving or retired police officers, police staff or other members of the extended police family.

Sun 13 to Mon 21 Apr Holy Week and Easter Church Services For details of church services go to website www.lichfield-cathedral.org or www.churchestogetherinlichfield.co. uk

Sun 13 Apr Curborough Sprint Course Open Day From 10.00am at Curborough Sprint Course. It is full speed ahead at this free introduction to the motor sport of speed sprinting. An all you need to know session includes on track instruction with an experienced competitor. Free entry. For details call 01543 264280

Re-enactment Day 11.00am to 4.00pm at Middleton Hall. Come along and meet the Napoleonic Rifleman preparing to leave for active service in the Peninsula. Visit the living history camp and experience the sights, sounds and smells of soldiers cooking, cleaning their weapons and preparing to leave for Portugal. Adult entry £3, Concessions £2.50, Children go free. For more details please contact 01827 283095 Mon 14 Apr Embroiderers Guild 7.30pm at Lichfield Methodist Church Centre. Lichfield Branch Embroiderers Guild, Stephanie Hornblow talks on her "Travels with Beads". Beading has taken Stephanie to many parts of the world, tonight it's Czechoslovakia. Visitors £4, new members welcome. For more information call 01543 415204.

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Mon 14 to Fri 18 April Agatha Christie’s - The Mousetrap 7.30pm (and 2.30pm Thu & Fri) at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Famous around the world for being the longest running show of any kind in the history of British theatre - it's a play to be proud of. To celebrate 60 incredible years on stage, it's now on tour for the first time, with a star cast to give you a once in a life-time opportunity to see this masterpiece. Tue 15 – Sun 27 Apr Spring Exhibition At Emporium Art Gallery. An exhibition showcasing the artwork of local artists and designer makers.

Tue 15 Apr to Tue 6 May Easter Special!!! At Lichfield Museum in St Mary’s Centre. KIDS GO FREE Easter trail. Free entry for under 16s when accompanied by an adult. Visit our amazing exhibition and follow our Easter Egg Trail (small prize upon completion). Also our temporary exhibition ‘The Swingin 60s’ will continue until the end of June. Adults £2.50, concessions £2. For further information call 01543 256611.

Wed 16 Apr – Sat 3 May Easter Special 'Kids Go Free' & Trail At St Mary's Centre. Free entry to under 16s when accompanied by an adult. Visit our amazing museum, follow our Easter Egg Trail. Prizes galore! £2.50 adults, £2 concessions, children free entry.

Wed 16 Apr CPCG Urban Woodland Spring Tidy 10.30am to 3.00pm at Larksrise Woodland. Help us to improve Larksrise Woodland. Volunteers will be carrying on with the management of mature and new planting areas. These will include some selective thinning, brash removal, footpath repairs and a deep litter pick. The volunteer days are open to anyone over 18. To book your free place, call the countryside team on 01543 308183 or email countryside@lichfielddc.gov.uk. Fri 18 – Sun 20 Apr Easter Fun At The Plant Plot Garden Nursery. Open all weekend with an Easter egg hunt on Sunday 20 April. Fri 18 Apr Foodie Fridays! At The Kitchen Shop. See Fri 4 April.

The Lucy Ward Band 8.00pm at the Guildhall. Lucy's amazing stage presence, broad range of material and engaging personality are bound to send you away feeling uplifted.

Sat 19 Apr – Sun 18 May The Bluebell Woods of Yoxall Lodge 10.30am to 6.00pm at Yoxall Lodge. Six stunning walks to suit everyone in some of Staffordshire's finest unspoilt countryside. Adults £4, children (5-16 years) £1, under 5s free.

Sun 20 Apr Easter Sunday Lunch/Dinner 12 noon to 3.00pm (Lunch) and 6.00pm to 9.00pm (Dinner) at The George Hotel. Enjoy a traditional three course carvery lunch or dinner plus coffee with friends and family in our welcoming carvery restaurant on Easter Sunday. £13.75 per person. Prior booking is essential, please call us on 01543 414822.

Easter Sunday Lunch/Dinner 12 noon to 3.00pm (Lunch) and 12 noon to 9.30pm (Dinner) at Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. The Oak Room Restaurant - A four course lunch plus coffee served in our elegant restaurant. Includes an Easter treat! £25 per person, children (12 and under) £16. The Country Kitchen Carvery - A traditional three course carvery lunch plus coffee. Includes a Cadbury Creme Egg for all children! £15.75 per person, children (12 and under) £9.50 To book please call us on 0121 308 3751. Easter Sunday Lunch 12 noon, 12.30pm, 1.00pm,

1.30pm or 2.00pm at National Memorial Arboretum. Treat your family and friends to a delicious three course lunch. Go to www.thenma.org.uk or call 01283 792333 for more information. Cost: £19.95 per person. Advanced booking is essential.

Mon 21 Apr WW1 Trench Tours Tours start at 11.00am, 12 noon and 1.00pm at Staffordshire Regiment Museum. Our uniformed guides will take you on a detailed tour of the Museum's fantastic WW1 trench system, and describe what life was like for soldiers during the Great War. Parents and children will also get the chance to try on uniforms, as well as handle weapons and equipment from the time. Adults £3, children under 16, senior citizens and full time students £2. Go to www.staffordshireregimentmuseum .com for further details. Easter Family Fun Day 11.00am to 4.00pm at Middleton Hall. Fun for all the family. Performances from Flux Dance Theatre. Join in with Traditional English dancing from Middleton Dancers. Children’s entertainer. Lots of children’s crafts and activities. Easter Egg hunt. Follow the trail of Alice in Wonderland characters hidden in the Glade. Easter bonnet parade. Bouncy castle. A visit from the Easter Bunny. Lots of traditional food

stalls on offer, from popcorn, to crepes, to ice cream to hot cross buns. All proceeds go to support the restoration of the hall and grounds to ensure the venue can be enjoyed for generations to come. Adult entry £5, Concessions £3.50, Children £1. For more details please contact 01827 283095

Tue 22 & Wed 23 Apr Peter Pan on Ice 7.30 at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre. A spectacular adaptation of J.M. Barrie's magical story of the boy who never grew up performed by the world renowned Russian Ice Stars. Mysterious lands filled with pirates, Indians and ticking crocodiles will transport visitors to a wonderful world of make-believe as The Russian Ice Stars bring to life the book which has inspired generation after generation.

Wed 23 Apr Blood Thirsty Lichfield At Lichfield City. Be guided by the experts and book onto a Lichfield Green Badge guided tour. Booking is essential, call Lichfield Tourist Information Centre on 01543 256611. This tour is based on the very popular Gruesome and Ghostly tours but is designed especially for children, and is an ideal way of keeping them entertained during the school holidays. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Wanted: Musicians to Blast Off

ichfield Arts is looking for musicians to join Blast Off – a new community band playing an explosive mix of funky riffs, catchy tunes and groovy beats. Whatever your age or ability, and whether you are playing currently or have an instrument gathering dust in your wardrobe, this is your chance to play in what will be the funkiest, grooviest big band in Lichfield. This exciting community project is led by former Netherstowe School student Nick Dewhurst, who graduated recently from Birmingham Conservatoire with a 1st class honours degree. Lichfield Arts Director Dave Simcox commented: “Blast Off will play a groovy, fun and accessible repertoire. Lichfield has a concert band and number of school and classical orchestras, but nothing quite like Blast Off. Lichfield Arts has experience in running outreach projects that create and nurture new groups, its most notable success being Wildfire Folk.” If you like the sound of playing groovy tunes with a splash of New Orleans and a touch of Hollywood topped with British finesse and Mediterranean sun, contact Nick Dewhurst on nick.dewhurst@live.co.uk Blast Off makes its debut at Fuse on Sunday July 13th and rehearsals start after Easter. Lichfield Arts is seeking sponsorship for Blast Off and Fuse. Please contact Dave Simcox at dave.simcox@lichfieldarts.org.uk or on 01543 262223.

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

Trench Life comes to the Staffordshire Regiment Museum this Easter

he Staffordshire Regiment Museum will be holding a WW1 Trench Tour and Discovery Day on Easter Bank Holiday Monday April 21st. The last Trench Tour and Discovery Day was held in February and was a great success, with lots of families exploring the Museum’s remarkable 500ft trench system. On the day, you’ll be greeted by a ‘WW1 Officer’ who’ll take you down into the trenches of France during 1916. The crackle of sniper-fire and the boom of big guns will accompany each visitor as they are guided past First-Aid Stations, into the Officer’s Dug Out and down into the darkness of the tunnel built to undermine the German trenches. Parents and children will also get the chance to try on uniforms, as well as handle weapons and equipment from the time, plus explore the Museum and its fascinating collections of medals (including VC’s) weapons, uniforms, recordings of real WW1 soldiers talking about their experiences and much more. Discovery Day tours start at 11am, 12 noon and 1pm. Adults £3, children and concessions including senior citizens £2. WW1 Discovery Days take place on all bank holidays, every Monday during school half term holidays and every Monday during school summer holidays. The Staffordshire Regiment Museum can be found at, Whittington Barracks, Whittington, Lichfield, WS14 9PY. Tel: 01543 434394. Go to www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com or Facebook: The Staffordshire Regiment Museum for further details. The Museum is holding a series of fascinating WW1 events in 2014 including an Edwardian Fete and Fair on Sunday August 3rd. Contact the Museum for further details. Images copyright Terry Fidgeon.

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£5 per person includes refreshments.

World Book Night Late Opening 4.30pm to 7.30pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Browse the bookshop and enjoy the museum after hours in this special opening with entertainment. Free entry, donations welcome. St George's Court 12 noon at the Guildhall. Ancient manorial court now held in a lighthearted manner.

Thu 24 Apr Lichfield Civic Society 7.45pm at St Mary’s Centre. A talk entitled ‘Meterological Extreme Events and their Impacts’ by Dr Gregor Leckebusch. All are welcome, members free, non members £3 at door.

British Wild Flowers 7.30pm at St Michael’s Church Hall. A talk by Gwen Johnson. Lichfield City Gardening Guild, a group for keen gardeners, meets the last Thursday of every month. There is a good variety of speakers, outings once or twice a year and social events. There is a Spring show and Annual show competitions. In addition there is a 'flower of the month' competition and other relevant competitions relating to

themes each month.

Fri 25 Apr Foodie Fridays! At The Kitchen Shop. See Fri 4 April.

Anzac Day Service of Remembrance 11.30am to 1.00pm at The Gallipoli Memorial in the National Memorial Arboretum. For more information contact Nadir Imamoglu Tel:01922 406 604, Mob: 07552 968 886 or email:imamoglu@live.co.uk

Sat 26 Apr – Sun 15 Jun Holy Writ Exhibition At Lichfield Cathedral. Displaying work by contemporary calligraphers and lettering artists including sculpture, woodcarving, digital animation and textiles. Free entry donations appreciated.

Sat 26 Apr Little Howard and the Magic Pencil of Life and Death 2.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre (Studio). With interactive stand-up, 3D animation and lots of songs. Suitable for 6 years and upwards. Little Howard has discovered the pencil that drew him. But, on the other end of this magical pencil of life is the eraser of death. And, as if that wasn't

enough, Big Howard has had a reallife baby who is getting a little too much attention! Can Little Howard escape his supernatural nemesis? Who knows ... but there will be danger, drama and a lot of laughs on the way.

Saturday 26 Apr 2014 Lichfield Crown Green Bowling Club 10.30am to 3.00pm at Beacon Park. You are invited to a Fun Day in Beacon Park (Discovery Hub bowling green). Anyone interested in playing bowls for fun or in a league would be welcome to come along and try their hand. They have members from 15 to 80 years of age; it’s a game for all ages. Complete beginners would be given some tuition, even to join in on the day, or at a later date. All you would need to wear is casual clothing and flat soled shoes or bring a pair of trainers. They would also welcome experienced bowlers, the club plays in leagues on Tuesday and Thursday nights and on a Thursday afternoon. Food and refreshments would be available to visitors. They would appreciate a call if you would like to bowl or just to have a chat, so that the numbers can be organised. Contacts: Bob Tweddle 01543 251099, Peter Murray 01543 252470 or mobile 07875 436323.

Easter Adventures and World Book Night at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum

or those looking for entertainment over the Easter holiday, young visitors can join ‘Sam’s Easter Adventure’ from April 12th – 27th. A trail pack and competitions will be available every day between 10.30am – 4.30pm, with free entry for all and just £1 to join the trail. For young booklovers, the popular fortnightly ‘Bookworms United!’ club for 7-11 year olds will be starting up again on April 19th, at just £4 per session including all books and activities. Then on Tuesday April 15th, resident artist Carole Collier will be leading her popular adult Art Workshop session from 6.30pm, just £10 to join including all materials and refreshments. Booklovers will be delighted by a big Spring Sale in the bookshop, and on Wednesday April 23rd the Museum will be celebrating World Book Night with a free-entry late evening opening until 7.30pm. Enjoy and explore the written work with fun word games, listen to inspiring and entertaining readings and meet local authors for tips and inspiration, or just explore the Museum at night with a glass of wine. As part of World Book Night, the Museum will be giving away specially selected titles throughout the evening, so be sure to drop-in and grab your free copy to be part of this nationwide event. For more details on any event or to make a booking for the Art Workshop or Bookworms club call 01543 264 972, visit www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk, email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk or pop into the Museum on the corner of the Market Square.

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys 8.00pm at the Guildhall. More than just the world’s greatest swingband – they are an institution!

Sun 27 Apr Middleton Hall Food & Craft Market 10.00am to 4.00pm at Middleton Hall. Celebrating its first year of trading and continuing to grow supporting local businesses, this event has an abundance of stalls showcasing the very best of local handcrafted items and locally produced food. You’ll find artisan crafted accessories and vintage items and delicious food to enjoy on site or take home. As it's Mother’s Day there will be lots of opportunities to treat Mum! All proceeds go to support the restoration of the hall and grounds to ensure the venue can be enjoyed for generations to come. £2 donation to park a car. For more details please contact 01827 283095. Tue 29 Apr Lichfield Wildlife Group 7.45pm at St Mary’s Centre. Lichfield Wildlife Group invite you to join them for a talk on bumblebees given by Ron Rock, a volunteer from Staffordshire Wildlife Trust. Ron is an expert on Bumblebees and he will be talking about their lifestyle, habitats and the various varieties of bumblebee to be found in Staffordshire. Admission is Adults £3.00 and Children Free. Refreshments are available during the interval and there will be a raffle. Proceeds are for Staffordshire Wildlife Trust. The Scarlet Pimpernel 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Lichfield Operatic Society. Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution in 1794. Sir Percy Blakeney and his league of gentlemen deliberately play the fop in order to hide their true activity of saving the would-be victims from the guillotine. However, Chauvelin, the French Government’s devotee, is out to stop all who try to save these victims, especially the

mysterious hero. The show is romantic, daring and funny and the music is amazing.

Wed 30 Apr Spring & Summer Flower Arranging 10.30am to 3.00pm at The George Hotel. During these fun and informal flower days, Anne Brown of Tiaras & Flowers will inspire you with some stunning yet simple ideas for decorating your home this spring and summer. £23 per person. Includes coffee on arrival at 10.30am and a three course carvery lunch plus coffee. After lunch there’s a raffle, the proceeds of which will be donated to St Giles Hospice. Please call on 01543 414822 to reserve your tickets. Fri 2 May Music in the Air 7.00pm at Lea Hall Social Club. In aid of the Alzheimer's Society this concert will be performed by The Stafford Grammar School Concert Band and The Rugeley Academies Vocal Ensemble. Pay on the door £3.00. All welcome. For more information contact 01889 578680. Contact details for listed venues:

Arthur Price Factory Shop Britannia Way, Lichfield WS14 9UY. Tel: 01543 267324 Beacon Park - Swan Rd, Lichfield WS13 6QZ Crown Inn - Post Office Rd, Alrewas, DE13 7BS Tel: 01283 791217 Curborough Sprint Course – Netherstowe Lane, Off Wood End Lane, Lichfield Near WS13 8EJ. Tel: 01543 264280 Drayton Manor Theme Park - Near Tamworth B78 3SA. Tel: 0844 472 1960 Elford Village Hall - Church Rd, Elford B79 9DA Emporium Art Gallery - 32-34 Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel: 01543 256624 Erasmus Darwin House - Beacon St, Lichfield WS13 7AD. Tel: 01543 306260 The George Hotel - Bird St,

Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel: 01543 414822 The Guildhall – Bore St, Lichfield WS13 6LU. The Kitchen Shop - 5 Market St, Lichfield WS13 6JX. Tel: 01543 268602 Larksrise Woodland - Chase Terrace, Burntwood WS71FP. Tel: 01543 308183 Lea Hall Welfare Centre & Social Club - Sandy Lane, Rugeley WS15 2LB. Tel: 01889 583175 Lichfield Cathedral - The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LD. Tel: 01543 306100 Lichfield Garrick Theatre - Castle Dyke, Lichfield WS13 6HR. Tel: 01543 412121 Lichfield Methodist Church – Tamworth St, Lichfield WS13 6JJ. Tel: 01543 268053 Lichfield Tourist Information Centre - St Mary's Heritage Centre, Market Square – Lichfield WS13 6LG Tel: 01543 412112 Middleton Hall – Middleton, Tamworth B78 2AE. Tel: 01827 283095 Moor Hall Hotel & Spa - Moor Hall Drive, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield B75 6LN. Tel: 0121 3083751 National Memorial Arboretum Croxall Rd, Alrewas, Burton-onTrent DE13 7AR. Tel: 01283 792333 Plant Pot Garden Nursery Western Bypass (A51), Lichfield WS13 8JA Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum - Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 264972 Staffordshire Regiment Museum – Whittington Barracks, Lichfield, WS14 9PY. Tel: 01543 434394 St Mary’s in the Market Square Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 256611 St Michael's Church Hall - St. Michael’s Rd, Lichfield WS13 6SN West Bromwich Town Hall - First Floor, West Bromwich Town Hall, Lodge Rd, West Bromwich B70 8DY. Tel: 0121 569 2614 Yoxall Lodge - Scotch Hill, Newchurch, Burton on Trent DE13 8RL. Tel:01283 575237

Burntwood Lions a roaring success

An open letter from Ken Grant of the Burntwood Lions

e are ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Some of the regular events we do throughout the year include: Bedding Plant Sale (this event will take place very soon. Keep an eye out for our new brochure), Soft Toy Raffles, Christmas Craft Fair, Santa Special, Tin Collection/Food Parcel Distribution, Quizzes and Social Events. We are still a small club and are actively seeking new friends of Lions as well as new members. If you would like to know more about the things Burntwood Lions do, please come to one of our meetings, meet us, and see how we work together to make a difference to people’s lives. If interested please contact: Lion Cindy (our Treasurer) on 01543 671945 or Lion Jayne on 01543 677730. I would like to thank everyone who has helped us over the past few years to achieve all the things we have, and with your help again we can achieve even more this year. Thank you. Ken Grant

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