Lichfield Gazette Aug 2013

THE MAGAZINE REFLECTING LIFE IN THE CITY OF LICHFIELD

August 2013 ISSUE 52

Saturday 31st August Sunday 1st September

See details on page 49

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

COLLIS Est. 1957

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August 2013 Lichfield

G azette contents

6 10 14 19 40 42 43 47 54

Netherstowe House Competition Hammerwich Hall Inspiration for the Regal Cinema?

New novel-win a signed copy Heritage Gazette Woman Strawberry Skin Competition What’s On/Dining Out Small Ads

Editor’s Notes If only Dr Johnson had air conditioning As true today as in 1758, Dr Johnson records: “When two Englishmen meet, their first talk is of the weather; they are in haste to tell each other, what each must already know, that it is hot or cold, bright or cloudy, windy or calm.”

It was a long, long gloomy winter this year, and like most years, when we are in the grip of an icy cold spell I try to remember and hold on to the thought of what summer was like. And do you know I find it hard to imagine, is that strange?

As I write this month’s notes I am sitting in shorts and t-shirt in near 30°c heat with the windows open, doors open, garage door open, blinds pulled and wishing it was winter once more. You know where you are with winter. Long dark dank days of nothingness, snuggled up with the central heating going ten to the dozen, jumpers and hot drinks. But I just don’t know what to do with myself on these hot days and balmy nights.

Now I had discussed the possibility of air conditioning, but let’s say we have 20°c days for 45 days every year, that would mean that 320 days of the year it would be redundant. To buy and install a meagre unit would cost about £1300. So in the first year, not including the cost of electricity, it would cost me £28 per day!

Samuel Johnson never had electricity, and the windows of those 18th century houses were mighty small and the ceilings of the small rooms were low, but when you see paintings and drawings of the great lexicographer his mode of dress was thick clothing, no doubt waistcoats and breeches made of wool and coarse cotton. I have yet to see a picture of him in flip-flops, glugging a bottle of ice- cold water while Boswell fans him with a wet towel!

Yours truly, Paul Oakley. Editor

Lichfield Food Festival see page 42 for details

Win lunch for two at Netherstowe House page 6

contributors • • • • • •

Caz Jones Laura Bowcutt PG Mitchell Ann Mayo Phil Preece Patrick Cornerford

• • • • •

Joss Musg rove Knibb Robert Yardley Dan Mitchell Kate Gomez John Crowe

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.

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.

contact the Gazette see page 54 Page 4 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Free Entry to Erasmus Darwin House

I

n the run up to the Museum's 15th Anniversary, Erasmus Darwin House is launching 14 weeks of Free Entry. You are invited to visit this beautiful Georgian town-house that was once home to the famous poet, inventor, scientist (and grandfather of Charles Darwin) Dr Erasmus Darwin, free of charge and as often as you like.

At the house you can learn about the life and times of Erasmus, the Grandfather of evolution, through interactive displays, free audio guides, exclusive documentary and museum of inventions. Not only can you discover the genius of Darwin, particularly his contribution to science and philosophy, as you wander around the beautifully restored property, but you can also learn all about 18th century botany in the adjoining Herb Garden. Do look out for the signs that formally divide the courtyard into Mrs. Darwin’s culinary herb garden and Dr Darwin’s medicinal herb garden.

There are plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained as well, including lots of interactive exhibits, Georgian games and crafts. Fancy yourself as a Georgian nobleman or lady? There are numerous costumes to try on for both kids and adults. Or why not challenge yourself to complete the ‘Erasmouse’ trail by finding all the mice hiding around the house?

A number of ticketed tours and workshops suitable for all ages will also be running throughout

the summer months so keep an eye on the website's Events Page for upcoming dates for your diary.

The Free Entry period runs from 29th July to 3rd November 2013 and Erasmus Darwin House is open every day excluding Mondays from 11:00-17:00.

For more information on what the museum has to offer over the Free Entry period please visit www.erasmusdarin.org or call

Darwin house

Mayor and Mayoress visit Footsteps

O

n Saturday 6th July Footsteps nursery were delighted to welcome The Mayor and Mayoress of Lichfield, Cllr Robert and Mrs Eileen Awty, to the nursery's open day.

The weather was glorious and the Mayor expressed that he was "very impressed" with the facilities available. He also met parents whose children were new to the nursery and spent time talking to the children.

After taking some refreshment, the VIP party met the nursery's pet rabbit "Lucy". The day was pronounced a great success by all who attended.

£10 EYE TEST

Valid for one test booked within 3 months.

Present voucher at time of test. One per person, at Specsavers Lichfield only. Cannot be exchanged for cash or used with other offers.

FREE EYE TEST FOR OVER 60’S Code LG/08/13

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GazetteNews

Sparkling new exhibition

Staffordshire Hoard at Lichfield Cathedral L

ichfield Cathedral’s Chapter House is now home to a sparkling display of new items from the Staffordshire Hoard and, thanks to funding from the Arts Council England, they are now shown alongside new interactive exhibits, replicas, information panels and a craft table.

As part of the Staffordshire Play Anglo Saxon Taefl Hoard Mercian Trail, Lichfield Cathedral has benefited from a recent grant of £50,000 awarded to the trail by the Arts Council England. The aim of the funding is to boost the trail by making it even easier for more people to find out about the thrilling story of the Staffordshire Hoard. As well as enhancing the cathedral display, the funding has also helped to boost the display at Tamworth Castle, as well as create resources that can be used at venues across the region and beyond.

The display at Lichfield Cathedral is open daily between 10am and 4pm, Monday – Saturday and 12 noon – 3pm on Sundays. The exhibition is free to enter, although donations are very welcome. Along with items from the Staffordshire Hoard, it also features the exquisite Anglo-Saxon treasures, the St Chad Gospels which are older than the Book of Kells, and the Lichfield Angel, believed to be part of the Shrine to St Chad.

The Staffordshire Hoard exhibition is manned entirely by volunteers and the Cathedral is always keen to hear from people who can spare an hour or two each week, to help this exhibition remain open to the public. To help recruit volunteers, the Cathedral is working with Lichfield and District Community & Voluntary Sector Support (LDCVS).

Call 01543 303030 or email info@ldcvs.org.uk

WIN

LUNCH

FOR TWO PEOPLE AT NETHERSTOWE HOUSE

FIND MINSTER THE CAT! Win a Lunch for Two (MonThurs) and enjoy the Netherstowe House experience.

A small, family owned and run boutique hotel and restaurant that strives to be the best, with a friendly, personal touch. The family and team are very proud to have been voted 'Restaurant of the Year' at this years Taste of Staffordshire Good Food Awards. Head Chef and his Kitchen Brigade have created a new Express Lunch menu for you to enjoy Monday to Saturday. The emphasis is on creating flavoursome, classic dishes with a modern twist, freshly produced on site using the finest seasonal ingredients.

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

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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 21st August 2013 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).

The Editor will draw the winning entry and announce it in the next edition of Lichfield Gazette.

Congratulations to Ms K Figiel of Siddons Close, Lichfield who spotted Minster on Page 36 of the July magazine.

Good luck!!

Page 7

LG AUG2013

GazetteNews

Cars in the Park joy at brilliant sunshine W

ell done to the Rotary Club St Chads and all sponsors of the 16th annual Cars in the Park in Beacon Park, Lichfield (6/7July).

There seems to be so much drive to the whole affair when the sun shines like it did over this two-day event. Owners want to show their cars, and enthusiasts want to see them too knowing it isn’t cold and drizzly like it was the previous weekend. Surely someone will tell me it was a record turn-out with much money raised for all involved and particularly Midland Air Ambulance?

MG TF c.1953

Images by Paul Oakley

Mini Owner Club

Jeanette

Tamara Cornish demonstrates the bubbles to Becky

1950s Cadillac with a twist

Competition Winners Debenhams Swimwear Competition.

Congratulation to Lucy Walker of Trafalgar Way, Lichfield who wins £75 worth of beach and swim wear.

Touch of Class Competition.

Congratulations to Stacey John of Edwards Farm Road, Fradley who wins a £25 voucher to spend in this lovely store.

Tudor Row Spot The Difference Competition Another fantastic response to this competition!

Congratulations to Ms G Wilkinson of Blackberry Avenue, Lichfield who wins £50 to spend at any of the shops featured in the Tudor Row Competition in the July magazine.

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• Deal of the month? - Bystander noted Morrison's have some lovely Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) in ceramic pots at £5 each or two for £10. Nice of them to work that out for us ! :) • Between 7pm – 11pm on Friday July 19th revellers may have been surprised to see members of the Police and firefighting community out and about in the City centre, handing out wristbands.

These wristbands entitled the wearers to a reduced price or free soft drink in The Acorn, The Gatehouse, The George IV, Malt, The Crown, The Duke of York and the Pig & Truffle public houses.

The wristbands are part of the ‘I’ll be Des’ scheme that encourages the use of a ‘designated driver’ on a night out.

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GazetteFeature

Hammerwich Hall - a potted history H

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

Several years ago a project for Bupa called ‘Living History’ was compiled with the support of residents, resident’s families, staff, village residents and friends.

This is what was discovered about Hammerwich Village and the building which was to become Hammerwich Hall.

An estate centring on HAMMERWICH HOUSE originated in the estate in Hammerwich built up by Simon Biddulph of Lichfield from 1565. By 1574 it included four messuages (A dwelling house with outbuildings and land assigned to its use) held of Farewell Manor. Simon was succeeded in 1580 by his son Simon, who was followed in 1632 by his son, Michael Biddulph of Elmhurst.

In 1636 Michael granted a lease of a house and land at Hammerwich. The house was in decay, and the lessees were to build a new house of two bays, with three bays of other buildings, using the timber from the existing house.

In 1655 Michael and his son Michael conveyed the reversion of the Hammerwich estate, including three messuages, after the elder Michael's death to a younger son Theophilus. That death took place in 1658.

Theophilus, created a baronet in 1664, was succeeded in 1683 by his son Michael. Sir Michael died in 1718, leaving a farm in Hammerwich and Edial to his wife Elizabeth.

Elizabeth sold the farm to the tenant, Samuel Moor, in 1719, although the conveyance was not completed until 1725. By his will dated 1723 Samuel left the farm to his son Samuel, whose widow Elizabeth held it in 1749. That year, on the marriage of her daughter Elizabeth to Henry Webb of Hammerwich, she settled the reversion on the younger

Leila with Nikki

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Elizabeth.

Between 1781 and 1787 Henry rebuilt the house, and in 1799 he sold it to his son-in-law Thomas Middleton of Hammerwich. By 1749 Henry had inherited from his uncle Henry Webb, a Tamworth innkeeper, another house in Hammerwich, which became his home.

He subsequently sold it to Stephen Riley, whose son John Riley of Rugeley (d. 1803) left it in trust to be sold. It too was bought by Thomas Middleton in 1805; In 1824 Middleton conveyed several houses in Hammerwich to his son William. All that property was let, and he and his son were probably living in a farmhouse on the site of the later Hammerwich House. Thomas died in 1839, and in 1843 William owned and occupied the farm; by 1861 he was living in retirement at the farm, which was run by his son William. The elder William died in 1862. His son was living at Torquay, Devon by 1865 when he settled his Hammerwich estate in trust to be sold.

By 1868 the house, then known as Hammerwich House, was the home of Arthur Hills, a manufacturing chemist with a works nearby in Ogley Hay. He was still living there in 1876 and it was about this time that the house was rebuilt.

It was offered for sale in 187/78 then became the home of Job Evans, a manufacturer of galvanized iron from Wolverhampton, who put it up for sale in 1895 on leaving the district.

It was the home of John Leckie until the late 1890s when it was sold to Benjamin Stretton (d. by 1912) a brewer from Burton on Trent, whose wife Frances continued to live there after he died. Mr & Mrs Stretton’s only son died during the First World War. From 1941 it was used as an annexe by the Birmingham and Midland Hospital for Women at Sparkhill, Birmingham.

Mrs Stretton helped there until she died in 1944 and in 1945 Hammerwich House was bought by Walsall Borough Council and converted into a girls' remand home, opening in 1946. It later became a children's home. The children were referred to as ‘Bluecoats’ by the locals, because of their blazers. These children were from troubled lives.

In 1984 the council sold the house, which was reopened in 1985 as a private Residential Home for the elderly. In 1988 a nursing unit was added, the house having by then been renamed Hammerwich Hall Nursing Home which now belongs to BUPA. The Parish of Hammerwich The civil parish of Hammerwich was formerly a township in the south-west corner of the parish of St. Michael, Lichfield. It lay beside Watling Street, which formed the whole of its southern boundary. Formerly 1,779 acres its area was increased to 2,535 acres in 1934 by the addition of the civil parish of Ogley Hay Rural south of Watling Street. In 1966 the north-west corner of Hammerwich was transferred to the urban district of Aldridge-Brownhills and in 1980 there were further boundary adjustments with Burntwood, Wall, and Shenstone.

Hammerwich lay within that portion of Cannock forest which became Cannock Chase in the 13th century. Until the

Hammerwich Hall later 19th century, settlement was concentrated in the eastern part of the township, with the western part remaining heathland. The Old English name Hammerwich means a place (wic) by a hill (hamor). There may have been two centres of population in the late 11th century, represented by the 'two Hammerwich' noted in the Domesday Book of 1086. Eventually there were three centres, Overton mentioned in the late 13th century, Netherton in 1319 and Middleton in 1381. The names Nether Town and Middle Town were still used in 1871, while Overton remains in use. There was still a green at each in the early 19th century. (fn. 20) Hammerwich Hall in 2013 One of the current residents Mrs Lillian ‘Leila’ Balance is now aged 90. Whilst it was a children’s home Leila was the House Mother at Hammerwich Hall.

She has lived with us now since February 2011 and when she arrived, she took staff on a tour of the building, giving us an insight into the ‘old layout’ when she lived here and what life was like back then.

Some of Leila’s ‘charges’ from those days visit her regularly. Leila’s daughter now lives in Canada, but comes back often to spend time with Leila and her son still lives locally.

The house was also used as a hospital for injured soldiers during the war and visitors have often stated that they have seen ‘apparitions’ whilst at the home.

Lots of interesting characters have lived with us, with many thought provoking histories and with all of our residents having stories of interest to tell and so this is a ‘potted history’ only.

(The ‘Living History’ source was www.britishhistory.ac.uk and our thanks to Shirley Gibbs (Home Manager) and Karen Burrows (Activities Organiser) currently working at Hammerwich Hall who have supplied the current information.)

GazetteFeature

Hammerwich Hall 24 hour professional support from Bupa I

f you are planning ahead for your retirement years or have an elderly relative who would benefit from a home with facilities where help and companionship is always on hand, then Hammerwich Hall provides a warm, friendly atmosphere where residents can continue their daily lives with privacy and dignity.

As you’d expect from a Bupa Care Home, Hammerwich Hall has an experienced home manager and registered nurses and care assistants who are all highly trained to provide 24-hour professional support to the people in their care. In addition to their award winning ‘Personal Best’ customer service programme, Bupa Care Services is also one of the largest organisations to be awarded ‘Investor in People’ Gold status which reflects their commitment to

staff training development.

and

The important thing with Hammerwich Hall, the really important thing, is that each resident has their own personal care plan which covers far more than the dispensing of medicines and pills.

I n d i v i d u a l preferences and tastes are important to the staff and help them to meet emotional and social as well as physical needs. Each resident and their family are encouraged to create a ‘Map of Life’ which enables to staff to better understand those important needs.

Hammerwich Hall is truly a home from home for residents who are encouraged to bring their own ornaments, pictures and small pieces of furniture to make their surroundings look and feel more familiar. Each room has a 24 hour nurse call system and smoke detector. And how many care homes allow their residents to bring small pets if it’s pre-arranged with the manager?

This Bupa Care Home has beautiful and extensive landscaped grounds with outdoor seating so that residents can sit and relax with a good book, the newspaper or just enjoy the gardens.

Bupa and the staff at Hammerwich Hall also understand that some residents may want to live an independent life and they encourage those who do, by striking a balance to provide care and support when it’s most needed.

There are opportunities for residents to mix and socialise if they wish, either in one of the three comfortably furnished lounges or sun lounge, or they can take part in both indoor and outdoor activities. Activities co-ordinators plan stimulating events for residents of all abilities who wish to participate and they are designed to encourage healthy minds and bodies and give some structure to a resident’s day. There are also visits from local entertainers as well as a weekly visit by a hairdresser and a library service attends every few months. Residents also enjoy days out to places such as the Severn Valley Railway, The War Memorial at Alrewas and local garden centres to name a few.

Hammerwich Hall has experienced chefs who provide nutritionally balanced dishes for residents using only the freshest produce, catering for all tastes and diets. The menus provide breakfast, lunch and an evening meal with biscuits and mid-morning tea or coffee, and homemade cake with tea or coffee in the afternoon. Meals can be taken in the dining room or garden (weather permitting) or in the residents own room.

To find out more about Bupa Care Homes go to www.bupacarehomes.co.uk If you’d like to know more about Hammerwich Hall call 01543 675 529.

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GazetteNews

Best Fuse Ever!

Fabulous live music

T

he 13th Lichfield Fuse Festival turned out to be as lucky for the organisers as it was for the festival goers, as the weather was perfectly behaved all weekend as it should be in mid-

July.

The festival felt well ordered, well run, safe, secure and tidy, with no anti-social behaviour (that was evident). Although alcohol was readily available there were no signs of anything other than a mix of some 30,000 local people, of all ages, having a great time.

The three day FREE event was compartmentalised into five main areas: The Main Stage covered folk, jazz and even reggae, the Feathers Stage featured talented local rock bands; the Fuse Café which featured dance, performing arts and even a drum workshop; The Craft Tent that was awash with children sticking, stencilling and creating all manner of things; and then there was the Fuse Market with crafts, clothing and a really good choice of food.

Well done to the organisers, performers and most of all the many volunteers.

Wildfire Folk

Twysted Rootz Community Theatre Group

T NEW ADDRESS FOR FAVOURITE FLORIST

F

lower Design By Kate are delighted to announce that they have relocated into bigger and more accessible premises in the centre of Lichfield. They have made a short move within Bolt Court and now front the main car park making it ideal for Customers picking up orders.

The business is run by Kate and Lil who specialise in retail, corporate and their ever expanding and bespoke wedding and funeral services.

Lil Semple, Director, comments: "We are thrilled to have new and exciting premises which includes a private consultation room. Please do take the time to visit our new website which showcases our full range of services www.flowerdesignbykate.co.uk."

Kate Miller added: "We would like to thank all of our existing customers for their support over the years and we really look forward to welcoming you at our new premises."

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK. 5 BOLT COURT, MARKET STREE, LICHFIELD. 01543 255311 WWW.flowerdesignbykate.co.uk hello@flowerdesignbykate.co.uk Page 12 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Sunshine and Sculpture

he Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum held a popular event ‘Johnson in the Round’ on Saturday 6th July, where over 200 visitors found out about the work and legacy of local sculptor Denis Parsons and met talented carver Allen Necchi.

Visitors enjoyed a display of sculpture by Denis Parsons with examples across a career lasting over 50 years, including many familiar local pieces such as the paving in Erasmus Darwin’s herb garden and figures on the Cathedral exterior. The art of sculpture was bought to life by Allen Necchi, local craftsman in wood and stone who worked under the guidance of Denis before becoming a freelance tutor and artist. Visitors were fascinated to see the process of modelling, casting and carving in Allen’s live demonstrations and displays.

Pamela Marshall, long-term partner to Denis Parsons, kindly allowed the sculptures, images and film to be displayed and was on-hand at the Museum all day to talk to visitors about the creative process, and to raise awareness of a Foundation established in Denis’s honour to assist local apprentices in their craft The exhibition continues until September 29th and is open daily, free of charge, from 10.30am to 4.30pm. For more details visit the Museum website at www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk, call 01543 264972 or pop into the Bookshop reception on the corner of the Market Square.

Sculptor Allen Necchi, Mayor of Lichfield Cllr. Bob Awty and Mrs Eileen Awty, Pam Marshall and Samuel Johnson Museum Curator Joanne Butler. Photos by Robert Yardley.

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The Real Cinema today.

GazetteNews

Can Paris offer new hope for an old cinema in Lichfield?

By Patrick Cornerford

Here, the Revered Patrick Cornerford gives a fascinating insight into the restoration of a cinema very like our own, but with a Gallic twist.

R

ecently, The Economist published a news story about the Louxor Palais du Cinema, north-west of the Gare du Nord in Paris, which was once one of the jewels of Egyptian-inspired Art Deco architecture. It opened in 1921, boasting pillars, papyrus motifs and pharaohs’ heads – and with an auditorium that could seat almost 1,200 people.

The Economist recalls that this was the heyday of silent movies of the sort that ‘The Artist’ has brought back to life.

However, after World War II, the cinema fell on hard times, and the Louxor screened its last movie in 1983 before Pathé sold the building to a retail firm that had plans for a store. However, the plans never saw the light of day because the Louxor’s exotic façade had been listed for preservation. From 1987 the building stood empty.

Two pressure groups were formed in 2001 to regenerate the Louxor and to raise the tone of the neighbourhood. Paris City Hall bought the site, work began on restoring the Louxor to its original glory, and three years and 25 million euros later, the Louxor re-opened on 18th April with Grandmaster, a Chinese martial-arts movie, as its first showing.

‘Friends of the Regal’ takes off More than 500 people signed up to be ‘Friends of the Regal’ during the Fuse Festival (July 1214). There is an overwhelming groundswell of support by residents in the district for an Arts Centre combined with a scaled down arts cinema with maybe a conference centre, art gallery and retail possibilities. Walsall Metropolitan Council has just approved plans for two new multi-screen cinemas, making a total of four for the town (same number as in 1970). Lichfield has 40% of the population of Walsall and hasn't had a cinema for 38 years.

Michael Fabricant, MP for Lichfield showed his support too: "I acknowledge Lichfield's campaign to revive the cinema and although a six screen cinema is planned for the Friarsgate development, if it ever goes ahead, the Regal would make a fantastic venue for an arts centre and cinema. Things have never been quite the same for Lichfield Arts since the old post office was pulled down that used to be where Ego Restaurant is now. While I would doubt that any council money could be made available for the Regal project, I am keen to explore lottery and charity funding to help this project along when it moves to an advanced stage."

For more information contact: www.regallichfield.org Page 14 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

This news must surely give hope and succour to the people in Lichfield who are campaigning to save the Regal Cinema at 23-27 Tamworth Street.

The Regal Cinema opened on 18th July 1932 with Maisie Gay in The Old Man and Shirley Dale in The Begger Student. It was designed by the Birmingham-based architect Harold Seymour Scott, who was one of the directors of the independent operating company.

Like the Louxor in Paris, the external and internal styles of the Regal were described as a ‘delicate’ Egyptian, Art Deco style. There was seating in the auditorium for 1,300 people, with 1,000 people in the stalls and another 300 in the circle. The proscenium was 40 ft wide, and the cinema also had its own café.

By November 1932, the cinema had been leased to the County Cinemas chain. It was taken over briefly by the Oscar Deutsch chain of Odeon Theatres Ltd in September 1939, but it was back in the hands of the original independent owners by around 1941.

In August 1943, it was taken over by the Associated British Cinemas (ABC) chain, which operated the Regal Cinema until July 1969. The Star Cinemas chain then took over. Part-time bingo was introduced on several nights a week, and on 10th July 1974, the Regal Cinema screened its final film; Bruce Lee in The Big Boss. The Regal then became the Star Bingo Club.

The building was sold in the late 1970s, and became a KwikSave supermarket, with a snooker club in the former café area.

By 2008, the building was ‘For Sale’ or ‘To Let’ for leisure use.

Proposals to demolish the auditorium and to build a hotel on the site, retaining the Regal Cinema’s facade as the entrance, were put forward in February 2010. Planning consent was granted for the partial demolition and new build of the premises to create a bar and restaurant and a 104-bedroom hotel, with associated facilities.

However, in the three years since then, no work has been carried out on the proposed hotel.

Last July, Anna Coley started a Facebook page, ‘Restore the Regal Cinema, Lichfield!’ Around the same time, Adam Bradley organised a petition for the restoration of the Regal Cinema: “To its former glory”. By the time the petition closed, it had been signed by more than 80 people.

Lichfield District Council points out that ‘planning permission has been granted for a new cinema as part of the new Friarsgate Scheme, which should satisfy the demand for a cinema in the local area. However, the argument is not simply about the need for a cinema for Lichfield and the surrounding catchment area. It is about the conservation of a unique and beautiful building that is part of Lichfield’s architectural heritage.

If this was a Tudor-era cinema in Bore Street, a Georgianera cinema in Bird Street, or a Victorian-era cinema in Beacon

Street, the case for its preservation would be quite clear. Is Art Deco architecture less valued because it only dates from the 1930s?

The blogger, Brownhills Bob points out that The Regal is the only Art Deco building left standing in Lichfield since the Robin Hood on the corner of Saint John Street and Frog Lane was demolished. It was also built in the 1930s, replacing an earlier pub dating back to the 1790s. In his book on The Old Pubs of Lichfield (2001/2007), John Shaw recalls the name changes it went through, including City Gate, City Frog and Funky Frog, before being demolished in October 2000 to make way for new apartments on the site. Part of the Art Deco Burton building at 26 Market Street dates from about 1938, when the foundation stones were laid, but the ground floor has since been replaced with later shop-fronts.

Lichfield Film is a club showing movies twice a month, and is the brainchild of Lucy Beth, who told the Lichfield People website: “The lack of a cinema in Lichfield is something which is constantly discussed … Lichfield Film aims to bring a relaxed cinematic experience to the City.”

Although the former Civic Hall frequently shows films, and movies are occasionally billed as part of the Lichfield Festival, the City has been without a permanent cinema since the Regal closed.

The calls for restoring the Regal have received an overwhelming response in recent months in letters to the Lichfield Gazette.

Planning permission for the new hotel runs out in September. That means work on the plans could still proceed, and that the company has until September to start turning the Regal into a hotel.

What happens if work does not begin by September? The planning permission runs out, and hopefully an order will be made for the preservation and restoration not only of the exterior but for restoring the interior too, and for the use of the building once again as a cinema and perhaps as a community arts centre too?

To see the petition go to: http://petitions.lichfielddc.gov.uk/CinemaRebirth/ The Facebook campaign to save the Regal Cinema is at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/372682976131548/ Patrick’s career has included the positions of: Lecturer in Anglicanism and Liturgy in the Church of Ireland Theological Institute, Adjunct Assistant Professor in the University of Dublin (Trinity College Dublin) and Canon of Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. For many years he worked as a journalist with the Lichfield Mercury, the Wexford People and The Irish Times, where he was Foreign Desk Editor until 2002.

Patrick’s blog can be found at revpatrickcomerford.blogspot.co.uk

Regal application

Wow! That really IS different!

Love Lane specialise in Glass Splashbacks, Shower Screens, Stair Balustrades and many other glass applications.

L

ove Lane Interiors is a family business situated in the middle of the Staffordshire and West Midlands border. Keeping overheads to a minimum they choose not to have a showroom, however, their glass is displayed in Kitchen and Bathroom showrooms throughout the area.

Traditionally, Love Lane had its roots in the kitchen and bathroom industry and appreciated that contemporary glass surfaces would be a winner. Over a period of time they have painstakingly developed a product that will give your home a wow factor that will be the envy of all your friends and family. The word on the street says ‘grout is out’ and glass surfaces are now the next big trend for your kitchen and bathroom. Imagine no tiles on the wall, instead a glass surface in any colour from the Dulux, RAL British standard ranges. Which means many hundreds of colours to choose from.

Only the best quality German fittings are used on shower enclosures and bespoke surfaces can be any shape or size. You can give your stairs a new and contemporary feel by replacing the existing spindles or rails with glass – looks superb and it complies with all regulations and standards for safety. Other applications include food preparation areas, particularly good in reception areas or trendy salons. Maintenance couldn’t be easier with a cloth and anti-bacterial spray.

Louise from Love Lane told us: “We have customers who welcome you into their homes as they are so pleased with their Love Lane Glass that they want to show it off. We are a professional, friendly team and offer a free consultation to help customers with their designs, and also advise on colour. Depending on your circumstances we can 'supply only', but most of our many customers take advantage of our Templating & Fitting Service so as to ensure the glass fits the design perfectly.”

To obtain a quick quotation you can either call Louise or just send your dimensions and other details, such as how many socket cut outs or special shaping for extractors and the colour you would like in the enquiry form on Love Lane website contact page (see ad). In the meantime please feel free to take a look at the gallery to see examples of Love Lane’s work.

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GazetteNews

Lichfield in Bloom 2013

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ell done to all involved in Lichfield’s entry into the Heart of England in Bloom competition 2013. The City is truly looking lovely with fabulous floral displays springing up all over, some of which are shown here.

Lichfield Chamber of Trade & Commerce entered Lichfield into the Heart of England in Bloom contest again this year following the first time success in 2012 where the City gained a Silver/Gilt Award.

Chamber President Richard Lewis accompanied to Judges from HoEiB around the City on 4th July taking in the City Centre and Beacon Park, Minster Pool Walk and the Gardens of Remembrance. Also visited were Christian Fields Nature Reserve off Eastern Avenue, Netherstowe Allotments, St Johns Garden in The Close and the Darwin House Herb Garden.

The judges were very impressed with the effort put in by the 'Blooming Lichfield' team and in particular the sense of community they experienced on their tour.

We now have to wait until 12th September to find out what award the City has earned following a presentation day which this year is being held within Lichfield District at Drayton Manor Park.

Schools throughout the Lichfield District where invited to plant up a wheelbarrow with floral displays along the theme of ‘three spires’, the winning school was St Chad’s Junior School.

The event was organised and held at Curborough Craft Centre. The winning school won the oppurtunity to name a baby eagle. The name they chose was Chad.

Judging Heart of England in Bloom. Richard Lewis and members of the LDC Parks Dept show judges around Beacon Park

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Winning Wheelbarrow by St Chad's School

Little Aston School

School with display

Mills & Boon

publishes debut novel

by Local Author

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ince You’ve Been Gone is the highly anticipated first novel by Lichfield born Anouska Knight, winner of ITV Lorraine’s Racy Reads competition, and is set to be one of this summer’s hottest reads.

Racy Reads, a nationwide competition featured on ITV’s Lorraine programme at the beginning of 2013, set out to find the latest writer of racy romantic fiction and was judged by international bestselling author Jackie Collins and 2013’s top bonkbuster writer, Victoria Fox. Despite fierce competition from over two thousand entries from aspiring writers, Anouska’s manuscript stood out for its emotional observation and relatable characters. The prize, awarded in February 2013, included lunch with Jackie Collins in Los Angeles and a publishing contract with leading romantic fiction publisher, Mills & Boon.

The story follows the journey of Holly Jefferson, whose life changes dramatically and forever, in one tragic moment. Now – to the external world, at least – she’s finally getting back on her feet, running her special occasion cake business, Cake. Then she meets Ciaran Argyll. His rich and charmed life feels a million miles from her own. However, there’s more to Ciaran than the superficial world that surrounds him, and he too is wrestling with his own ghosts. Will Holly find the missing ingredient that allows her to live again – and embrace an unknown tomorrow?

Working as an interior designer before having her two sons, Anouska started her own special occasion cake business after honing her baking skills creating treats for them. When she had to close the business in 2012, she decided to focus on writing a novel – and by chance saw Lorraine Kelly announce the competition. She lives in Rugeley with husband Jim, her childhood sweetheart, and their two boys Radley Bo and Loch.

Joss Musgrove Knibb, Deputy Editor of the Gazette met Anouska at a book launch event held at the Spark Cafe on Monday 15th July where Anouska commented: “When I met Jackie Collins in LA I was bowled over by how lovely she is. She’s an amazing woman and was very kind. She even told me to get in touch any time if I needed any advice, and is sending me copies of pictures that were taken on the day.

“I have always loved anything creative and it’s amazing to be able to have my first book published.

“Since you’ve been gone is about the different loves we all experience, how we can often be misunderstood and how there’s always something new on the horizon.”

Lorraine Kelly described it as: ‘A brilliant page-turner...we’ve discovered a real talent’.

The book launch at The Spark Cafe was filmed by ITV for broadcast on the Lorraine show on Tuesday 16th July.

Since You’ve Been Gone (RRP £6.99) is available in paperback and eBook at all good booksellers and at www.millsandboon.co.uk

WIN WIN WIN

We have a signed copy of Anouska Knight’s debut novel to be won in our ‘Since You’ve Been Gone’ competition.

To be in with a chance of winning just answer the following question: In ‘Since You’ve Been Gone’, what is the name of Holly Jefferson’s cake shop?

A. Cake B. Patisserie Holly C. Baking World Send your name, answer and contact details to PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ or email Gazette editorial@hotmail.co.uk by competition closing date of Friday 16th August. The winner will be notified by Saturday 17th August. One entry per household please, duplicates will be disqualified.

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GazetteNews

MP Officially Opens Wheel Lane Post Office

Chairman’s Charity Cheques

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n Monday July 8th, Lichfield District Council’s former Chairman presented cheques to his two chosen charities.

In his year as the Chairman of Lichfield District Council, Councillor Ken Humphreys raised £2,400 for charity.

The former chairman, who was joined by his wife Maureen, was on hand at District Council House to present cheques of £1,200 to both Simon Price, Patron of the We Love Lichfield Fund, and Jo Bailey, Fundraising Manager for Midlands Air Ambulance.

Councillor Ken Humphreys, Chairman of Lichfield District Council from May 2012 to May 2013, commented: “I would like to thank everyone who attended my charity events and gave so generously. I thoroughly enjoyed my year as Chairman, and one of the many highlights was raising money for two important charities.”

Fundraising events included hosting a charity dinner dance and a charity night.

Simon Price, Patron of the We Love Lichfield Fund, said: “The

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Jo Bailey, Ken Humphreys and Simon Price beauty of giving to the We Love Lichfield Fund is that it enables community and voluntary groups to access a pot of vital funding. To be able to offer these grants in a time of economic uncertainty is fantastic and we’d like to thank Councillor Humphreys for his support over the past year.”

To find out more or to make a donation, please visit www.staffsfoundation.org.uk/weloveli chfield or call the Staffordshire Community Foundation team on 01782 683000.

Jo Bailey, Fundraising Manager for Midlands Air Ambulance, added: “I would like to thank Councillor Humphreys for choosing us as one of his charities. It costs £6 million each year to keep the air ambulances that cover the Midlands operational, so every donation helps us to continue our vital work.”

To find out more, or to make a donation to Midlands Air Ambulance, please visit www.midlandsairambulance.com or call 0800 8 40 20 40.

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o celebrate the launch of the new Wheel Lane Post Office, MP Michael Fabricant ‘cut the ribbon’ at an opening ceremony on Friday 19 July 2013.

The Post Office branch relocated from its former site at 149 Beacon Street to 46-48 Wheel Lane, Lichfield, WS13 7EA on 24 June. The new branch offers customers a modern branch and significantly extended opening hours.

Subpostmaster Ravinda Sanghera said: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to modernise Wheel Lane Post Office and I am very pleased to be officially launching it today for the community. We hope our customers like the new branch and I’d like to thank Mr Fabricant for coming today.”

Michael Fabricant MP added: “I’m delighted to officially open the new Wheel Lane Post Office.

Ravinda is to be congratulated on her work to develop the branch which will make a real difference for the community. I wish her continued success with the business.”

The new Wheel Lane Post Office has three serving positions, a mixture of two screened counter positions and a Post Office serving point at the retail counter - a new concept for delivering Post Office products and services alongside retail transactions during shop opening hours.

Opening hours at the new branch are Monday to Sunday: 08.00-22.00.

This offers customers an extra 52 hours a week to access Post Office products and services.

GazetteFeature

Simple Steps to the Perfect Smile Q. Does a patient have to see a dentist for complete dentures?

Matt Burnell is a Clinical Dental Technician (CDT) at The Smile Centre on Upper St John Street in Lichfield and he, more than most, can answer this question for you.

A Day in the Life of a Clinical Dental Technician Like most professional people, Matt’s working day has a number of different elements but the first and perhaps the most important part is preparation.

Before his first patient arrives, Matt will look through the day’s schedule and check the individual charts for each patient he will see and review their medical histories. He needs to know what the previous appointments were for and what treatment took place. It might have been a review, an emergency or a repair but familiarising himself with the potential requirements for each patient puts him in a strong position to assess the patients’ needs.

He will also check that any required laboratory work is ready before setting up the treatment room. He’ll then check to make sure all the surfaces and equipment are spotlessly clean and in full working order as well as ensuring that any supplies he might need are available. The tooth fairy doesn’t do all the hard work!

Matt’s day will be varied in terms of the patients he is seeing and the dental work that will be carried out. He may have a referral from a local dentist for someone with complications that could end up being referred to an implantologist or a patient returning for a denture fitting.

One of the things that Matt is perfectly aware

of is that fact that most people don’t enjoy having dental work done and that some are extremely nervous. Initially he will be assessing the level of nervousness and putting patients at their ease. After a few minutes of conversation, during which he reviews their health history to update his records, the patient’s blood pressure should have stabilised sufficiently for them to be settled into the chair and the treatment to commence.

All appointments are customised in length according to the patients’ needs, some will only be there for fifteen minutes and some may need longer treatment sessions.

Half a dozen patients and a lunch break later the working day is coming to an end.

Unfortunately, and because of the shortage of tooth fairies, Matt and his team will then begin the process of disinfecting and inspecting the equipment, washing the floor and general tidying up.

Whilst many people think the role of a CDT is to just make and fit dentures and implants, Matt is anxious for people to know that he has a

Phone for consult a free ation 01543 415288

passion for the work he does and is enormously proud of the impact it has of the lives of the people he treats. He literally transforms lives and Matt takes great satisfaction from knowing that modern, well fitted and natural looking dentures can boost people’s confidence, allowing them to speak, smile, laugh and even eat foods they haven’t tried in years.

So, the answer to the question?

Matt Burnell assures patients that you don’t necessarily have to visit a dentist first. You can book an appointment to see Matt at The Smile Centre, the only Clinical Dental Technician’s practice in Lichfield.

Matthew Burnell BSc (Hons), Dip CDT RCS (Eng) The Smile Centre (Midlands) Limited.

46 Upper St John Street, Lichfield WS14 9DX. Tel: 01543 415288 Web: www.thesmilecentremidlands.co.uk GDC No. 123633

info@thesmilecentremidlands.co.uk.

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OPEN DAY SATURDAY 5TH OCTOBER 2013 11AM TO 3PM

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Springhill

NEW PRIVATELY OWNED CEMETERY

Walsall Burial Park – Take care of the future at today’s prices Springhill Cemetery Group, a privately owned cemetery company opened their first site, Walsall Burial Park to the public in Late 2012. A second larger site in Lichfield called Springhill Cemetery will follow later this year.

Walsall Burial Park – Burntwood offers burial space for the whole community. No regional restrictions apply meaning the site is open for all with fixed pricing for all types of plots.

Specific religious sections have been established, and mixed non-denominational sections are available for all, including designated sections for Baby and Infant plots.

Springhill Cemetery Group offers a unique preneed purchase system, which enables people to purchase a selected plot for future need. Plots are priced from £650 and many plots have been reserved already. Where the community faces a shortage of burial space and an impending critical situation at most local authority sites in the future, Springhill Cemetery Group are offering a unique package to assist families for the future at their greatest time of need, allowing families to pay today’s prices to avoid the annual future inflation.

It makes sense to plan for the future now Set in beautifully landscaped parkland settings, with monitored CCTV and Alarm systems, Walsall Burial Park offers an unrivalled space for family burials. All plots come with a fixed concrete header included which allows immediate memorial fixing.

The layout and setup of the sites allows minimal future maintenance and upkeep ensuring that the

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site will remain in good standing into perpetuity.

Fully trained and insured burial teams are ready, providing burials seven days a week, and to custom specifications. Families can arrange a viewing and select numbered plots in specific areas of the cemetery for future burial arrangements. A large section has recently been reserved by the Chinese community for communal family ashes burials.

A lot can be said for arranging your final resting place now - so your family don’t have to.

Buy peace of mind and real assurance Payments can be arranged interest free over set annual terms, meaning the plots and facilities are made affordable for all. Many people who have purchased a funeral plan or a funeral insurance package do not have a burial plot included within their package. Springhill Cemetery Group welcomes these pre-planning individuals to come and select and plot with up to 99 years exclusive rights of burial, meaning every eventuality can be covered to support their pre-planned funeral arrangements.

To arrange a viewing or to discuss future requirements, Springhill Cemetery Group welcomes your enquiry. A no obligation sales package can be ordered for further information.

Please telephone: 0845 680 3785 Email: info@springhillcemetery.co.uk Website: www.walsallburialpark.co.uk Springhill Cemetery Group, Sales & Administration Office: Regent House, 188-192 Gooch Street, Birmingham, B5 7HY

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PETS CORNER Summer Health For Pets by Pool House Veterinary Hospital With summer finally upon us it is important to remember our furry friends especially as the temperatures rise. So at Pool House Veterinary Group we’ve devised a list of top tips to keep your pets healthy this summer.

Keeping Pets Cool In Warm Weather • Never leave your pet in a car – even with the windows open. Temperatures soar very quickly and this can have a fatal effect. If you are taking your dog on a car journey make sure your destination is dog friendly as you won’t be able to leave them in the car.

• When travelling with your pet make sure that the windows are open or that your car is nice and cool.

• Never leave your pet in a glass conservatory or caravan. Even if it is cloudy when you leave, the sun may come out later and make it unbearably hot.

• Don’t let pets sit out in strong sun – provide a shady spot where they can keep cool.

• Do not leave hutches, cages or runs in direct sunlight. Small furries can overheat too!

• Make sure your pet always has a good supply of fresh drinking water. Carry water with you when out with your dog.

• Walk your dog first thing in the morning or last thing at night when it is cooler.

Remember that hot road surfaces, pavements and sand can burn paws!

• Groom your pet regularly to get rid of excess hair. Give long coated breeds a haircut at the start of summer, and later in the season, if necessary.

• Dogs get sunburn too! Particularly those with light coloured noses or light coloured fur on their ears. Ask your vet for more advice on pet safe sunscreen.

Flystrike In Rabbits • This is a disease which occurs when flies lay their eggs around the rabbit’s anus.

• The eggs hatch into maggots which mature and burrow under the skin making the rabbit extremely ill. This can be fatal. Pets most at risk at are those suffering from obesity, dental disease, diarrhoea, arthritis and skin wounds and those living in dirty hutches.

• The majority of cases are due to flies being attracted to droppings or diarrhoea stuck to the rabbit’s bottom caused by poor diet.

• There are preventative treatments available that prevent eggs hatching into maggots. However combined with a good diet, prevention of obesity, dental disease and diarrhoea can all help guard against fly strike. Talk to your vet about preventative treatments available.

• Good hygiene is also vital check your rabbit at least twice daily especially during the summer months!

Heatstroke – First Aid • Symptoms of heat stroke include – excessive panting, salivation, distress and collapse.

• If your pet shows any symptoms of heatstroke, move them to a shaded, cool area and ring your vet for advice immediately.

• Heatstroke can be fatal and should always be treated as an emergency.

• Pets suffering from heatstroke urgently need to have their body temperature gradually lowered. Immediately douse your pet with cool (not cold) water, to avoid shock – you could put your dog in a shower and run cool water over them, or use a spray filled with cool water and place your pet in the breeze of a fan.

• Let your pet drink small amounts of cool water.

• Continue to douse your pet with cool water until his/her breathing starts to settle – never cool your pet so much that he/she begins to shiver.

• Once you have cooled your pet down you should take him/her straight to the veterinary surgery.

BBQ Safety • Eating BBQ scraps can upset your pet’s tummy. Unfamiliar, fatty and undercooked foods can cause vomiting & diarrhoea.

• Throw away any leftover food and rubbish in a lidded dustbin. A corn on the cob core or a kebab skewer can cause serious harm and may have to be surgically removed.

• Keep lighter fluid well out of reach as this can be fatal if swallowed.

• Keep glasses and drinks well out of reach of thirsty pets. Alcohol can be hazardous to pets if swallowed.

Pool House 24hr Emergency Contact 01543 262464 For further information or for treatment advice please contact Pool House Veterinary Hospital on 01543 262464 or 01543 262433

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Florette Festival Market goes like a rocket!

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Located in a quaint courtyard within Heart of the Country Shopping Village is Staffordshire’s and The West Midlands’ first Cupcake Boutique. Owners Whitney and David Hurst pride themselves on freshly home made cupcakes, lovingly made for you to enjoy in their bright vintage tea rooms or to take away with you.

However, there is more to the Boutique than tea and cake. Lazy Days also offer Summer Holiday Workshops & Activities, Decorating Courses & Workshops, Parties, After school and Toddler Cake Club, Book Club and Shopping Nights.

We have lots of exciting workshops & events coming up in July & August, full details can be found on our website, www.lazydaycakes.co.uk, booking is essential as spaces do fill up quickly. To book or if you have any queries please call Whitney on 07581 466440 Decorating Club Tuesday’s & Thursday’s 10.30 booking is essential After School Cupcake Decorating Club ~ Term Time Tuesday & Wednesday’s 3.30pm ** £3.00 ~ A cupcake to decorate & eat with the group plus a drink & a cupcake to decorate & take home! ** Children’s Summer Holiday Workshops £15.00 per child, which includes a Decorating Class, four cupcakes to take home, squash and a cupcake to eat whilst in the boutique.

Week 1 ~ Wednesday 24th July ** Monsters & Aliens ** Week 2 ~ Wednesday 31st July ** Colourful Fondant ** Week 3 ~ Wednesday 7th August ** Animals ** Week 4 ~ Wednesday 14th August ** Princess week ~ Tiaras, dresses, hearts, flowers & turrets ** Week 5 ~ Wednesday 21st August ** Boy’s Week ~ Batman, Spiderman, Football & Sports ** Week 6 ~ Wednesday 28th August ** Creative Cupcakes ~ We will bring all our equipment and help the children decorate their cupcakes however they wish ** Lazy Days have a selection of workshops suitable for ladies and gents from 16 years old! The classes will be ran in the Boutique and prices include a Cupcakes & Hot or cold drink. There are only ever six people at any one time to ensure every gets the level of attention they need!

Booking is ESSENTIAL as spaces are Limited ~ Call Whitney on 07581 466440 or even better why not pop in to the Boutique to enjoy a delicious Cupcake and a cup of tea with us!

For more information please visit our website

WWW.LAZYDAYCAKES.CO.UK

** Some adult workshops run 1pm - 3pm please check the website for more details **

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he annual Florette Festival Market took place around a scorching Lichfield Cathedral Close and featured over 130 craft stalls, local food producers and demonstrations as well as entertainment from many local performers. Stalls for this year’s market which spread all down Dam Street and Minster Walk sold out in record time and organisers at the Lichfield Festival were very excited to be welcoming many new sellers to the event.

The Festival Market grows every year and is a spectacular annual showcase for many of the best local crafters and artists in our region. This year we welcomed over 40 new stallholders bringing unique crafts and food to the City as well as many new performers from across the region.

Many stalls were displaying and selling jewellery, ceramics, art, wood carving, plants and much more.

A spokesperson from Sponsors Florette said before the event: “We are delighted to once again sponsor this great community event showcasing the wealth of products and fresh produce Lichfield has to offer. As well as offering a mix of entertainment and shopping, the market will also feature fresh food demonstrations and competitions, so something for everyone.”

The Florette stand was no exception to this and injected fun into salad making both in the run up to, and during the festival.

With a fabulous range of stalls, tasty food on offer, great free entertainment and gorgeous weather, The Florette Festival Market had the recipe for success! Photos by Robert Yardly.

Appointment of new Lichfield Rotary Club President

C

ongratulations to Mr Chris Spruce who has been appointed as President of Lichfield Rotary Club (that has contributed so much to the City in its 62 years of operation).

Brian Darby, Public Relations Officer for the club commented: "Lichfield Rotary Club changeover of officers is in July and at their lunch time meeting point at Darnford Moors Golf Club last week (11th July) former President the Rev Roger Williams presented the badge of office over to the new incumbent for the year to Mr Chris Spruce who is a councillor and former Mayor of Lichfield.”

Rev Williams has been the resident Chaplin and master at St John's Hospital Alms houses in Lichfield. Both live in the city. Looking on (in the image shown here) is David Kershaw who is President elect for 2014, who lives on Boley Park and is a retired bank official.

The Club has managed to raise in excess of some £5000 with a sponsored walk by several members who walked the entire byways and footpaths of Staffordshire over a two week period in May. They are also grateful for the wonderful response by the public who helped to raise funds at a ‘Bottle’ stall at the medieval market at Lichfield Cathedral last week. In addition at the Co-operative Store on Boley Park two weeks previously they appreciated the public's help at a collection which raised over £311.

These and other monies go towards local charities and also to the supply of emergency boxes which are sent all over the world to offer shelter for those effected by natural disasters such as recent earth quakes in Italy and Turkey to war zones in the Middle East.

The club is looking for members to join them who have had business experience who can offer help to others through the Rotary slogan ‘Peace through service’.

For details go to http://www.rotary-ribi.org/ .

DO YOU NEED STAFF?

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• We are recruiting experts.

• We give a full agency service • Job design expertise

‘We can fulfil all your recruitment needs’

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PLEASE CONTACT US NOW TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS New Minster House, Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel 01543 439475. (next to Ego Restaurant) www.forbesrecruitment.com

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GazetteNews

Maple Hayes raises funds for Teenage Cancer Trust

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ongratulations go to Maple Hayes Dyslexia School in Lichfield for their excellent fundraising efforts. Each year the school has smashed its fundraising targets and this July the pupils have gone above and beyond for a very special cause.

After hearing the story of Stephen Sutton, a local lad battling cancer, Maple Hayes put on a day of charity activities including a bake sale, raffle and non-uniform day. The school also enlisted the help of talented young singer Joe McCorriston to put on a performance, giving pupils and parents the opportunity to pay to see him sing.

Overall, the school raised ÂŁ1,100 for Teenage Cancer Trust .

Joe McCorriston with Maple Hayes students.

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MADE IN LICHFIELD

By Regal Carpentry

It is so nice these days to know you can still get good oldfashioned service and a quality product ‘Made in Lichfield’.

Multi-point window

The Team

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hris Christofi is a time served master joiner who began as an apprentice carpenter in a small building firm in Nuneaton 16 years ago.

Supported by wife Lisa, Regal Carpentry moved into lager premises off Beacon Street in May. Here they manufacture their own windows, doors, French windows, staircases, orangeries and conservatories, in fact all bespoke solutions in a variety of solid hardwoods.

Windows are finished German precision multi-point locking system (that you might find on the better UPVC windows) and sealed double glazed window units. The benefit of having wood is that wood retains more heat and so is less expense on your fuel bills. You can see from TV programs like Grand Designs that there is a trend towards wooden windows.

More house owners are going back to natural material for their windows because they are more contemporary to properties throughout Lichfield, and look a lot more attractive than white plastic.

experience includes working for English Heritage where they have converted two Grade II listed cottages. They offer a site survey, free quotation, manufacture in Lichfield and installation by Regal’s own expert fitters (or supply only if preferred). Using up-to-date machinery means faster production, quicker orders and happy customers.

Solid timber products

“At Regal we offer a free design service using the latest software, where our priority is to listen to what you want and use our skills and experience to interpret and achieve just that. With our vast knowledge of timbers from around the world and creative skill we are sure to satisfy even the most challenging project.

Plus we don’t employ any salesmen!”

Experienced Craftsmen and Guaranteed Work Regal work closely with the customer to provide a personal finish with a professional and reliable service guaranteed. Regal’s

So there we have it, the professional joinery company who were just around the corner all the time!

Finishing a door

Skylight

Building Work

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Chris says: “Our philosophy is to provide a genuine and personal service based around the needs and desires of each customer. We offer a personal service ensuring quality and professionalism throughout. Using our experience we work with the cutomer to design and create the perfect finished article whether it’s an orangery or a single sash window. We will project manage the whole job including building work.

Chris and Lisa Christofi of Regal Joinery

Contact Chris or Lisa on 01543 300893 or arrange to see them at Unit 2, Greenhough Road, Lichfield or Chris will visit your home by appointment.

City People Chris Spruce

By Joss Musgrove Knibb

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hris Spruce is one of those individuals who has been dedicated to making, and continues to make a real change for the better in our City.

Chris was born in Walsall and attended the Joseph Leckie School.

Chris’ Dad worked for the Inland Revenue for many years, and he inherited his father’s numerical abilities, taking a five year correspondence course in chartered accountancy as a very young man, and becoming a certified chartered accountant in 1967.

Chris with an affectionate Chris was a very keen soccer player caricature presented to him and spent two years playing for Walsall by staff and pupils of Lichfield Phoenix FC when a bad knee injury led Cathedral School. to ligament surgery. Sadly, this put paid to playing football, but led on to a period of professional refereeing, which included matches for premiere clubs such as Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City. Chris also refereed the Nottingham Forest final game of the season after they won the European Cup. Chris was 46 at the time, and would, like the other sportsmen on the reffing list, referee twice a month and act as linesman twice a month. Chris would have been recommended to this list of only 90 individuals out of a possible 28,000. Fitness was of paramount importance as an average game could see a ref running 8.5 to 9 miles. In order to be chosen as a professional referee, individuals would have to take the ‘Cooper Test’. This rigorously tested fitness (out of a 90 minute game, at least an hour is spent running, often backwards!) and Chris’ regime also included training at least three times a week.

During these years, Chris’ career in accountancy and finance also went from strength to strength, seeing Chris appointed as Group Finance Director of Phoenix Beard, a position he held for 24 years. Chris retired at 60 (ten years ago) and within 12 months had been appointed Bursar of Lichfield Cathedral School, a position he held until 2009.

From 2010 to 2011 Chris was Mayor of Lichfield, a time Chris describes as; “A wonderful experience.”

Chris and his family moved to Lichfield in 1972 where he has lived very happily since. He commented: “For 35 years I was a typical commuter, travelling every day and not seeing a lot of the place I was living in.” All that changed as Chris started to develop a serious interest in local politics, and a chance conversation with MP Michael Fabricant led to Chris standing and winning election to Lichfield City Council in 2007. In 2011 he stood for re-election to the City Council, and also for District Council and was again elected. In May 2013 Chris was appointed District Council Cabinet Member for Finance and Democratic and Legal Services.

At 70, Chris is enormously busy, not least with his recent appointment as President of the Lichfield Rotarian Club (founded in 1951). Chris is also a Fund Advisor to the ‘We Love Lichfield Fund’.

His love of Lichfield dates back to 1959, when he and a few friends (all 16 or 17 years old) would drive over to the jazz club that used to be on Bakers Lane (not least because Lichfield pubs served for half an hour longer than pubs in Walsall!).

It was on these evenings that Chris first fell in love with the City. After years of travelling and living all over the country, he has never regretted his move.

In 1992 Chris was heavily involved with the group who regenerated the Lichfield Mysteries, with the first mystery play performed in 1994.

Despite a packed schedule, Chris also spends at least one afternoon a week taking care of his young granddaughter Grace. It seems that Grace is very fond of Rupert Bear as Chris smilingly tells me whilst removing a Rupert jigsaw puzzle out of the frame for one photograph.

During our interview I was struck by Chris’ energy and approachability. It’s the City of Lichfield that has benefited from his years of dedication......long may it continue.

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GazetteNews

Mayor and Sheriff’s Charities

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ormer Mayor of Lichfield, Janet Eagland, and former Sheriff, Brian Bacon raised over £4,000 during their year of office in 2012-13, and cheques have now been distributed between their chosen charities.

On Monday 1 July, Councillor Mrs Janet Eagland, presented a cheque for £1,065 to Debbie Hill and Emily Weighill of the Alzheimer’s Society. A further cheque for £1,065 was presented to Frank and Patricia Sulley of the Lichfield and Burntwood Social Club for the Blind who were accompanied by former Mayoress Mrs Elsie Smith a regular attendee of the group of some 30 – 40 members.

Former Sheriff, Cllr Brian Bacon visited Lichfield 9th (Saxonhill) Scout Group at their Tuesday meeting and presented a cheque for £2,130 which will be used to purchase specialist camping and other equipment.

The funds have been raised by various events hosted by the Mayor and Sheriff, including a Charity Dinner Dance, a Country Casuals Fashion Show and a concert at Lichfield Cathedral.

Councillors Eagland and Bacon would like to thank all the local businesses and groups and individuals who have supported their fundraising activities during the year.

Michael's Sock Draw

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ollowing a recent competition in the Lichfield Gazette the Mayor Cllr Bob Awty was on hand to draw the now legendary Sock Draw sponsored by Viyella.The winner was Mrs J Tilley of Willowmere who wins a pair of Viyella socks and a bottle of Bubbly.

Michael Mullarkey, Neil Simpson: Sales Manager (Viyella), and Mayor Cllr Bob Awty

Breaking Up Is Hard To Do – Know Your Rights

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

In November 2012 the Office for National Statistics released figures showing that 5.9 million people in the UK were cohabiting – twice as many as in 1996. Yet despite the increase in numbers, many people falsely believe that unmarried couples who have lived together for a period of time are considered married by ‘common law’ and that, as a result, their legal rights are the same as married couples. Here Helen Bradin, Partner at local solicitors Bradin Trubshaw & Kirwan LLP, advises on some of the legal misconceptions and pitfalls that can arise regarding property and possessions when a cohabiting relationship breaks down.

Q: I moved into my partner’s house 10 years ago but we’ve never quite got round to tying the knot. We’ve hit a bit of a rough patch and I’m worried what will happen about the house if we split up?

Helen: Firstly, contrary to popular belief, in UK law there is no such thing as common law marriage which means that cohabiting partners do not have the same rights as married couples or civil partners - it does not matter how many years you have lived together. As your partner owns the house and assuming you do not have a cohabitation agreement in place or have not paid money to substantially improve its value, and there is no agreement that you should have an interest, then unfortunately you may not have a right to a share in the house should he ask you to leave.

Q: My boyfriend and I are planning to buy a house together but I’m concerned that I am contributing significantly more towards the deposit than he is. It’s not romantic, but can I protect my investment should we break up?

Helen: It is a good idea to sort out your financial arrangements prior to buying your property. There are two options here. If you become joint tenants you will both own the whole property and inherit the whole property in the event of a death. Also if you split up and sell your house you will however usually get half. But if you are contributing a great deal more towards the deposit then you could become tenants in common with a trust deed which allows you to split your shares up accordingly – for example 70:30. You will not automatically get each other’s share if one of you dies though unless this is expressed in a will. It’s a good idea to get advice from your solicitor before you decide.

Q: My girlfriend and I lived very happily together for five years when tragically she was killed in a road accident. As we were only in our 20s we hadn’t made wills.

Now her family are demanding that I give them all her possessions and the small amount of money she’d saved. Can they do this?

Helen: I am sorry to say that without a will you do not automatically inherit your girlfriend’s money or possessions, they go to blood relations even though you lived together for a few years. The same applies if your home was in your partner’s name or you were joint tenants in common, however you can make a claim on the estate in certain circumstances. It is always advisable to make a will to protect your assets however gloomy that may seem.

Q: Having had my fingers burned by a previous relationship I am cautious about setting up home with my new partner. Is there anything I can do to look after my interests?

Helen: Yes, it’s a good idea to draw up a cohabitation agreement which allows you both to set out in advance who owns what – property, assets, house contents, savings, personal belongings etc. – and how they will be divided if you split up. The best way forward is to discuss this with your partner and for one partner to commission a lawyer to draw up an agreement which should be independently checked by the other’s solicitor.

It is important that you have separate lawyers to show to a court, if necessary, that noone was put under pressure to sign the agreement.

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

GazetteFeature

So where did it all begin for

Lichfield soprano Sarah Ryan?

Here, Sarah’s Dad, Martin Ryan talks about his talented daughters rise to International acclaim.

Access All Arias (l to r - Sarah Eyden, Sarah Ryan & Helen Hobson) I opened my daily paper and saw an invitation to the final auditions for a part in the world famous "Les Miserables" production that was opening at the beautiful Palace Theatre in Manchester, the first time it would be performed outside London.

The auditions had been happening for some weeks so this was the final chance for our Sarah to try her luck. There were two problems. One, the audition advertised was being held in Scotland. Two, Sarah (who was then 18) was already well into a performing arts degree at Middlesex University. When we phoned and told her she was desperate to sing for the experts auditioning people for this top of the tops show.

But Scotland! Sarah's big sister became the deciding factor, at least about the Scotland bit. “I’ll go up there with her" said Katie. So, off they went. When they got there, they had to wait their turn in a huge queue with about 2000 other young hopefuls.

Sarah eventually got her turn to sing, and after 5 recall auditions, we finally had a phone call from the Les Miz company office, inviting Sarah to join the production. In addition to this, and to encourage her acceptance, they also wanted her to understudy the lead role of Cosette.

To be offered this opportunity at so young an age, and with no musical theatre experience behind her, was quite an honour. It placed Sarah's mom and me in a very difficult position, knowing that accepting the offer would put paid to her performing arts degree. Our solution was to phone her uni tutor, and make our decision in light of the advice she would give us. Without hesitation she said, "Mr Ryan, Sarah will learn more about acting and singing in six months in that show, than we could teach her in six years.

Just go for it."

The Les Miz people phoned back the following day, and made plain that they wanted Sarah in this show. And as they say - the rest is history.

Some 20 years of West-End starring roles followed, with Page 36 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

a long list of integral parts in musicals such as Les Miz, Phantom of the Opera, Beauty and the Beast, Evita, etc. (not forgetting playing the part of the pole dancer in the "Jerry Springer the Opera!)

Sarah's musical career did not exactly start here with the successful Les Miz audition as my narrative might have suggested. Three years earlier, when she was fifteen, she brought honour to her home town of Lichfield, by winning the "BBC Choirgirl of the Year Competition" which became the vehicle that launched her career.

We picked up the Sunday papers in London from the street stalls at something like 4am the following morning and she was all over them, front page for some, with big, big photographs everywhere. Her headmaster was holidaying in Malta, and was hit with the news, by a photograph of her on the front page of his Sunday Times.

On the night of Sarah's win, we were telephoned at our hotel, from the House of Lords, by Lord Fitt. He invited us to "The House" and met us on the steps of Westminster the next morning to give us the grand tour, including a beautiful little known chapel, which has witnessed some very special weddings. Lord Fitt told us he was a good friend of Terry Wogan and many musical people who could do Sarah’s career a lot of good. He even tried to get Terry on the telephone there and then. Unfortunately we never heard from Lord Fitt again. Such is life!

Funnily enough, not more than about 3 years ago, it was Terry Wogan who introduced Sarah onto the stage at one of her outdoor proms as "A star, a real star, and star of so many west-end musicals such as….” And he rattled them all off.

That choirgirl year was a real roller-coaster. She made 65 radio broadcasts from BBC local and national stations plus Channel 4. Her first solo performance with the BBC Concert Orchestra was on the “Friday Night Is Music Night.” She was also featured on six or seven TV shows all in all, I must have worn several sets of tyres off my car.

In addition, the big BBC outside broadcast van was, on so many occasions, outside her classroom, trailing massive lengths of cable everywhere. Her school friends loved all the excitement. Her Headmaster did also, because of all the publicity he was receiving for the school. In all her broadcasts, she made sure she had plenty to say about her home town of Lichfield.

Since those days, she has performed at the Royal Albert Hall and the Royal Festival Hall on many, many occasions as well as Birmingham Symphony Hall. She has performed with some of the world’s greatest orchestras all over the world including Taiwan, Singapore (at the world famous "Raffles"), Las Vegas, Japan, Russia, Australia and so many more places that I’ve lost track!

She and her new Group "Access All Arias" have even performed at her Dads folk club at the Crown Inn, Alrewas!

Despite all of Sarah's national and international success, this is the first time she has been invited to perform in her home town at any of the Lichfield classical

Sarah Ryan

or prestigious performances, such as the Lichfield Festival.

I have a little bit of advice for any young person who may be blessed with an above average voice, who might have designs on a musical career, get yourself a good teacher/voice coach. If the voice is there, you will need the technique to enhance, cultivate, preserve and protect it.

Sarah had the best, from about 9 years old, in the form of Pat Nixon. Pat is a well known Lichfield soprano, and an excellent singing teacher, but I don’t know if she is still teaching. Sarah also had a wonderful singing teacher at college, Joyce Rogers, and more recently in London, Jennie Caron. The world’s best professionals never totally give up on their teachers, to prevent any bad singing habits from developing. Sarah’s so thankful to for all they did for her to help create the wonderful music, with a voice, described by at least one London critic as "notes like diamond drops."

Sarah is not taking on any long running commitments at the moment because she and her partner Nick are expecting their second child in January.

That has not stopped her performing in a wide range of situations. She has recently sung backing vocals for Robbie Williams latest CD (not yet released but take it from Sarah - it's great). She also did the same on Susan Boyle’s The Gift album and has sung on the latest film backgrounds of The Great Gatsby, Alice in Wonderland, Sweeney Todd and two Pirates of the Caribbean amongst others.

If anyone wants further information on any of the above matters, you are welcome to phone me at 01283 790 777.

Or email me at pamartinryan@hotmail.com. If you would like to know more about Sarah, go to www.sarahryan.com or search Sarah Ryan on You Tube.

And what she’s so excited about is her new group Access All Arias: AAA. Check out www.accessallarias.co.uk or even better, come and see them perform their own concert the night after the Lichfield Proms, at BUXTON OPERA HOUSE on Sunday Sept 8th.

Use the following link to book tickets and let us know if you do – the girls will make sure any Lichfield audience members get a special mention! www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/whats-on/access-allarias The first week of September is looking pretty busy for a pregnant, Mummy of one Lichfield Soprano!

Sarah Ryan singing up a patriotic storm!

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It is the knowledge he has gained from those years that has made him realise that many people want companions as much, if not more, than they need their carers. You need not be ill, in poor health or elderly to want a companion, the reasons are wide and varied.

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It is Phil’s caring nature to be a good companion to the people who are his clients, and clients and their families recognise the value of what he has to offer. The Good Company Companion rates are reasonable and affordable, Phil owns a car and he is fully insured with all the appropriate liability cover and CRB checked. Phil is reliable and flexible enough to be able to handle most situations in a mature, courteous and professional manner.

Phil Chester aims to grow his Good Company Companion business to help people who perhaps have no family, are maybe lonely or even part of a network or family who need respite. Daytime and weekend respite is available. Other experienced carers who wish to join him and offer their services to people throughout the Lichfield area have already approached him.

You are welcome to see the many testimonials Phil Chester has received from his satisfied clientele. Here are a few extracts: “My Mother’s face lights up when he comes into the room, and she is always happy to see him…we as a family have total confidence in his abilities.”

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Tel: 01543 253750 Mobile: 07966 548592 Email: spjchester@aol.com Page 37

GazetteHeritage

The Gardens of Lichfield Carrying on the theme of ‘Lichfield in Bloom’ – Kate Gomez of lichfieldlore.co.uk guides us around some of the historic and sometimes forgotten gardens of Lichfield.

Early 20thc postcard of Museum Gardens

Erasmus Darwin’s Botanic Garden and Dr Floyer’s Bath.

In 1777, Erasmus Darwin bought a plot of land just outside the city of Lichfield, where he could cultivate a botanic garden, 'uniting the Linnean science with the charm of landscape’.

The site at the Abnalls contained the remains of a cold bath erected by Sir John Floyer some seventy years earlier, and Darwin incorporated this into his design. The bath, which Floyer had named after St Chad, was filled with water from a spring known as Unetts (or Unity) Well, said to be the coldest in Lichfield, a good three or four degrees lower in temperature than the water from the spring at Stowe. One of the other natural features at the site was a rock that dripped water three times a minute, which ‘no rains increase, no frost congeals, nor summer’s heat dries up’.

When Darwin left Lichfield, Mr Jackson (a member of the City’s botanical society alongside Darwin and Sir Brooke Boothby) continued to maintain the garden until his death. In 1804, Darwin’s widowed daughterin-law sold the garden to John Atkinson of Maple Hayes and in 1823 the site was advertised for letting ‘with the bath and the fruit trees.’

Clearly the garden was not maintained, as in 1838 a visitor described how the ponds had become choked with weeds, the walks overtaken with rank grass and the trim parterres turned into pasture for cattle. The bathhouse at the end of the garden had fallen into disuse - the doors broken down, the Page 38 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Monks Walk Garden

Herb garden at Erasmus Darwin House

windows stolen, the fountain choked with weeds and the dressing room used as a sheep pen.

Despite a late nineteenth century renovation by Albert Worthington, who erected a commemorative stone inscribed with the words, ‘This stone marks the site of the Ancient Bathhouse purchased by Dr Erasmus Darwin of Lichfield and his son Erasmus Darwin the Younger from Thomas Weld of Lulworth Castle, Dorset, Esq. In the 20th year of the reign of King George III. The Bath was restored (with the original materials) by Albert Octavius Worthington at Maple Hayes, in the 53rd year of the reign of Queen Victoria’; very little is thought to remain today, although the name ‘Darwin’s Bath’ still appears on maps.

The site is not accessible by the public but those looking for botanic inspiration can visit the recreated herb garden at Erasmus Darwin’s former home on Beacon Street John Saville’s Garden.

Darwin’s was not the only Botanic Garden in the vicinity. Near to Stow Pool, in the grounds of Parchment House (where in the previous century, Samuel Johnson’s father had a parchment factory), John Saville, a vicar choral at the Cathedral created a garden, said to contain ‘above seven hundred specimens of rare and elegant plants, well worthy the notice of the curious’. Anna Seward said of her close friend’s hobby, ‘Mr S is engrossed by attendance upon at least two thousand rare plants and flowers, so that his friends lose many hours each week of his company...but

his fame as a botanist flies far. On the side of Johnson’s famous gigantic willow and in the bosom of that pretty valley which slopes from the east end of our Cathedral, lies his little garden’. A cold bath was also associated with this site, built by the Rev. James Falconer.

Museum Gardens A statue of Dr Darwin now sits at the entrance to another garden – the Museum Gardens at Beacon Park, created in 1859 to provide a suitable setting for the Free Library and Museum, now used as the Registry Office. Another statue depicts Edward VII, presented by Robert Bridgeman to mark his year as the Sheriff of Lichfield in 1908, and rededicated earlier this year by Princess Anne.

There is also a memorial to Captain Smith of the Titanic which the town of Hanley claims belongs to them from time to time! Two guns from the Crimean and First World Wars (the latter said to have been captured by the 2nd battalion of the South Staffordshire Regiment) were on display in the gardens but were sold to local metal merchant E A Barnes and Son as scrap iron during the Second World War. Lichfield Flower Show During the early twentieth century, one of the most popular events held in the Museum Gardens was the Lichfield Floral & Horticultural Society Show. Held on the August Bank Holiday each year, visitors from all across the Midlands came to see the exhibits of cut flowers, table decorations, and fruit and vegetables, and to be entertained by local bands, variety acts and firework

GazetteHeritage displays. Many of the exhibits came from the gardens of the local gentry some of the exhibitors at the 1920 show included Sir Robert Peel and Burton brewer (and bath restorer!), Albert Octavius Worthington.

However, there were sections for those who didn’t have access to professional gardeners and heated greenhouses including a ‘Special Military and Cottagers Class’ for soldiers and cottagers whose rent didn’t exceed £12 and a prize for the best Children’s Wild Flower decoration. By 1921 a ‘Bee and Honey Section’ had also been introduced.

Friary Gardens.

One of the regular exhibitors and prize winners at the Lichfield Show was Sir Richard Powell Cooper, who also donated the four lions around Chancellor Law’s fountain in the Museum Gardens. In 1920, his son Richard Ashmole Cooper, Walsall MP between 1910 and 1922, bought the Friary estate and donated it to the City of Lichfield for the ‘permanent use and benefit of the citizens’. This gift led to the creation of a public garden on the site of the Franciscan Friary.

Museum Gardens, Beacon Park

Now designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument, it was nicknamed ‘Councillor Moseley’s Graveyard’, after Thomas Moseley secured permission to excavate the site in the 1930s, uncovering several skeletons and other archaeological remains. Part of the north wall of the nave still stands and slabs show the layout of some of the Friary’s other buildings, although their accuracy has been brought into question by later archaeological evaluations.

Another controversial feature is the portico at the entrance to the site, with many discussions regarding its suitability for the site and its origins taking place over the years. It’s generally believed that the portico came to Lichfield from Shenstone Court, home of the Cooper family. However, an article published in the Lichfield Mercury in 1947 gives further details of the portico’s provenance, stating that it had originated as a garden feature at Fisherwick Hall and had also been used at Moor Hall in Sutton Coldfield prior to Shenstone Court.

Portico from Shenstone Court

Monks Walk.

Monks Walk, tucked away behind the library, has the air of a secret garden. In 1949, pupils at the Friary Girls School, which occupied the site at the time, established a gardening club to maintain this part of the former Friary estate. However, the school moved to its new site on Eastern Avenue in the 1980s and by 2003 the garden had become a neglected and virtually abandoned jungle. With grants from local organisations and the help of senior students from Queens Croft School, the Monks Walk restoration group have gradually bought the garden back to life. With wild garlic and magnolia flowering in the spring and 18th and 19th century style herbaceous borders flowering in summer, Monks Walk is now one of the loveliest places in the City.

Paradise may have been lost in some parts of Lichfield, but it has certainly been regained in others.

Sources The Gentleman's Magazine (London, England), Volume 58 The Gardener's Magazine, Volume 14, John Claudius Loudon The Genius of Erasmus Darwin edited by Christopher Upham Murray Smith, Robert Arnott A Short Account of the City and Close of Lichfield by Thomas George Lomax, William Newling www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk British Bee Journal, Volume 49 The History and Antiquities of the Church and City of Lichfield by Thomas Harwood Lichfield: Social and cultural activities, A History of the county of Stafford: Volume 14 Lichfield 1990 Townships: Burntwood, A History of the county of Stafford: Volume 14 Lichfield 1990 Lichfield Mercury Archive Information on Monks Walk courtesy of Lorna Bushell, Monks Walk Restoriation Group

Public garden at site of former Franciscan Friary.

Plaque commemorating the gift of the Friary estate by Sir R A Cooper

Page 39

GazetteHeritage

City Arcade becomes 50 years old Fifty years ago this summer the business F.Garratt known to all as Garratt’s Bakery was lost to the people of Lichfield. I don’t known the reason for the business closing. Outwardly the business looked like a flourishing affair with a huge attractive shop 12-16 Market Street serving afternoon teas and fancies, and retailing their own cakes, pork pies and bread made on the premises. The advert below recalls that not only did they dispense corn and flour, they sold cattle, game, poultry, horse and dog, although it’s not clear whether that was to eat or for feed!

City Arcade stretches through from Market Street through to Bore Street and the arcade development footprint is the size of the old bakery and shop. The manufacturing end of the business opened out from wooden gates in Bore Street through which deliveries and despatch of flour laden horse drawn carts, lads on cycles and later lorries and vans would come and go. Maybe the logistics, staffing and upkeep of such a building were overwhelming?

Either way the premises came down in1963 (The same year the old Birmingham Bull Ring was demolished) to make way for a new development of more than a dozen new shops in brick and concrete (a material all the rage in the 1960s), and by July 1964 the first of these were being opened. The architects were Mason Richards of Wolverhampton and the

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developers were Bernard Sunley Investment Trust. Above the entrances were two pre-cast pierced concrete architectural screens by Stockport artist Alan Boyson (more of that in a later issue).

The bright new state-of-the-art building with full ceiling to floor windows was, and remains one of the few places in the city for shoppers to shelter from the rain in a

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covered area. Unfortunately, City Arcade like almost everywhere has not avoided the ravages of this five long years of recession.

Still housing some fine retailers, let it be hoped that very soon it returns to a full complement of busy premises.

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Page 40 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Bill from F Garratt c. 1918 (c, Heritage Collection)

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Market Street c 1985 (c.Heritage Collection)

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Bore Street, c. 1985 (courtesy Lesley Bushell)

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llec e Co

tion

F Garratt, 12-16 Market Street c 1925 (Heritage Collection)

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

GREAT HIRE FOR A SPECIAL EVENT Memories of a great event stay with you forever. Whether it’s a top hat & tails event, a black tie affair or a highland wedding then a visit to Jon Paul Menswear is the ‘one-stop’ shop for everything you need to hire.

You can hire the whole ensemble from tip to toe – hat to shoes, and everything in-between.

The shop has now moved from Lichfield to larger premises in Albion Street in Rugeley. Jon Paul has been a menswear hire shop for nearly 20 years and has a wealth of experience with a large stock of reasonably priced hire to meet every need.

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We offer a free initial consultation and Stuart Smallman our specialist Family Solicitor offers Fixed Fees for certain family matters. For all other matters we will offer an estimate of costs at the earliest opportunity. In November we will take part in Will Aid (last year we raised nearly £4,500.00 for charity).

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Page 41

Gazette Woman

By Joss Musgrove Knibb

Orange, the hottest shade of summer 2013 covers a remarkably wide range of shades, from the earthy tones of umber or pumpkin, through corals (pale or vibrant) and on to fruity tangerine and satsuma.

It’s a delicious colour that offers enough variation to suit most skin tones, and as usual Lichfield retailers are bang on trend with lots of gorgeous orange loveliness available both in store and online, enough to satisfy the sweetest tooth!

Stockists - Bijou at No 15, 15 Tamworth Street, Lichfield, WS13 6JP www.bijou15.co.uk • Dame Olivers, 19 Dam Street, Lichfield, WS13 6AE • Cure, 31 Bore Street, Lichfield, WS13 6LZ www.cureuk.com • A Touch of Class, 15 Market Street, Lichfield, WS13 6JX, www.finestlingerie.com • New Look, 21-23 Market Street, Lichfield, WS13 6JX www.newlook.com • Dorothy Perkins 35-37 Market Street, Limited orange Lichfield WS13 6LA www.dorothyperkins.com • Debenhams, patent pointed Three Spires Shopping Centre, Bakers Lane, WS13 6JF court shoes www.debenhams.com • The Body Shop, Three Spires £44.99, available Shopping Centre, Bakers Lane, WS13 6NF from www.thebodyshop.co.uk

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Darling orange paloma dress £55, available from debenhams.com

Project D Tinkerbell dress £595, available from cureuk.com

Izabel ochre kimono blouse £20, available from dorothyperkins.com

Emperor hand crafted necklace £12, Morocco inspired belt £18.50, available from Dame Olivers Bird viscose scarf £22, available from Bijou at No. 15.

Max & Ellie fascinator £12.50, Max & Ellie clutch £19.50, available from Dame Olivers.

Abstract bangle £10, orange earrings £5, available from Dame Olivers

Satsuma soap £2, Satsuma shower gel £2, Be my Clemantine Colour Crush eyeshadow £7, Satsuma Clemantine eau de toilette £8.50, Honey Bronze lipgloss £9.50, available instore and online at thebodyshop.co.uk

Lisbeth Dahl coral gold pattern umbrella £24.50, available from Bijou at No 15.

Bestform mango bra £29.00, briefs £12, available from Touch of Class.

Strawberry Skin

Competition T

he Body Shop are known for their use of ethically sourced ingredients in their products, and the range includes a great selection of hand treatments to keep your skin silky smooth this summer.

All too often the skin of our hands is neglected and in need of protection and re-hydration. The Body Shop’s hand care range helps restore moisture to dry hands, protecting delicate skin and strengthening nails. They have a variety of treatments for hands with moisturising creams, intensive hand butters and hand oils for longlasting hydration. For more information go to www.thebodyshop.co.uk We’ve been presented with a fabulous ‘Strawberry Shower, Scrub and Soften Collection’ gift set by the lovely people at The Body Shop, Lichfield that we’re giving away in our Strawberry Skin competition.

The set includes: Strawberry Shower Gel, Strawberry Body Butter, Strawberry Born Lippy moisturising lip treatment, Strawberry Soap, Strawberry Body Polish and an Exfoliating Bath Lily.

To be in with a chance of winning just answer the following question.

Q. The French word for ‘Strawberry’ is A. Fraise B. Orange C. Banane

Just send your name, answer and contact details to Strawberry Skin Competition, PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk by competition closing date of Thursday 15th August. One entry per household please, duplicates will be disqualified. Good luck!

Page 43

GazetteWoman

Perfectly polished for summer?

Summer Beauty By Joss Musgrove Knibb

I

met a lady recently who was, she informed me, in her 80’s. As we talked I couldn’t help notice that she had perfectly polished nails and simply exuded glamour. It turned out that she had enjoyed a very interesting life, and her poise and elegance were reflected in her hands.

Hands say so much, we communicate with them and they’re often, I think, a statement about where we are in our lives (rushed mums often have little time for pampering) and how much we think we deserve. How we choose to decorate (or not) our nails says a lot about who we are, our status, even our character. If you haven’t bothered with your nails for a while, it’s amazing how good a glossy set can make you feel.

Perfectly Polished nails at home So, you don’t want to go to a salon and would rather look after your nails at home. First things first, what state of health are they in? Are they bitten, ridged or split? Poor quality nails can be an indication of a lack of nutrients in the diet. There are some great supplements you can take that will improve the state of your nails and thicken your hair at the same time.

The current fashion is for shorter nails. They look fresh and contemporary and are less likely to break. If your cuticles are a problem, most chemists sell a good range of cuticle creams. They can be tidied at home but I would caution against any trimming, it could go disastrously and painfully wrong.

If your nails are ridged, you can buy ridge-filling treatments that are applied like a regular polish, and nail strengthening treatments are also available.

When reshaping your nails, most people use a nail file.

Just remember to only file your nails in one direction as the sawing motion (that most of us use) can weaken and split nail edges.

In order to avoid discolouration of the nail, apply a good undercoat before applying any colour. Untreated nails will absorb some of the pigment and stay stained until they grow out.

In recent years the colour palette of more affordable polishes has expanded and there are some beautiful shades available on the high street. Applying a clear topcoat will help your nails stay chip free.

If you want to ‘fake’ it up a little, acrylic nails that are applied with glue or adhesive tabs to the nails are fun and Full effective. acrylic nails that

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are glued straight on to your clean nail will give you a solid finish, but be very careful, the glue used is somewhat akin to superglue and is very adhesive to skin as well as nails.

Acrylic nails can be purchased in many finishes including nude, French manicure, pre coloured (as if they have been professionally painted), glitter or transfer, the list is pretty endless. If you buy them untreated, you can paint them in any shade that you wish. If applied correctly they should last for up to a week. When you want to remove them, soak them off at home, don’t be tempted to peel them off, it will damage your natural nail underneath.

Acrylic tips (that just cover the tip of your nail) are also available) If you want to aceive a French manicure effect at home, there are home treatments you can buy to help you. These include transfer white tips and tip stencils. It will require a steady hand but can achieve great results.

Perfectly Polished at the salon I love having my nails manicured. It is half an hour of sheer relaxation with the added bonus of gorgeous hands at the end of it.

We have a great selection of salons in Lichfield, some who specialise in just nails, and some that are found within larger hair or beauty salons. If you’re not used to visiting a nail technician, some of the terms used can be confusing.

Here, I list a few of the most popular.

Manicure This is usually a treatment of your natural nail. Many manicures include a massage of your lower arms and hands, and involve moisturising treatments of the nail before it is cut, re-shaped and the cuticles tidied and sometimes treated. Strengthening undercoats can then be applied along with your choice of colour from the range on offer. These will be salon quality ranges that include subtle graduations in colour, allowing you to pick a pink (for instance) that instantly improves the colour and tone of the skin of your hands. Many manicures also include a layer of strengthening topcoat.

French manicure This treatment is to all intents and purposes as above, but it will include the application of a white tip. This tip can be created by hand or with an airbrush to give a precise curve to the end of your nail.

Acrylic nail extensions Either tip or full nail, these are glued directly on to your natural nail and come in a range of finishes and colours.

They offer an instant and glamorous effect.

Gel powder nail extensions Gel powder is magical stuff, your nail technician mixes powder and liquid to form a gel that has an almost silicon like texture. She will then apply this to your nail where it hardens creating a glass like finish. This is a popular way of creating a French manicure finish. As your nail grows, the gel can be re-applied.

UV Gel Gel polish is a type of colour treatment where an undercoat, gel colour, and topcoat is applied to the nail and ‘set’ in two minutes under a small UV lamp. This gives a diamond hard finish.

New generation gel polish As above, but these gel treatments ‘set’ under LED lamps in 30 seconds.

Silk nail extensions This is the application of thin layers of silk soaked in resin to give a perfect and flexible finish to your nail.

Air brushing Airbrushing creates a precise yet natural finish, it can also be used to blend stunning colour effects.

Nail art This covers the direct application of gems, glitter, foils and other designs to your nails. This is a remarkable process and creates remarkable effects.

Nail piercing This is where the nail is pierced to allow a small charm to be attached.

Many salons use different ranges made by different manufacturers. Great names to look out for are Jessica, OPI, Orly, Shellac, BioSculpture Gel, Gelish, Belissima and Calgel.

Images: viamodasalon.com, gelnailinformation.org, topnews.ae

GazetteWoman

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GazetteNEWS

T

St Mary’s to get a £1.2m makeover

he St Mary’s Centre is a community facility in the heart of Lichfield that houses a range of heritage activities within a Grade II listed building. Plans for its re-development as a result of a National Lottery grant are already unfolding.

David Wallington, President of registered charity ‘Guild of St Mary’s’ told the Lichfield Gazette about audacious plans for the re-development of the whole complex, which has recently also become home to the Lichfield Tourist Information Centre in the Marketplace: “It is a happy marriage with the TIC as they can increase our footfall by up to 40,000 visitors a year. Short term we have had a move around to accommodate them, but they are very much part of our long term plans for the centre.”

Work on the centre will be done in three phases.

Phase one: The Tourist Information Centre moves in.

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Phase two: Late Summer. ‘New feel’ creation including new improved working space for the TIC. Opening up of front of gift shop to give additional space. Creation of café with new service area and fresh décor.

Phase Three: A Strip back to the original building. The £1.2m building program should be concluded by summer next year. A move to a contemporary layout which will include improved glass entrances and opening up of ceilings which were of 1970s construction. Many of the internal offices will be removed on the north side; relocation of the kitchen; move of the Heritage Collection of photographs to the ground floor to where the café counter is now; enlarging of the over footage with a new third level which will have bell tower balcony with views to lower floors; creation of more direct daylight and a complete re-design of the scheme of the Heritage Exhibition.

David Wallington concluded: “This is a very exciting and bold scheme. Our partner companies have been marvellous. The overall project will improve the long-term viability of the centre, give improved access to the historical artefacts of this historic city as well as give greater access for the public to more of the building.

“We want to tell stories of the city not currently being told, stories like the Lichfield Martyrdoms and the Last Slave Auction in England. We want to be even more educational and add a study centre.

“Every one who knows St Mary’s will be familiar with our very successful café and we are looking to improve that as well as manage the whole building to enable us to provide Church services, weddings and even cater for receptions. We are looking at our whole commercial offering for meetings, conferences, retail and more.

“At St Mary’s we are very mindful that we should work with other attractions in the City rather than compete with the other centres and museums, to enhance the overall visitor experience.”

It is understood that the departure of the Tourist Information Centre from the Garrick Theatre has allowed it to utilise the foyer space for a cloakroom and to re-site the stage door.

What’s on

Dining Ou

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YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD MONTHLY PREVIEW BY PHIL PREECE I know we’re all currently thinking about getting our buckets and spades out or at least planning a long snooze on a sun-lounger, but those brave people who bring us live entertainment can’t afford to snooze for very long – they’ve got the new season’s entertainment to put in place.

On the amateur front the new season kicks off in September locally with Different Animal’s The Elephant Man in the Garrick Studio from 17 to the 21 September, following their last highly successful run which included an unforgettable production of The Thirty Nine Steps.

Wednesday 25th September sees The Reduced Shakespeare Co. bringing The Complete Works of William Shakespeare to the Garrick main house and for one night only on the 26th September the girls are back with Eve Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues.

Friday 27th Legends of Swing Tommy and Johnny bring the music of the swing era from Bing to Buble to the main house while Gypsy Fire on Saturday 28th bring their jazzy sound of guitar, violin and double bass straight from the Albert Hall. See you there!

If you’ve got any shows amateur or professional in Lichfield and around the villages you’d like to tell everybody about, let me know on caz@lichfieldgazette.co.uk. Enjoy your break.

“AN EVENING WITH ADRIAN JACKSON” Chief Executive and Artistic Director The Lichfield Garrick Theatre MONDAY 7 OCTOBER 2013 7.30pm.

Main Auditorium of The Theatre The evening will include a backstage tour THIS IS A FREE EVENT, BUT ENTRANCE BY TICKET ONLY AVAILABLE FROM THE LICHFIELD GARRICK BOX OFFICE

Enjoy the finest Cantonese and Chinese cuisine in Lichfield

The only Chinese Restaurant with alfresco dining!

To book or to discuss your requirements, please telephone 01543 251144.

See our comprehensive website www.rubychineserestaurant.co.uk

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YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

From the Head Chef’s Table

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very month Netherstowe House's Head Chef will share with you a tried and tested recipe from the award winning restaurant to try at home.

These recipes have been simplified a little to make them easier to cook at home but there is no loss of flavour. We love them and we hope you enjoy eating and making them as much as we do.

To reserve a table at Netherstowe House restaurant call 01543 254 270 or visit: www.netherstowehouse.com

Iced White Chocolate Parfait with Fresh Raspberries.

You will need: 150g White Chocolate – Melted then cooled slightly 500ml Double Cream – Softly Whipped 100ml Water 115g Sugar 6 Egg Yolks 1 Punnet of Fresh, Local Raspberries Method: For the Parfait, bring the water and sugar to the boil in a thick bottomed saucepan and boil until the liquid reaches 118ºc.

Whisk the egg yolks in a clean bowl and slowly pour on the boiling sugar, constantly whisking.

Whisk this mixture for roughly 10 minutes until the mix has cooled completely and is light and fluffy.

At this point, fold in the white chocolate gently and then the whipped cream. Once thoroughly mixed transfer into individual portions and put in the freezer for 4-6 hours until set.

The picture is how we serve this delicious dessert; this consists of freeze-dried raspberries, shortbread crumb and raspberry coulis.

Perfect to cool you down on a summers day!

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YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

Lichfield Food Festival 31st August to 1st September

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ocal and regional chefs Simon Smith will be cooking up a storm this summer at Lichfield’s second Food Festival, which will arrive at the city on Saturday 31st August and Sunday 1st September 2013.

Following the success of 2012’s inaugural event, Lichfield Food Festival is back by popular demand and this year the focus will be on local produce and local cooking talent.

Organised by the Lichfield Garrick and Lichfield District Council - in association with Lichfield City Council, Lichfield Arts, and the local chef and private caterer, Simon Smith – 2013’s event promises to be even bigger and better.

Adrian Jackson, Lichfield Garrick’s Chief Executive & Artistic Director, commented: “Our first ever Food Festival went better than we could have hoped with thousands of people coming to Lichfield over the festival weekend to get thoroughly immersed in good food and drink. We’re hoping to attract even more foodies this year, with events across the city and look forward to welcoming everyone to Lichfield Food Festival 2013.”

Lichfield Food Festival will feature all the favourites from last year, including ten free cookery demonstrations in Lichfield Garrick’s Food Theatre and local food producers displaying in the theatre’s Food Studio.

Lichfield Arts’ Best of Local Brewers event in the Guildhall’s Guildroom will offer a wide variety of local beers, lagers and ciders over the festival weekend. On Saturday, there will also be the chance to hear from brewers in Meet the Brewers sessions.

Lichfield City Council’s special Farmers’ Market has been extended over the whole festival weekend. On Saturday, food stalls in surrounding streets will complement the General Market on Market Square, and on Sunday stalls offering local food, handmade craft and bespoke lines will be on Market Square and surrounding streets.

Tippers Lichfield branch on Europa Way is once again getting involved with celebrity chef, Rachel Green from Kill it! Cook it! Eat it! presenting free cookery demonstrations throughout the day on Saturday 31 August. Free tickets can be booked at www.lichfieldgarrick.com or by calling the Box Office on 01543 412121.

Two competitions are running over the festival weekend. On Saturday, in the Fruity Tooty competition, Emporium art gallery will be asking people of all ages to put their creative skills to the test and enter carved creations using food. Then on Sunday amateur bakers can get involved by entering the Cupcake Competition at Three Spires Shopping Centre, which is sponsored by The Kitchen Shop.

The Kitchen Shop is also hosting free equipment demonstrations on Saturday, including KitchenAid and Zwilling J.A. Henckels Knives.

After going down a storm last year, the Wine & Ale Trail and the World Food Trail are running over the two-day festival. This will see local eateries across the city offering diners a set menu for £10, and bars and pubs offering a glass of wine or ale for £3.

If you are a local eating or drinking establishment and would like to be involved in either of the trails, you can access more information, register to be on either of the trails, and download window posters and more at www.lichfieldfood.co.uk

To see the full programme, find out how to enter the competitions and more, please visit www.lichfieldfood.co.uk

£10 Menu Trail and the Ale & Wine Trail.

For the £10 menu trail we are running 3 offers: A carvery lunch or dinner for £10 A main course, dessert and coffee from the bar menu A Celebration Afternoon Tea

If you have a community or fund raising 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.

Lichfield Farmers' Market 9.00am to 3.00pm at Lichfield Market Square. The markets boast a fantastic range of beautiful stalls, selling wholesome locally-produced food and other goods, including an excellent choice of hand-made arts and crafts.

Sat 27 July Georgian Gems 7.00pm at Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. Lichfield was home to many famous people and this tour uncovers the lives of these characters. £3.

Fri 2 Aug Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tue 30 July for details.

Sun 28 July Alrewas Village Tour 2.00pm at the car park of Jaipur Indian Restaurant. A walking tour around this pretty and historic village. The tour finishes with a cream tea at the charming George and Dragon public house. £6 per person, includes a cup of tea or coffee and scone at the George and Dragon public house. Tickets must be booked in advance from the Tourist Information Centre, Lichfield.

Tue 30 July Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals 1.00pm to 1.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. When was the last time you took a moment for yourself? The cathedral invites you to come and escape your mobile ringing, the emails pinging and the general noise of our busy lives, and enjoy some live music over a well-deserved lunch break. Whether you enjoy the soothing notes of the clarinet, the enchanting sounds of a soprano or the thunderous power of the mighty Lichfield Cathedral organ, there will be a programme to suit you.

Fashion Show 7.00pm at Holy Cross Parish Hall. An opportunity to buy high street fashion at budget prices.

Enjoy a complementary glass of wine or a soft drink whilst you browse. £5.

Thu 1 Aug Moth Recording Morning 8.30am to 10.00am at Beacon Park. Join us first thing to try and ID moths caught in the trap from the night before. The presence of moths cannot be guaranteed, therefore please ring 07931 891086 from 8am to confirm.

Free event.

Sat 3 Aug Specialist Plant Fair 10.00am to 4.30pm at The NMA. Popular plant fair featuring many highly respected specialist nurseries with a great range of perennials, shrubs, trees, rare species and old heritage varieties. FREE ENTRY for Plant Fair & Arboretum (pay & display car park) Library Tour 10.30am to 11.30am at Lichfield Cathedral. Explore the historic books and illuminated manuscripts housed in the Cathedral's private library, built in 1249. A rare glimpse of our incredible collection hidden above the Chapter House.

Tickets are priced at £9.00 per person. To book call 01543 306150 or call in to No. 9 The Close.

Sun 4 – Sat 17 Aug Nature's Hide and Seek - Leaf Hunt Trail 9.00am to 5.00pm at The NMA. Collect a Nature’s Hide and Seek back pack from the Welcome Area to discover and learn about the trees of the Arboretum. Back packs will include a fun trail and a selection of mini activities to complete. Individual trail sheets can also be collected from the Welcome Area. £5 including a £2.50 refundable deposit, individual trails £1.50 each.

Sun 4 Aug Lichfield Vintage Fair and Flea Market 10.00am to 3.00pm at the Guildhall. Absolutely Vintage Darling are pleased to bring a vintage fair and flea market to the historic town of Lichfield.

Clothing, memorabilia, china, glass, jewellery, home wares, kitchenalia and much much more!

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YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD Cycle Rides for All 11.00am at Freedom Cycles, Lichfield Bus Station. Join in the led 12 mile cycle ride for all members of the family to Fradley Junction for lunch and back again. A lunch stop is included in the ride so bring along a picnic lunch and some water. Free event.

Mon 5 Aug Family Discovery Day At Staffordshire Regiment Museum. Looking for a family event with a difference? Our uniformed guides will take you on a detailed tour of what life was like for British servicemen during the two World Wars.

Parents and children will get the opportunity to try on some uniforms as well as handling weapons and equipment from the time. There are three sessions available at 10.00am, 11.00 am and 12 noon. £3 adults, £2 concessions, £6 family ticket (up to 2 adults and 3 children) Tue 6 Aug Neaten and Natter 11.00am to 1.00pm at Beacon Park. Monthly volunteer event (1st Tuesday of the month except January). Make friends and help to keep Beacon Park beautiful. Tasks include litter picking and weeding.

Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tue 30 July for details.

Wed 7 Aug Wild Wednesdays At RSPB Middleton Lakes. A different theme each week for families to come along and enjoy the outdoors. Free event.

Subterranean Hibernacula Creation 10.30am to 3.00pm at Beacon Park. Our Countryside & Parks Conservation Group (or CPCG for short) plays an important role in local nature conservation and we're always looking for volunteers to help out. The CPCG are going to build new underground hibernacula for amphibians, reptiles and small mammals in Beacon Park’s woodland. This will help to attract even more wildlife to this beautiful area. To book your free place, please contact the countryside team by going to www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/cpcg.

Directions: Beacon Park, Lichfield, meet by the Swinfen Broun Pavilion in the middle of the park. Closest car parks are Bunker’s Hill (WS13 6RA); Greenhough Road (WS13 7AU) and Shaw Lane (WS13 8HN). Please note: parking charges do apply but can be

reclaimed.

National Play Day 10.30am to 3.00ppm at RSPB Middleton Lakes. This national event is held to encourage children to play safely outdoors.

Hands-on activities.

Free event.

Wacky Wednesdays 11.30am to 1.00pm or 2.00pm to 3.30pm at Erasmus Darwin House. Themed fun summer crafts for children aged 5-12.

Something different every week! £2 per child, booking advisable.

Thu 8 Aug Summer Fun at Sam's House 10.30am to 1.30pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum.

Drop-in arts and crafts fun and games throughout the holiday.

A different activity every week. £2.

Thu 8 – Sat 10 Aug Annual Big Second Hand Book Sale 10.00am to 2.00pm at the Methodist Church Centre on Tamworth St, Lichfield. Browse through up to 4000 books and there will be a jewellery stall on the Saturday. Book donations welcome, please contact Don Male on 01543 252653.

Lichfield’s Fake Festival lines up local talent

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aking place on Saturday 10th August, Lichfield Fake Festival will be kicking off with some of the greatest local musical talent, hand-picked by the Fake Festivals team.

From 1.00pm onwards, festival goers will be able to catch the selected five local support acts on the main stage inside the huge Fake Festivals marquee.

Taking to the stage first will be an exciting local covers band, Rebel Creek. Next up will be Nuclear Minogue with their philosophy of ‘play it like you stole it’. From Polesworth, On Standby are a great covers band that will be performing a wide range of covers from The Killers and Kings of Leon, to Coldplay, The Clash and Stereophonics. The Dandy Lions will be bringing something a little different to the festival with their eclectic taste in music from the 60’ and 70’s. The Decade Runners are a rock band with an impressively developed sound of forceful guitar riffs.

Tickets are available from www.fakefestivals.co.uk and other venues around Lichfield. Go to website for further details.

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Fri 9 & Sat 10 Aug Bushwacked - The Stephen Sutton Story From midday Fri 9 Aug at Big Field. Party for a good cause! In aid of the Teenage Cancer Trust. Bikes, beer, bands and camping. Food, trade stalls, kids entertainment, prize giving and all the usual stuff. Enjoy live bands in the evenings, a drink at the bar, camping and delicious food from local vendors. It's set to be a fantastic weekend to raise lots of money for the teenage cancer trust. Anyone wishing to attend as a stallholder please contact Ben on 07790 017224 go to or www.hairybushbikebuilders.co. uk for more information.

Fri 9 Aug Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tue 30 July for details.

Sat 10 Aug Lichfield Wildlife Group 2.00 pm at Washlands Car Park. Guided Walk at Burton Washlands led by Lawrence Oates. For more information contact Ray Allen. 01543 251654 Lichfield Fake Festival 12 noon to 11.30pm at Beacon Park. Featuring tributes to Kasabian, Blondie & The Stone Roses plus five local support bands. All held inside the Fake Festivals marquee with a licensed bar and fenced food and entertainment garden area.

There will be a licensed bar at the Festival serving an array of drinks, including soft drinks.

There will also be food stands at the event serving food such as burger and chips, hot potatoes, vegetarian, Indian, pizza, from 1pm. Tickets available from Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. Go to www.fakefestivals.co.uk for more ticket information.

Sun 11 Aug Alrewas Village Tour At the car park of Jaipur Indian Restaurant. See Sun 28 July for details.

Mon 12 Aug Family Discovery Day At Staffordshire Regiment Museum. See Mon 5 Aug for details.

Tue 13 Aug Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tue 30 July for details.

Wed 14 Aug Wild Wednesdays At RSPB Middleton Lakes. See Wed 7 Aug for details.

Beacon Park Fun Day 11.00am to 3.00pm at Beacon Park. Join in the fun with many exciting games, sports and outdoor activities for all ages.

Free event.

Wacky Wednesdays At Erasmus Darwin House.

See Wed 7 Aug for details.

Heritage Trail 7.00pm at Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. Enjoy Lichfield's rich and varied history on this heritage tour of the city. £3.

Library Tour At Lichfield Cathedral. See Sat 3 Aug for details.

Wed 15 Aug Summer Fun at Sam's House At Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. See Thu 8 Aug for details.

Blood Thirsty Lichfield 2.00pm at Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. 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. £1.65 Fri 16 Aug Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tue 30 July for details.

60s Disco & BBQ 7.30pm to 10.30pm at Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. If you remember the famous Wednesday night discos at Moor Hall in the 60s (or even if you don’t!), join us to relive the fun of the flower power decade with a 60s disco and barbeque.

Tickets are £23 per person or £99 for 2 to include an overnight stay. 60s fancy dress is optional!

Please call 0121 308 3751 to book.

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD Welcome to the all new Ruby Express in Lichfield City Centre We are part of the Ruby Cantonese & Chinese family here in Lichfield and our food is prepared by the very same chefs! Based in Lichfield City Centre, our mission is to provide restaurant quality food at high speed and low prices. All food comes in our awesome noodle boxes as seen on TV shows such as The Big Bang Theory!

The Ruby Express was founded by Wai-Lee Ho 3rd Generation Restaurateur, whose family have been serving Lichfield with the highest quality oriental food for over 27 years.

Due to popular demand, we are developing a pre-order system.

Soon you will be able to place your order the day before, ready to collect at your chosen time between 11.30am - 3.30pm Mon - Fri, and Sat 11.30am - 5pm Choose from some of your favourite Chinese dishes:- sweet & sour chicken, beef with green peppers & black bean sauce, chicken curry - and many more. The Ruby Express menu changes every week so there are plenty of alternatives to appeal to everyone.

You have probably seen the American style Noodle Boxes around the city - they are from The Ruby Express.

Just pop in with your Lichfield Gazette when you call in for your order and get a bag of prawn crackers FREE! “Our food is cooked by the same chefs found at the Ruby Cantonese & Chinese Restaurant, on St John Street Lichfield.

Restaurant quality food at take out prices!”

Find out more from our website:www.ruby-express.com

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YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD Sat 17 Aug Heritage Trail 2.00pm at Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. See Wed 14 Aug for details.

Romancing The Home introduces its summer craft fayre taking place at the Guild Hall in Lichfield on 17 August.

Starting at 10am and ending at 3pm, it's an event that promises beautifully designed gifts for you, your loved ones, or your home.

With crafts ranging from jewellery and homemade wooden toy boxes, to plaques and many other gorgeous items, you're sure to walk away with a smile.

Please visit us at www.romancingthehome.co.uk for more information, or send us an email atinfo@romancingthehome.co. uk Lichfield Craft Fayre 10.00am to 3.00pm at the Guildhall. Craft goods available to purchase include plaques, photo frames, handmade jewellery, knitted items and glass gifts for the home. Please pop along to see us, and have a cup of tea and slice of cake whilst browsing the beautiful and unique gifts that are available for sale.

Exhibition in the garden.

11.45 am – 5pm, Saturday 17th August and Sunday 18th August. An exhibition of artworks by Dennis Harper, Pat & Bob Pagett, Mathe Shepheard and John Wood in the gardens of 10 Fotherley Road, Shenstone, Lichfield, WS14 0NJ. Sun 18 Aug – Sun 1 Sept Nature's Hide and Seek - Five Senses Trail 9.00am to 5.00pm at the NMA. See Sun 4 to Sat 17 Aug for details.

Sun 18 Aug Family Sunday Lunch 12.45pm to 3.00pm at Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. A delicious Sunday lunch with all the family in the Charter Suite. The menu includes a choice of starters and desserts and for main course there’s a fabulous hot and cold buffet featuring three mouth-watering roasts with all the trimmings plus an array of cold meats and salads - there’s something to tempt every member of the family! During lunch our balloon modeller will visit the tables and when lunch is finished there’s a fun Punch and Judy show for the children so parents can sit back and relax - now that’s the way to do it! £21.50 per adult, £15 per child up to 12 years. Booking is

essential. To book please call 0121 308 3751.

Mon 19 Aug Family Discovery Day At Staffordshire Regiment Museum. See Mon 5 Aug for details.

Tue 20 Aug Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tues 30 July for details.

Art Workshop 6.30pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Create striking paintings and drawings in the monthly mixed media workshops led by award winning artist Carole Collier.

Individual attention in small, friendly sessions with a different theme each month. Workshops take place on the third Tuesday of each month. £10 per session including all materials and refreshments.

Advance booking essential call 01543 264972.

Wed 21 Aug Wild Wednesdays At RSPB Middleton Lakes. See Wed 2 Aug for details.

Wacky Wednesdays At Erasmus Darwin House.

See Wed 2 Aug for details.

Lichfield Proms 2013

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tar Trek, Jerusalem, Summertime, and Nessun Dorma are just some of the musical treats in store for the audience at this September’s Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park.

The British Police Symphony Orchestra is busy practising, in readiness for this year’s free Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park, on Saturday 7 September.

The 65-piece orchestra will lead the main concert at 7.30pm. The conductor, Tom Hammond, will be joined on stage by Danny Mizon, an experienced compere. Together they will take concert-goers through the main programme on the night, introducing both traditional and modern classical music and show tunes. From Pomp and Circumstance No 4 and the Radetzky March, to Rule Britannia and Jerusalem, there is something for everyone.

Lichfield District Council’s free proms will also feature solos from the tenor Mitesh Khatri and proms newcomer - the soprano Sarah Ryan.

Lichfield Proms will start with pre-concert activities for children from 5.30pm, including inflatables and small fairground rides.

The City of Lichfield Concert Band is set to warm up the crowd from 6pm. The main concert, led

by The British Police Symphony Orchestra, will start at 7.30pm.

Following a patriotic sing-along and fireworks, the event will The British Police Symphony Orchestra draw to a close at around at Lichfield Proms 2012 9.45pm.

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Thu 22 Aug Summer Fun at Sam's House At Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. See Thu 8 Aug for details.

Fri 23 Aug Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tue 30 July for details.

Sat 24 Aug Walk to the Wall 2013 10.00am to 3.30pm at the NMA hosting its annual sponsored walk. Whether you are walking to remember someone special; to explore the 150 acres of woodland, gardens and over 250 memorials; or enjoy a family day out, Walk to the Wall offers something for everyone and is open to people of all ages and abilities and those walking individually or as part of a group. All trails start and finish at the Arboretum. You are also invited to enjoy a picnic on the grounds. You can bring your own or pre-order your picnic pack from the Arboretum. The Arboretum also welcomes walkers who wish to complete their own linear walk to the Arboretum on the day.

Throughout the afternoon there will be entertainment so bring all your friends and family along to meet you at the finishing line!

Registration for Walk to the Wall 2013 is now open. To download a registration form and for more information go to www.thenma.org.uk.

Fairy Walks in Beacon Park At Beacon Park. Hear the story of the park fairies then wander through the woodland. Fancy dress encouraged! 11am under 5 years. 1pm - over 5 years. £1 per child Library Tour At Lichfield Cathedral. See Sat 3 Aug for details.

Sat 24 Aug Lichfield Wildlife Group 8.00 pm at Fisherwick Fishing Lodge.Bat Walk at Fisherwick Lakes led by Julia Summerton.

SE Staffs Bat Group. For more information contact Ray Allen.

01543 251654 Mon 26 Aug Family Discovery Day At Staffordshire Regiment Museum. See Mon 5 Aug for details.

The Great Scarecrow Day 11.00am to 3.00pm at RSPB Middleton Lakes. Come along and help dress up your very own scarecrow. This is a great family activity and each year we have a whole lot of fun doing it.

Bring your own clothes or use ours. We'll supply everything you need to build a Worzel Gummidge worthy of your garden. Our volunteers will be on hand to help you if you've never made a scarecrow Bring along your before. granddad’s braces, your brother's jumper or your auntie's old handbag - all items of clothing will be used and you never know, you might win a prize for the best dressed scarecrow! Free event.

Tue 27 Aug Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tue 30 July for details.

Wed 28 Aug Wild Wednesdays At RSPB Middleton Lakes. See Wed 7 Aug for details.

Wacky Wednesdays At Erasmus Darwin House.

See Wed 7 Aug for details.

Thu 29 Aug Summer Fun at Sam's House At Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. See Thu 8 Aug for details.

Fri 30 Aug Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tue 30 July for details.

Sat 31 Aug – Sun 1 Sept Lichfield Food Festival At Lichfield Garrick and venues across Lichfield City. An annual celebration of all things gastronomic - with something to suit all tastes and budgets.

With free entry and featuring food stalls, an Ale and Wine Trail, a World Menu Trail, free cookery demonstrations, and celebrity chef shows, Lichfield Food is a food lover's delight!

See page 49 for more information.

World War Two Whittington in Wartime 10.00am to 4.00pm at Regiment Staffordshire Museum. Commemorating the men of Staffordshire Regiments

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD and Whittington’s contribution to the events of WW2. Visitor attractions include mock battles provided by ‘Living History’ groups representing British, US and German armed forces. Displays include SSAFA Forces Help and a Home Guard demonstration. £6 adults, £4 concessions, £15 family ticket (2 adults and 3 children) Sat 31 Aug In-Store Demos!

At The Kitchen Shop. As part of Lichfield's second Food Festival, the Kitchen Shop have invited a few of their suppliers to demonstrate their products in-store. 11.00am to 12.30pm - J.A. Zwilling Henckels Knives will be showing off knife skills. 12.30pm to 3.00 pm - KitchenAid will be showing off their iconic mixers and some of their attachments for you to try. There will be plenty of deals on the day! There will also be a stand at the Garrick Theatre on both Festival days showing off gadgets used during the chef demos!

For more information on the Festival go to www.lichfieldfood.co.uk.

Contact details for listed venues: Beacon Park – Lichfield WS13 6QZ. Tel: 01543 308869 Big Field - Where Chorley Rd meets Ogleyhay Rd, Burntwood WS7 2NU. Erasmus Darwin House - Beacon St, Lichfield WS13 7AD. Tel: 01543 262331

T

The George Hotel - Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel: 01543 414822 The Guildhall - Bore St, Lichfield WS13 6LU. Tel: 01543 262223 Holy Cross Parish Hall - Upper St John St, Lichfield WS14 9DX. Jaipur Indian Restaurant -Kings Bromley Rd, Alrewas DE13 7DB The Kitchen Shop – 5 Market St, Lichfield WS13 6JX. Tel: 01543 268602 Lichfield Cathedral - The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LD. Tel: 01543 306100 Lichfield Garrick Theatre - Castle Dyke, Lichfield WS13 6HR. Tel: 01543 412121 Lichfield Heritage Centre - St Mary's Centre, Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 255423 Lichfield Tourist Information Centre - St Mary's Heritage Centre, Market Square, Lichfield. Tel: 01543 412112 Moor Hall Hotel & Spa - Moor Hall Drive, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield B75 6LN National Memorial Arboretum – Croxall Rd, Alrewas DE13 7AR. Tel: 01283 792 333 RSPB Middleton Lakes - Bodymoor Heath Rd, Middleton Lakes, Nr Tamworth B78 2AE. Tel: 01827 259454 Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 264972 Staffordshire Regiment Museum Defence Medical Services, Lichfield WS14 9PY. Tel: 01543 434395 Wade Street Church Hall – Wade St, Lichfield WS13 6HL. Tel: 01543 262223

Open Day at Historic Roman Site 4th August

he Friends of Letocetum in conjunction with The National Trust and English Heritage will be again hosting what is becoming a very popular annual event at the Wall Roman site, Watling Street, Wall on Sunday 4th August between 11.00am and 4.00pm, entry to the event and Museum will be free of charge and volunteers will be on hand to guide and assist visitors. Come along and learn more about this major Roman settlement situated at the crossroads of two of the most important roads at the centre of Roman Britain and just over a mile from where the most important Saxon find of recent times was discovered ‘The Staffordshire Hoard’.

The site Museum is open and manned by the volunteers on the last weekend of each month and Bank Holidays between March and October. It is also open on Sundays from 14th July to 1st September. The open air site is accessible between dawn and dusk every day except for Christmas day.

When was the last time you visited the ‘Mucky Duck’ at Fradley Junction?

Do you think the people of Paris are up the Eiffel Tower every weekend, or those who live in Athens take time to admire the Acropolis close up? It’s a bit like us living so close to Fradley Junction…we know it’s marvelous, but rarely go to visit. And what better time to do so than early summer when the scenery is at it’s very best.

The Swan, known to all far and wide as the ‘Mucky Duck’, is a friendly, family style pub in a beautiful setting on the crossroads of the Coventry/Trent and Derby canal, which is Fradley Junction. You really ought to rediscover Fradley Junction, ideal for a relaxing day out for dog walkers, ramblers, cyclists and canal boat enthusiasts.

Something for everyone It’s easy to enjoy Fradley Junction with all its colour and tranquility and its nearby nature reserve, which features in a couple of published British Waterways trails, or just sit with a beer (or a cup of tea) and watch the world float by. It’s like Venice off the A38!

Over the past six years Rick & Tracey have resisted the urge to make The Swan into a trendy ‘gastro pub’ and kept it as 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 – it’s a retreat from the hurly burly of everyday life. It has a Sunday Carvery every week 12 noon - 3pm with five meats and fresh vegetables for £10 inc. sweet and coffee. Lunch is served Mon-Sat 12 noon 2.30pm with a full menu available every evening 5.30pm - 9pm.

If your fancy is for traditional and homemade foods then The Swan is the place to enjoy a mixed grill, sirloin steak, beer battered cod, pork-belly & black pepper plus homemade curries and pies. Plus freshly made sandwiches, snacks and much more.

Beer and entertainment 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 of course all your popular ciders and lagers.

And talking of something for everybody – why not call and enjoy the evening entertainment. Every Thursday evening is Folk Night, with Open Mic on Sunday evenings together with other events on throughout the summer months. And something unique is the Curiosity Shop, now open at the rear of the Mucky Duck selling all manner of things where you are welcome to have a mooch-around.

Rick & Tracey extend a warm welcome and suggest you rediscover Fradley Junction and The Swan this weekend.

The Swan at Fradley Junction Canalside eating at its best DE13 7DN Telephone 01283 790330 We are a dog friendly pub

Page 53

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